Whether you're a soon-to-be student or a proud parent packing your child off to university, packing up all the essentials before term starts can be overwhelming. From kitchenware to wireless keyboards, new clothes to notepads, the list of items is endless!

Whilst it makes sense to wait until you're settled into your new digs to buy things like posters or wall hangings, one thing you're guaranteed to need on your first night in a new bedroom is bedding!

To make sure you've covered all bases before heading off to university, we've put together a definitive guide to student bedding essentials.

What bedding do you need to take to university?

The first thing you'll need to make a note of before purchasing any new bedding for your student room is the size of your new bed. Depending on the price of your accommodation, your new room might have a double, small double or single bed. For extra comfort, go up a size with duvets to make sure it drapes nicely around your bed. The welcome pack you receive when signing your contract should have this information inside.

University students often require durable, comfortable, and machine-washable bedding for their rooms. Here are the essential bedding items a university student will need.

1. Pillows and pillowcases 

After a hard day of studying (or a night out at the Student Union bar), you'll need a couple of comfy pillows to rest your head on.

• Memory foam - These pillows contour to the shape of your head and neck, offering comfort and alignment during sleep.
• Feather & down - Known for their softness and plushness, providing a luxurious sleeping experience.
• Hollowfibre - Benefits include anti-snore features and climate control properties for regulating temperature during sleep.
• Anti-allergy - perfect for people with sensitive skin or anyone who is prone to allergic reactions.

To complete your ultimate pillow setup, don't forget to invest in a pack of pillowcases and a few pillow protectors. Opt for materials like cotton or bamboo for their breathability and softness against your skin.

The number of pillows and pillowcases you'll need will depend on the size of your bed. UK singles will need one or two pillows, whilst a double or small double bed will need up to four. We recommend having more than one pillowcase per pillow so that you have a spare set each time you come to wash your bedding.

2. Duvet and duvet covers

Next on our list of bedding essentials is the duvet. Whilst some Universities may provide the duvet for you, you may still want to choose your own so you can make sure it's the right thickness and tog rating. 

When it comes to selecting a duvet, there are several filling options. These include:

• Synthetic fill - This is often made from polyester or polyester blends and offers affordability, hypoallergenic properties, and easy maintenance.
• Down alternative fill - Down alternative duvets mimic the softness and warmth of natural down without using animal products.
• Natural down fill - Natural down duvets provide exceptional insulation and a luxurious feel. They are lightweight, breathable and offer excellent warmth.
• Wool fill - This material provides natural temperature regulation, moisture-wicking properties and can be a great option for individuals seeking sustainable bedding choices due to wool's renewable and biodegradable nature.

The tog rating indicates the warmth level of a duvet. For colder climates or those who prefer extra warmth, higher tog ratings like 10-13 are suitable. Lower tog ratings like 4-7.5 are ideal for warmer climates or summer use. 

For those seeking versatile bedding options that can adapt to different seasons, you could also opt for an all year round duvet. Also known as 'combi duvets,' these offer versatility with two separate pieces: a 4.5 Tog duvet for warmer nights, and a 9.0 Tog duvet for moderate warmth in spring and autumn. Combining both duvets during winter provides a total warmth level of 13.5 Tog for year-round comfort

Next, every duvet needs a duvet cover! Cotton is the perfect choice for uni students as it is easy to wash, breathable and widely available. Your duvet cover is your chance to personalise your student room, too. Go pretty in pink with a floral pattern, or keep things simple with a black, grey or white design.

If you buy a bedding pack, your duvet cover will likely be included, along with matching pillowcases and a fitted sheet. Note that if you want to have a double duvet on a single bed, it's probably better to buy each item separately rather than in a pack since the fitted sheet will be too large. Additionally, for a hassle-free bedding experience, you could also consider coverless duvets, which eliminate the need for separate duvet covers and can be easily washed and dried. 

3. Bed sheets and bedding sets 

Choosing the right bed linen for your new student room is important for ensuring you get a good night's sleep. The main thing to remember is you'll need to select bedding that is the right size - you don't want to be stuck trying to fit a single sheet onto a double bed!

The two best materials for student bedding tend to be cotton and microfibre.

• Cotton sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers are popular for their breathability, softness, and durability. Egyptian cotton and Supima cotton are known for their exceptional quality, while combed or organic cotton sheets offer cosiness and are better for the environment.
• Microfibre sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers are made from a synthetic fabric and offer easy maintenance, wrinkle resistance, and softness. They can be a practical choice if you're on a tighter student budget!

If you want premium-quality bed linen, look for a bedding pack with a higher thread count. This will feel more luxurious and last longer than cheaper alternatives. An added bonus is the fact that a bedding pack will have a coordinated duvet cover, fitted sheet, and pillowcases, so your student bedroom will be the envy of your friends!

4. Mattress toppers and protectors 

Student beds are notoriously uncomfortable, so investing in a mattress topper can make a world of difference. Whether you go for a memory foam, hollowfibre or cooling mattress topper, the cushioning materials will add extra comfort and support.

To help keep your new mattress topper clean, consider getting a mattress protector, too. This will protect it from any spills or stains, making sure it stays feeling fresh all year.

At Sleepseeker, we have a fantastic range of mattress toppers and protectors at price points to suit student budgets of all sizes. Browse through our selection of double and single toppers to find the one that's right for you.

5. Scatter cushions, blankets and throws 

Cushions, blankets and throws add a personal touch to any room and will make your student bedroom feel homely. Our top tip is to choose soft furnishings in neutral colours like grey, white and cream, as these will match the design of your new bedroom and bedding pack. If you have a single bed, you could get a double blanket and fold it in half for extra warmth.

If your flatmates aren't fans of putting the heating on to save money, an electric blanket can be a worthwhile investment. Options like the Slumberdown Sleepy Nights Electric Blanket go underneath your bedding and make your bed wonderfully cosy on even the coldest of nights!

How to get a good night's sleep as a student

1. Consistent sleep schedule - Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends! This will help to ensure you get the rest you need to ace your uni exams.
2. Wind-down activities - Engage in calming activities before bed, such as reading a book or listening to soothing music.
3. Build a relaxing environment - Keep your bedroom clutter-free and choose comfortable bedding essentials that will help you sleep soundly. Having machine-washable sheets and duvet covers will make it far easier for you to keep your bed clean and fresh!
4. Control the temperature - The temperature of your bedroom has a huge effect on your sleep quality. Opt for a climate control duvet and bed linen pack to prevent overheating.
5. Choose soft lighting - Proper lighting plays a crucial role in regulating your sleep-wake cycle. Use soft, warm lighting or bedside lamps to create a soothing atmosphere before bedtime. Avoid using screens like phones or laptops at least an hour before bed, as the blue light emitted by these devices can interfere with your natural sleep patterns.

FAQs 

How often should I wash my bedding?

Ideally, wash your sheets, pillowcases and duvet cover once a week. This will keep your bed clean, fresh and perfect for some well-earned relaxation after studying! Most bedding packs are machine-washable at 40 degrees, but you should always check the label before putting them on their first wash. 

Note that bedding in bright or dark colours like black, blue, red and purple might run into other garments when washed.

How can I make my student room bed more comfortable on a budget?

There are several budget-friendly ways to make your student room's bed more comfortable, including:

1. Invest in a mattress topper if your mattress is too hard or unsupportive.
2. Buy a bedding pack rather than sourcing each bedding item separately.
3. Select a warm but breathable duvet like a wool duvet to ensure you don't get too hot or cold in bed.
4. Consider an electric blanket to stay extra cosy, especially if your heating bills aren't included in your rent!
5. Think about aesthetics - choose bedding in a style that you like and will want to use year after year.

Can I use a mattress topper on a student room mattress?

Yes, you can use a mattress topper on the mattress in your student accommodation. It can be a great way to enhance the comfort and support of the bed in your room. Just be sure to check the bed size so you can choose one that will fit.

What are some affordable storage solutions for bedding in a small space?

When it comes to storing bedding in a small space, under-bed storage boxes or bags are ideal. These will keep extra blankets, pillows and bedding packs out of the way but still easily accessible. You can use vacuum packs for spare bed linen, duvets, and pillows, placing them on top of your room's wardrobe, under your desk, or in any bathroom cupboards. This practical solution helps maximize space and keeps your bedding items organized and protected.

Find the right bedding essentials for students from Sleepseeker

Starting university can be scary, but the search for the perfect bedding for your new home doesn't have to be! At Sleepseeker, we have a huge range of pillows, duvets, mattress protectors and toppers to ensure your student experience is the best it can be.

Browse through bedding options for double, small double and UK single beds to find all the essentials you'll need to get off to the best start. Shop online today for free standard UK delivery on most orders.

For more guides on our bedding sets and essentials, check out the pages below:

How To Choose A Duvet: Find Out What's Best For You

How Often Should You Change Your Pillows?

How To Choose The Right Mattress Topper

Best Pillow For Side And Back Sleepers