Dear Alice | Interior Design

Episode: How to Make the Perfect Bed

Release Date: January 23, 2025
Hosts: Jessica Bennett and Suzanne Hall
Description:
In this episode of Dear Alice, interior design experts Jessica Bennett and Suzanne Hall delve into the art of making the perfect bed. Combining their extensive experience with a touch of personal anecdotes, they provide listeners with actionable tips and insights to transform their bedrooms into serene sanctuaries.

1. Introduction to the Perfect Bed

Jessica and Suzanne kick off the episode by emphasizing the importance of a well-made bed, both aesthetically and functionally. They acknowledge the common struggle many face in replicating the showroom-perfect beds seen in stores.

Jessica [01:00]: "There’s a lot of ways to skin a cat, and we're just going to tell you our favorite way."

Suzanne reassures listeners that the method they'll share is simple and adaptable to various preferences, ensuring that everyone can achieve a beautifully made bed without the fuss.

2. Personal Stories: First Bedding Experiences

The hosts share nostalgic memories about their first experiences with their own bedding, highlighting the emotional connection and personal significance of choosing one’s own sheets and blankets.

Jessica:
Reflects on the excitement of purchasing her first set of bedding, contrasting it with the often impersonal or mismatched items received in childhood.

Jessica [03:19]: "When you grow up, you're kind of just like. You get leftovers... but getting your own bedding was a big deal."

Suzanne:
Recounts her college days, detailing the challenges of staying warm in a dorm room and the overwhelming experience of choosing the right duvet.

Suzanne [05:25]: "I got buried alive in this thing. If you think about weighted blankets, that duvet was like a coffin on top of my body."

3. Choosing the Right Sheets

The conversation shifts to selecting the perfect sheets, with a focus on material, color, and durability.

Suzanne:
Advocates for linen sheets, specifically highlighting Libeco's Santiago white linen sheets for their softness and longevity.

Suzanne [10:07]: "We're getting white sheets from Libeco. They get softer the more you wash them and look great for years."

Jessica:
Shares her experience experimenting with colored sheets, advising listeners to stick with white for versatility and timelessness.

Jessica [10:39]: "Don’t do colored sheets. Feel free to add color elsewhere but keep your sheets white."

4. The Ideal Quilt and Duvet

The hosts discuss the layers that contribute to a perfect bed, starting with quilts and duvets.

Suzanne:
Introduces the Louisa Coverlet, praising its generous size and versatile design that complements various bedroom styles.

Suzanne [20:43]: "Louisa is really generous, and so you can actually tuck it in or let it drape beautifully."

Jessica:
Emphasizes the importance of choosing the right duvet insert, advocating for oversized inserts to ensure a full, fluffy appearance.

Jessica [27:21]: "You're gonna get it. They're called an oversized king or an oversized queen duvet insert. They fit perfectly and are really lofty."

5. Pillows and Decorative Shams

Pillows play a crucial role in the bed's aesthetics and comfort. The hosts elaborate on their preferred pillow arrangements.

Suzanne:
Recommends using oversized Euro shams combined with a lumbar pillow for a chic and functional look.

Suzanne [33:08]: "The Dutch Euros have quickly become the new it pillow for the bed. They’re so comfortable and cover the shelf of sleeping pillows beautifully."

Jessica:
Shares tips on stacking pillows to create a visually appealing shelf without overwhelming the bed with too many decorative pieces.

Jessica [38:05]: "Two sleeping pillows stacked too high and then we just have the lumbar in front. It's so chic."

6. Additional Bedding Tips

The duo offers bonus tips to enhance the bed-making process, ensuring both beauty and practicality.

Suzanne:
Discusses the Z fold technique for arranging duvets and blankets, making them easy to manage and aesthetically pleasing.

Suzanne [31:37]: "The Z fold is when you fold it in thirds. It allows you to easily pull it up and put it back without hassle."

Jessica:
Highlights the significance of a low-profile box spring in achieving a seamless bed look, pointing out that it often solves common bed appearance issues.

Jessica [41:21]: "If your bed isn't looking right, the wrong box spring might be the culprit. Opt for a low-profile one to fix the entire look."

7. Troubleshooting Common Bed-Making Issues

The hosts address frequently encountered problems, such as mismatched duvet inserts and the visibility of box springs.

Suzanne:
Explains the difference between standard and oversized duvet inserts, recommending the latter for a fuller and more luxurious bed appearance.

Suzanne [29:18]: "Oversized duvets provide the loft and fluff you need without the bulk that makes you feel too hot."

Jessica:
Offers a solution for duvet inserts that do not fit properly, emphasizing the importance of fresh down and proper sizing.

Jessica [30:58]: "Get yourself an oversized insert that fits perfectly. It’s a chore, but worth it for the comfort and look."

8. Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Jessica and Suzanne wrap up the episode by summarizing the essential elements of making the perfect bed. They encourage listeners to invest in quality sheets, quilts, duvets, and pillows, and to pay attention to details like box springs and bedding arrangements.

Suzanne [42:40]: "It’s not difficult to make the perfect bed. You might just need the right box spring, new fills, or white sheets with a coverlet."

They also remind listeners about their ongoing Sweet Sale, offering 20% off on all bedroom categories, and invite them to share episode ideas and leave reviews.

Jessica [42:40]: "Check out Alehome.com for our Sweet Sale, everything for the bedroom is 20% off. Start your year right with better sleep."

Notable Quotes

• Jessica [01:00]: "There’s a lot of ways to skin a cat, and we're just going to tell you our favorite way."
• Suzanne [05:25]: "I got buried alive in this thing. If you think about weighted blankets, that duvet was like a coffin on top of my body."
• Jessica [10:39]: "Don’t do colored sheets. Feel free to add color elsewhere but keep your sheets white."
• Suzanne [20:43]: "Louisa is really generous, and so you can actually tuck it in or let it drape beautifully."
• Jessica [27:21]: "You're gonna get it. They're called an oversized king or an oversized queen duvet insert. They fit perfectly and are really lofty."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Dear Alice serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to elevate their bedroom's comfort and style. By blending professional advice with personal stories, Jessica and Suzanne make the process of bed-making both relatable and achievable. Whether you're a design enthusiast or someone seeking practical solutions, this episode offers valuable insights to help you create the perfect bed and, consequently, a more restful night.