Everybody knows that once you make your bed, you have to lie in it. This means that it’s helpful to understand how to make a bed in a way that promotes good sleep. Here are some tips.

Check the state of your bed

At least twice a year, take everything off your bed and check its condition. In particular, check the sleeping area and the legs. If your bed is damaged, then you need to make a judgment call on whether you can fix it or whether it’s time for a new one. 

If you do decide to go for a new bed, then you might want to look at getting an adjustable one. These do carry a price premium but it can be worth it for many nights of better sleep. 

Make sure you turn your mattress

This really does make a difference both to your comfort and to the longevity of your mattress. Turn your mattress top to bottom as well as side to side. 

If you sleep beside a partner, you could look at getting a mattress with separate sleep zones. That way you can both get exactly what you want for a perfect night’s sleep. 

Put a cover on your mattress

Even if you have a brand-new, top-quality mattress, a cover can add an extra level of comfort and hygiene. It can also extend the life of your mattress. Basically, treat mattress covers as small investments that can make a big difference. 

Mattress covers can also be an economical approach to making a single mattress work for two people with different tastes in sleep comfort. 

Use the right sheets for the season

In warmer weather, cotton and linen are generally the best choices. They are breathable and so help to keep “night sweats” to a minimum. 

In cooler weather, fleece sheets tend to be your best option. Good-quality ones offer excellent insulation. This makes the most of your own body heat and hence keeps you cozy even when the main heating is switched off. 

Move your pillows to support your back

When you’re awake, it’s fine to have your pillows propping up your head. When you’re asleep, however, your pillows should be supporting the natural curve of your back. This may mean that you actually need them at your legs and stomach rather than your head. 

Of course, there’s a difference between putting pillows in the right places before you go to sleep and keeping them there while you are asleep. If you’re a restless sleeper then an adjustable bed could be by far your best option. 

Choose your covers with care

You want to put on enough heat but not too much. This can be tricky because your body temperature will drop as you sleep. One option is to have an electric blanket with a timer to give the heating a bit of a boost when you need it most. Again, if you sleep with a partner, choose one with zones.

If none of this works

If your bed is made perfectly but you’re still having problems sleeping, then it could be that you need to look at your pre-bedtime habits. It’s possible that you simply need to do more to set yourself up for sleep. Alternatively, it may mean that you would benefit from a natural sleep aid, such as essential oils or herbal remedies.