How to Perfectly Layer and Make Your Dorm Bed (With All the Essentials)
Setting up a cozy, comfortable dorm bed is key to making college life feel a bit more like home. Dorm mattresses can be pretty basic (and let’s face it, not the most comfortable), so adding the right layers can make all the difference.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect dorm bed setup for a good night’s sleep. Plus, I’ll share some product recommendations from Amazon that can help you achieve that dreamy, hotel-like comfort!
1. Start with the Mattress Encasing
Dorm mattresses have seen a lot of use, has an ick factor to use it own it’s own. So it’s essential to start with a mattress encasement. This encasement wraps fully around the mattress, providing a layer of protection from allergens, dust mites, and any less-than-ideal stuff that may have accumulated over time. A zippered encasement keeps everything sealed and adds peace of mind for you.
Product Recommendations:
- Mattress encasement by Hospitology: This is our most popular and highly recommended encasement. It’s the only one which comes in 6-8 inches low profile and is ideal for a dorm mattress without the extra spillage. A dorm provided mattress is usually 6-8 inches high.
- Utopia Bedding Zippered Mattress Encasement: Here is another popular waterproof and bed bug proof mattress encasement.
2. Add a Foam Topper
Most dorm mattresses are thin and not exactly plush after years of use. Adding a foam topper gives an instant boost of comfort and helps relieve pressure on your back, shoulders, and hips. Memory foam toppers are a popular choice since they contour to your body for a better night’s sleep.
Foam topper come in three different heights which decides the softness of your bed; two inch, three inch and four inches high. If you are used to sleeping on a firm mattress then go with the two inch topper and if you lean towards extra plushiness then 4 inch topper should be your choice. We always say:
Think Goldilocks and go for a three inch topper which will be just right!
Product Recommendations:
- Lucid memory foam toppers: The most popular and often sold out 3 inch foam topper.
- Linenspa Gel infused memory foam topper: A great option to give your the cooling effect of a gel foam topper.
- Sleepyhead Foam toppers: If you are looking for the best of the best…then Sleepyhead foam toppers should be your go to choice. It’s pricier than the other two but no one has ever regretted buying a sleepyhead topper.
3. Protect with a Mattress Protector
Next we add a mattress protector for two reasons. One to keep your foam topper and mattress safe from spills, stains, and sweat. Secondly; to keep everything together. Your mattress protector will encompass your foam topper and your encased dorm mattress so your topper doesn’t slip. It’s also another layer of cleanliness, which is always a good idea in a shared space like a dorm room. Look for a waterproof and breathable option that doesn’t crinkle or shift around.
Product Recommendations:
- Bedsure Twin XL Mattress Pad: A soft and breathable option for you if you are a hot sleeper. Also adds a layer of cushion to make your bed more comfortable.
- GRT Twin XL Waterproof Mattress Pad: It’s a waterproof option for your bed which doesn’t crinkle.
4. Finish with Cozy Bedding
Now comes the fun part—adding your bedding! A soft fitted sheet, a cozy duvet or comforter, and some throw pillows will make your dorm bed feel like your personal sanctuary. Choose bedding that fits Twin XL mattresses (a common dorm bed size) and colors or patterns that make you happy. This is where you can get creative with your style.
Product Recommendations:
- coming up
5. Optional: Throw Blanket and Pillows
Add a throw blanket and a few decorative pillows to give your bed a cozy, personalized touch. Not only do they look nice, but they’re perfect for extra warmth during those late-night study sessions or movie marathons in bed.
Product Recommendations:
Bedsure Soft Throw Blanket: The comfiest of all the throw blankets out there.
With these layers, your dorm bed will go from basic to blissful in no time! The key is layering for comfort and protection, so you can sleep well without worrying about dorm mattress mysteries.
