9 Ways to Create A Sleep Sanctuary In Your Bedroom

How many of your best days started with a great night’s sleep?

That’s because getting eight hours of sleep every night can dramatically improve your quality of life. A good night’s rest makes you less irritable, gives you more energy, helps you learn better, improves your physical health, evens out your moods and more.

This also means that a lack of sleep can have dire effects. The American Sleep Association (ASA) reports that 50 to 70 million U.S. adults have a sleep disorder, with one-third of Americans experiencing insomnia and about 25 millions of adults experiencing sleep apnea.

But you can get better sleep … through decor. Creating a sleep sanctuary in your bedroom will help you relax after a long day, helping you get better, more sound sleep. Here’s how:

It All Begins with the Sheets

There’s no better feeling than climbing into a bed that has fresh sheets after you take your evening shower. Using high-quality materials for your sheets not only means that they’ll last longer, but they’ll feel so comfy that you won’t want to get out of bed.

Thread count is not as important as we’ve been told to believe. You should be looking at the length of your sheet’s fiber.

“The longer the fiber, the longer it will last. Long-staple cotton is best because it creates longer and finer yarns. You can have a high thread count with short fibers that will break down faster and not last as long,” ABC Home’s senior merchandising team Newell and Beierholm told Vogue.

And then there are the pillows you get just for fun. You have your choice of textures when it comes to pillows. There’s silk, fur, yarn, etc., so you can get wild with it if you like.

Your Bedroom Scent Makes a Difference

Different scents can affect you in several ways. Lavender, lemongrass and vanilla are all proven to create a relaxing atmosphere. You can use automatic air sprays or essential oil diffusers to fill your bedroom with those calming scents.

Better Sleep is Just a Mattress Pad Away

If you want your bed to be more comfortable, but don’t want to buy a new mattress, a mattress topper can do the trick. They’re affordable and it’s amazing the difference they can make.

Bring the Water to You

Meditation fountains exist for a reason. The gentle sound of running water can help you drift off into a stress-free state. Small indoor fountains are compact and add to your décor. They can also help block out any unwelcome nighttime sounds, which is especially helpful if you live in the city.

It’s All About Pillows, Pillows and More Pillows

Having the right pillows can be the difference between what feels like sleeping on nails and sleeping on clouds. Choosing the right pillow depends on what you’re looking for. Sleep on your side? Choose a side pillow or body pillow. Have back or neck problems? Use a memory foam pillow to keep your spine aligned.

Keep It Clean

It can be hard to unwind in a messy room. Having storage space for everything in your bedroom can help you keep your bedroom clean. Use a bench at the foot of the bed to store your duvets and sheets — and it can double as a sleeping space for your dog or cat. (Though it’s advised that pets shouldn’t sleep in your room, due to allergies and pet dander.)

Throws are Your Best Friend

If bedroom sheets and duvets had a baby, it would be a throw. They are not as heavy as a duvet, but keeps you warm. Use fleece throws for extra comfort.

Put Down a Rug

If you have hardwood floors, there’s a good chance that your floors get extra cold during the winter. A cozy rug can make your bedroom feel warmer so that you’re not shivering by the time you get into bed — and will save your feet if you wake up for a glass of water.

Get a Down Comforter or Keep It Cool

Speaking of warmth, a down comforter is hands-down one of the best ways to keep warm during cold, winter nights. Nothing says sleep sanctuary more than being under a plush down comforter.

And for the warmer months, make sure your bedroom is anywhere between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Fans and the right sheets can help keep you cool at night.