Choosing the right duvet and pillow can transform your bed into a cosy sanctuary - the ideal place to snuggle, relax and escape to. 

There are many different duvets and pillows available, so whether it's summer or winter, Eiderdown or Hypoallergenic, plump or thin you're after, Sainsbury's has what you're looking for. 

Our duvets are available in four sizes to fit the range of beds we sell: 

Tog is the unit used for measuring the thermal resistance, or warmth, of a duvet. The higher the tog value the warmer the duvet. Because natural filings like feathers trap more air than synthetic fillings, less filling is required to achieve the same level of warmth. As a guide: 

Combination duvets consist of two duvets and ensure year round comfort. They usually comprise of a 4.5 and 9 tog duvet, which can be separated in the summer or used together in the colder months to provide 13.5 togs of warmth. If you choose a natural combination always put the lighter weight duvet on top so that it doesn’t get compressed.

Natural filings: filled with feathers, down (the soft plumage on a bird’s chest and belly) or a combination of the two. Duck and goose down are most common, with goose being the more luxurious and voluminous.

Natural feather and down duvets allow the skin to breathe; they keep their shape well and if looked after properly can last for years. Lighter than their synthetic equivalents, they trap air in thousands of tiny air pockets so keep cold air out and warm air in. Most are stitched to create pockets, which prevents clumps of filling at one end.

Please note: most natural duvets must be professionally dry cleaned.

Synthetic fillings: come in a variety of densities and consist of hollow fibres of polyester or polyester microfibre, which are non-allergenic so suit asthma and allergy sufferers. All synthetic fibre duvets can be laundered at 60°C, to kill dust-mites and bed-bugs. They have an average lifespan of 10 years.

Over time, a pillow's level of support deteriorates as its filling becomes compressed. For this reason pillows need to be replaced more frequently than duvets. Depending on the filling type and the amount of use, a new pillow is recommended every six months to two years. Indications that a change is needed include a discoloured pillow, a sore neck in the morning, feeling wheezy or having a blocked nose when you wake up.

The synthetic pillow test: fold your pillow in half, lay on a flat surface and stand a sports shoe on top. If the pillow springs open it doesn’t need replacing. If the shoe doesn’t move it’s time for a new one.

It’s important to match your pillow type to your sleeping style, remembering that pillows should also complement your mattress - i.e. a soft pillow to match a soft mattress.

What pillow types are there?

Natural: down and feather pillows have a longer lifespan than synthetic pillows. Down adds softness and will often form the core of the pillow while feathers add bulk, weight and firmness. Natural pillows offer excellent support, moulding to your head and shoulders.

Synthetic: the perfect pillow for a child or for anyone allergic to down and feathers. Hollow fibre pillows can be home-laundered and come in a variety of densities.

How do I protect my bedding?

Mattress protectors & toppers: provide extra support, soften your mattress and protect your mattress from stains. They also help reduce moisture as you sleep, providing a hygienic extra layer between mattress and body.

Pillow protectors: pillow protectors are used between the pillow and the pillowcase. They protect the pillow from stains, moisture and oils, provide additional warmth and softness, and prevent feather leaks.

Antibacterial versions that banish harmful bacteria are available and may suit those with acne and allergies. Also available are breathable waterproof covers that provide additional, discreet protection.

Here are a few tips for a more perfect pillow: