15 Tropical Bedding

Comforter, Duvet Cover or Quilt:

These are the most noticeable of all possible bed linens, and should reflect your tropical style (and be comfy too, of course!). There are several different options, depending on your warmth needs and design preferences.

• Comforters: Most quality comforters and duvets are rated based on a tog rating and filling. This is a measurement of its weight, softness and warmth. The higher the tog rating, the warmer it will be. Comforters are usually filled with a natural or synthetic material. Natural fillings (such as down), are usually much better at trapping heat than synthetic materials. They often come as a set or with a bed-in-a-bag option, which is typically more affordable since it includes everything you might need.

• Duvet Covers: Essentially a pillowcase for your comforter, duvet covers come in a variety of fabric options, and are usually secured at the end with ties, buttons, zippers or velcro. The covers can easily be taken off and washed, which makes laundry day a little bit easier.

• Quilts: A quilt can either stand alone as is it's own bed linen or complement a comforter or duvet. This option might not be as fluffy and full as the other two, but it is fairly warm since the material is so dense. Since many quilts tend to have a homemade look, they add a nice personal touch.

Bed Pillows and Shams:

Choosing a good bed pillow can make or break your night's sleep. The best way to pick a good pillow is to try out several different styles, and then stick with what you know. Fill materials, support, cover material and size are all important considerations. There are virtually endless combinations, and each person is different, so make sure you test out whether down, goose feather or memory foam works best for you.

Shams, which are decorative pillow covers, are usually a stylistic choice and should complement the rest of your tropical bedding. Much like sheets, many bedding sets include them to ensure a matched look, but if you buy them separately, make sure they actually fit the pillows you've purchased.