In the 18^th century, although usually made from wood, bedframes also started to be constructed using metal. Mattresses were stuffed with cotton and maids and personal valets no longer slept on trundles on the floor. The bed was not used for receiving visitors, but rather as a private space. In the 19^th century, the four-poster beds were less lavish, and metal bedsprings were invented. It was during the 20^th century when the water bed was created, as well as the air, innerspring, and memory foam mattresses, and now in the 20^th century, we are spoilt for choice!

All cotton fabrics share one essential quality: they are moisture-wicking, meaning that, at night, they will absorb any perspiration leaving your body dry and refreshed. Also, they are very easy to care for and don’t require any special dry cleaning treatments. Simply wash your bedding in cool water using mild detergent and tumble dry low. And avoid any bleaching agents.

 In addition to a flat sheet and fitted medical bed sheets, a hospital sheet set may also include a hospital-grade cover to protect the mattress from spills, stains, and other contaminants.  Hospital Sheet Set coverings are typically waterproof and can be easily wiped clean or machine washed, providing an extra layer of protection and hygiene for patients.

These two varieties of cotton are valued for their long staples, or fibers. Long staples are desirable because they are less likely to pill, hold the structure of the weave better, and overall lead to a softer, more durable sheet. If a fabric is made with short staple cotton, it is common for the staples to start to poke out over time, leading to a decrease in the softness and comfort.

Egyptian cotton comes from a different plant (Gossypium Barbadense) to regular cotton, which is why it has different and superior properties. Egyptian cotton has extra long fibres which produce thread or yarns that are thinner and smaller in diameter yet stronger than other cottons. This means that the threads can be woven into a luxurious durable fabric that no other cotton can match.

'Linen is exceptionally breathable and is a go-to for the summer months,' says Aja Tilghman, of Lulu & Georgia. 'It has an airy, breezy quality that will keep you cool and its natural fibers provide an effortlessly elegant look. Cotton percale is also a good option for hot weather as it is inherently cooler in nature and provides a lighter, crispier feel.'

Cotton is a plant that loves warmer weather and it takes several months for it to produce the fluffy cotton balls that we all know. After the plants are harvested, they are defoliated and send to the cotton gin. There, the cotton fibers are combed — this is done for cleaning and fiber straightening purposes — and then spun into yarn.

If you were fortunate to be wealthy in medieval Europe, then you could use your bed to show off your status. Their impressive beds were carved out of wood, raised off the floor, and often encrusted with jewels. Four-poster beds were created during these times, with velvet drapes to keep out the bugs and cold air, and to further show off wealth. However, if you were poor, you slept either on the floor or a small raised platform with hay for a mattress and a scratchy wool blanket.