When spring turns to summer, many people find their bedding becomes too hot for comfort. Before this happens to you, get a jump on warmer weather by replacing your comforter with a lighter-weight, seasonally suitable bedspread. Single-layer bedspreads are available in a variety of materials, thicknesses, and styles.
Materials
Depending on your room's level of insulation and airflow, along with your personal temperature preference and susceptibility to allergies, you can choose among synthetic, wool, feather, or eco-fill filling for your bedspread. When it comes to the fabric, choose natural fibers, such as linen, percale, or cotton, which are lighter and more breathable than synthetic materials. If you are worried about the occasional cool summer breeze lowering the temperature, place a blanket or comforter at the foot of the bed within easy reach.
Colors
When choosing a summer bedspread, consider selecting colors that evoke the season in terms of the weather and vacation scenarios. These include clean whites, which will reflect any sunlight that shines through bedroom windows during the day, and traditional cool colors, such as light blues and greens or even spa blue. Another fitting summer bedspread color scheme is white-and-navy-blue, which conveys a coastal, nautical feeling.
Patterns and Prints
Some prints and patterns better lend themselves to summertime than others. For example, bold oranges and browns are more appropriate for autumn than summer. On the other hand, florals are a popular summer choice, as are other nature prints. If you prefer patterns, consider color combinations that match the season and are on the lighter side, which helps to repel sunlight and keep fabric cool.
Thickness and Weight
Although they are generally much thinner than comforters, bedspreads vary in thickness depending on the type and volume of batting they contain. If you tend to become too warm relatively easily, you are a good candidate for a light, cotton bedspread that is as thin or thinner than the average blanket. Such bedspreads are more for appearances than warmth, giving "hot sleepers" an alternative to a bed made simply with sheets.
One Bedspread Solution
If swapping bedspreads twice a year seems like too much trouble, you could opt for an all-season bedspread. This style of bedspread is actually two pieces that snap together to provide extra insulation during the cooler months. Those who use this solution tend to buy bedspreads in versatile colors, prints, or patterns. Many all-season bedspreads are white for this reason.
Summer Bedding Sets
Some people may find it convenient to buy an entire summer bedding set rather than just a bedspread. These sets typically include matching bedspreads, sheets and pillowcases and are available in prints, patterns and colors that fit the season. They are often only slightly higher in cost than a bedspread alone. These sets appeal to people who don't have time to think about coordinating their bedding.
Accessorize
You don't have to stop with a new summer bedding set. If you like the idea of coordinating your bedroom for the season, consider buying some throws and decorative pillows as well. You can choose colors and patterns that complement your new bedspread, or go for a strategically contrasting look. Either way, accessories are aesthetically pleasing and invite a nap on a summer afternoon.
Size Matters
No matter the size, it is important to buy a bedspread that fits properly. Just because a bedding product is advertised to fit a specific size, like king or queen, doesn't mean it is the right dimensions. Each size may vary slightly in its dimensions. To ensure a snug but proper fit, it is best to measure it yourself.
