I Review Bedding for a Living, And Here's Everything I Use on My Actual Bed
PureWow Editors select every item that appears on this page,, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story You can learn more about that process here. Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.
Read the original article on Purewow.
Let's talk bedrooms. Since it’s kind of my job to test swoon-worthy bedding—from mattresses to sheets to blankets— people often ask what I use on my own bed (tough gig, I know). But before PureWow, I spent years working with high-end interior designers who taught me one thing: a bedroom should be the personification of what you love most. For me, that's all things cozy, quirky and nostalgically historic. And beyond aesthetics, I learned how to source luxurious, lasting materials that endure season after season. So below, find a rundown of everything on my bed, plus how I brought the look together.
How I Selected My Bedding
Sydney Meister for PureWow
Before I start browsing for comforters and throw pillows, I like to treat bedroom design like a hot fudge sundae. The bedding is the ice cream (a crucial foundation), the artwork and lighting are the hot fudge (indulgent essentials), and the decor is the cherry on top. From there, I decided to work backward, starting with the decor. I wanted to create a New York eclectic vibe that was reminiscent of my grandparents' apartment on 89th and York. I’m also obsessed with all things black/white and furry—see: my Sheepadoodle named George—so a New Yorker print with sheepdogs and a fluffy cow named Moo were obligatory touches.
Once I had my cows and color palette in place, I could focus on the foundation. The most important consideration when it came to bedding was my sleep style. As a side-sleeper, I knew I needed a mattress and pillows that would spinal support without making me feel achy (aka medium-firm). I’m also someone who tends to run hot at night, so cooling materials—like gel foam and breathable linen and cotton—were essential. So below, find every bedding item I use, plus why they’re best for a hot side-sleeper like me.
Everything I Have on My Bed at a Glance
1. Casper Wave Hybrid Snow Mattress
This mattress has been a game-changer. It combines medium ergonomic support with advanced cooling technology, and I can back that it delivers on both fronts. It’s plush under my shoulders, so I can really sink in, yet it’s also firm enough to prevent hip and lower back pain. Plus, according to the brand, it uses proprietary ‘Snow’ tech that makes the mattress feel six degrees cooler—and I’ve definitely noticed a difference. The temperature-regulating foam has made a noticeable impact on my night sweats, and I no longer look like I came from a sauna session when I wake up.
2. Purple Harmony Pillow
While I’ve tested dozens of sleep pillows, I always return to the Purple Harmony. This is for a few reasons. First, because it comes in two sizes and three different height options (I went with the standard medium option). The medium height has been perfect for side-sleeping, and I love how it never falls flat. This is thanks to Purple’s signature Honeycomb GelFlex Grid, which is topped with luxurious Talalay Latex. It conforms to my head and neck the moment I lie down, but it never falls flat—the ultra-durable materials ensure it bounces right back up the moment I lift my head. Plus, the cooling technology is fantastic. The GelFlex and latex combo are aerated, so it doesn’t trap heat, and the moisture-wicking mesh cover helps keeps the pillow cool all night long.
3. Brooklinen Down Comforter
When I was on the hunt for the best down comforter, I wanted something super-fluffy for that just-out-of-a-catalog look but lightweight enough not to feel suffocated. This comforter passed both requirements with flying colors. It gives my bed a cozy, sink-into-me aesthetic while keeping me cool and comfortable all night long. It’s also worth noting that the comforter is available in three weights—lightweight, all-season and ultra-warm—and each is distinguished by its fill power. I opted for the lightweight version, which boasts a 650-fill power with European goose and duck down. It’s been perfect for fall and winter (since I prefer to sleep under my quilt during warmer months).
4. Piglet in a Bed Oatmeal Linen Duvet Cover
I adore the relaxed, organic look of linen, and this oatmeal-toned duvet cover fits seamlessly with my cozy aesthetic. The natural texture and slightly rumpled appearance add a touch of effortless sophistication—and it’s held up beautifully in the wash. Not to mention that linen is a top cooling material for hot sleepers, and this one has been highly breathable while keeping my temperature regulated. Between the understated elegance and practicality of linen, it’s made for an excellent addition to my bedding ensemble.
5. Matouk Sierra Hemstitch Sheets
After seeing this brand in 5-star resorts like Topping Rose House and The Crosby Hotel, I knew I needed to get my hands on a set from Matouk. And while the price is admittedly exorbitant (the flat sheet starts at $149 alone), I say it’s worth every penny if you’re looking for investment-worthy sheets. They’re about as cooling—and long-lasting—as you can get, thanks to the 350-thread-count cotton percale. In fact, it almost combines the crisp, fresh feel of cotton with a lavish smoothness that borders on silky. I have yet to find myself kicking the top sheet off, and on the rare occasion I wake up sweaty, it quickly absorbs and dried on the surface.
6. The Citizenry Naya Quilted Bed Blanket
While I came for the design of this quilt, I stayed for how much I love it during the summer months. Not only do the tonal stitched lines bring playful sophistication but its stone blue hue also makes an anchor in my eclectic color scheme. Then, as my absolute go-to for summer, its lightweight, breathable cotton ensures I stay cool on particularly hot nights. The oversized 90-by-90-inch dimensions provide ample coverage, which has also been great for when I share the bed with a midnight sheets-hogger. Not to mention that it’s been durable in the wash, though I do recommend keeping it away from kids or pets who are likely to make a mess.
7. Jenni Kayne Alpaca Basketweave Throw
My first thought when I laid my hands on this alpaca basketweave? This is what luxury feels like. The 50-by-70-inch throw is made from a high-end blend of alpaca and merino wool, offering a Goldilocks level of warmth—not too thin, not too thick. Its handwoven, basketweave construction also adds a super-soft feel that’s perfect for cozying up in the winter. And of course, the earthy neutral color options are a hit, where my cocoa hue fits perfectly with the rest of my organic tones.
8. Pom Pom at Home Montauk Big Pillow
This pillow from Pom Pom at Home is a designer's dream (and many designers I’ve worked with are big fans of the brand). First, because it measures at a generous 26 by 26 inches, so its substantial size can fill gaps and prevent sparse-looking pillow arrangements. Then, it also has a 100 percent hand-loomed, heavy-weight linen that features a ½-inch flange. This not only gives it a rich linen texture with an intricate woven design, but it also makes the ivory finish feel interesting instead of boring and flat. It’s arguably the most essential component to bringing together my bed’s layered, luxurious look.
9. Pom Pom at Home Hendrick Pillow
Yet another essential from Pom Pom at Home, this 14-inch by 14-inch throw is another stunning addition. It’s crafted from 100 percent cotton, though it has more of a refined texture that almost looks vintage without the dirty subtext. The deep navy color also adds a crucial pop of color, where it seamlessly brings together the various blue and gray tones in the rest of my bedding. I also love how it’s a rich, navy hue that really stands out from the rest of the neutrals. It offers enough visual contrast to draw the eye while still tying in beautifully with the eclectic orange and brown hues I have beside it.
10. Lina Cavalieri Artificial Linen Throw Pillow Case
Last but certainly not least, you have my favorite piece in the bedding arrangement. As much as I love all things Fornasetti—the brand’s pieces double as artwork that commands your attention—they’re also ridiculously expensive. So, three years ago when I moved to New York, I shelled out $13 for an Amazon lookalike (and $8 for a matching pillow insert). Not only has it held up beautifully in the wash but I’m still in love with this woman’s striking beauty and coquettish finger to the lip. I feel like it exudes my ‘no one talk to me’ energy after a long day, and I love how it adds a dramatic flair to the rest of my solid-colored bed accessories.
Why You Should Trust Us
PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
