![white bedding in light and bright bedroom](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QkUMKfrKvTvPT66UJy9uqX-415-80.jpg)
Crisp white cotton sheets are a classic. After all, white bedding goes with literally everything while providing a blank canvas for decorative pillows and blankets.
62% of us say we don't sleep as well as we'd like – could our bedding be to blame? Sleep experts argue that fresh white bedding could negatively impact the quality of our slumber by reducing our melatonin levels. So what's the best bedding color to go for?
Sleep expert's white bedding tip
'Color matters,' asserts Sleep Expert, Dorothy Chambers from SleepJunkie. 'The sheet color choices for your bedroom may seem like only a cosmetic preference, but it can really influence how well you sleep.
'Stay away from whites and blues as it’s thought these colors might affect melatonin levels,' Dorothy warns. Melatonin is a hormone primarily released by the pineal gland in response to darkness, and it governs our circadian rhythms (our 24-hour body clock).
So it makes sense that bright white and the color of the sky would conflict with this sleepy hormone that is produced in the evening. Dorothy Chambers argues that shades in the yellow, orange, red and black families are best.
Although, we'd suggest picking whatever color bedding feels the most like a big hug – perhaps a sumptuous pink or dark navy, like this luxurious set from La Redoute. 'Darker hues such as inky blues, earth tones, or deep greens can give a very cozy effect and can help you feel cocooned by your bedding,' comments Founder & Creative Director of Bedfolk, Jo James.
James Higgins, CEO of Ethical Bedding and expert in bedding cites the largest global color study that saw 29,596 people take part. This research found that blue and green hues have the most relaxing and calming effect on the brain.
Join our newsletter
Get the best home decor ideas, DIY advice and project inspiration straight to your inbox!
Climbing into a forest green bed does sound pretty dreamy. Dunelm's pure cotton duvet in peacock looks like a good option.
Whatever you go for, think not only about how the color will look but how it might affect you as you drift off. If you're serious about improving your sleep quality this year, investing in the best mattress for your sleep style is essential.
Will you be steering clear of white bedsheets?
Millie joined Real Homes in early 2021 as a homes news writer. When she isn't writing about trends, makeovers and houseplant care, she spends her free time making tweaks to her rented flat in North London. Her next project is a very basic armchair reupholstering job to help create a cosy reading nook in her living room. She loves browsing antique centres, tending to her small front garden, and is never without some fresh flowers at home.
-
8 white and gold kitchen ideas and how embrace this luxe look
A stylish look for those who love an elegant scheme, our white and gold kitchen ideas will inspire you to give it a go
By Sophie Warren-Smith Published
-
Are gray kitchens out of date? We get the low-down from design experts
They've been popular for many years, but are gray kitchens out of date now? We delve in
By Sophie Warren-Smith Published
-
The TEMPUR-Adapt mattress topper is a dreamy combo of cushion and support
The TEMPUR-Adapt mattress topper provides excellent pressure relief, and is suitable for side, back, and stomach sleepers.
By Paige Cerulli Published
-
What is the happiest color for a small bedroom? Here's what experts recommend for a dopamine boost
Paint pros from Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams shell out their picks and style advice
By Danielle Valente Published
-
How to make a small bedroom cozy — designers reveal their non-negotiable rules
From layering to lighting, here's how to make a small bedroom cozy, all while keeping it functional
By Danielle Valente Published
-
The Urban Outfitters bedding sale makes me want to cancel my Friday night plans
Including an item that's gone from $130 to under $30!
By Christina Chrysostomou Published
-
How to make a bed more comfortable — without buying a new one
Goodbye, lumpy mattresses. The time is nigh for learning how to make a bed more comfortable with these six tweaks
By Beth Mahoney Last updated
-
The freestanding bath in this dreamy bedroom is sheer five-star luxury
And the perfect space if you're into blue and pink
By Ellen Finch Published
-
Bedding in a bag for people who hate buying sheets separately (it's me, I'm people)
Your lazy girl guide
By Louise Oliphant Published
-
Best bamboo bed sheets — 9 sets tested by us and loved by shoppers
Get your coziest set-up ever with the best bamboo bed sheets on the market
By Louise Oliphant Last updated