Bedding

What decides the choice

A duvet is rated in tog, a measure of how well it keeps warmth in. Around 4.5 tog suits summer, 10.5 is a common weight for spring and autumn, and 13.5 is for cold bedrooms in winter. Many duvets are sold as two layers that clip together, which gives you a light, a medium and a warm weight from one purchase. Choose by the temperature of your bedroom and how warm you sleep, not by the highest number available.

The filling changes how that warmth feels. Down and feather are light for their warmth and breathe well, and they need airing and careful washing. Synthetic fillings such as microfibre can usually be washed at home at a higher temperature, which matters to people with a dust mite allergy. A comforter, the American name for a thick quilted bed cover, is usually used without a separate cover and is washed as a whole.

For sheets and covers, the fibre and the weave matter more than thread count. Thread count is the number of threads in a square inch of fabric, and beyond a few hundred a higher figure often comes from thinner, twisted threads rather than better fabric. Percale is a plain weave that feels crisp and cool; sateen has a smoother surface with a slight sheen and feels warmer. Linen softens noticeably with every wash.