When it comes to cooling bedding, breathable materials are non-negotiable. You want something that wicks away moisture and doesn’t trap heat.

Here are the top summer-friendly fabrics:

• Cotton : A classic. It’s soft, breathable, and easy to wash. Look for percale cotton—a tighter weave that feels crisp and cool to the touch.
  
  

• Linen : A go-to for that effortless coastal bedding vibe. Linen is naturally breathable and gets softer with every wash. It also has that relaxed, slightly crinkled look that screams summer.
  
  

• Bamboo or Tencel (Lyocell) : Sustainable, moisture-wicking, and silky smooth. Great for hot sleepers and sensitive skin.
  
  

• Lightweight blends : Sometimes, a cotton-linen blend or a bamboo-cotton mix hits the sweet spot for comfort and price.
  
  

Avoid: Heavy flannel, fleece, or microfiber sheets—they trap heat and make summer nights unbearable.

Summer bedding isn’t about piling on—it’s about layering smartly.

Here’s the ideal summer bed setup:

• Fitted sheet + flat sheet : Made from one of the cooling materials above.
  
  

• Lightweight quilt or summer duvet : Opt for cotton-filled or down-alternative duvets that are marked as “lightweight.”
  
  

• Optional throw or blanket : Something gauzy or knit for texture and style—but not too warm.
  
  

Pro tip: Skip the heavy comforters and thick mattress toppers. The goal is airflow, not insulation.

Your summer bedding doesn't just have to feel cool—it should look cool too. That’s where summer home decor meets practicality.

Try these summer color palettes:

• Coastal calm : Whites, sand beiges, pale blues, and seafoam greens for that summer house escape vibe.
  
  

• Botanical freshness : Soft sage, lavender, blush, or mint for a peaceful garden-room feel.
  
  

• Minimalist neutrals : Greys and taupes give a modern look without overwhelming the space.
  
  

Light colors also reflect sunlight and help your room feel fresher. Dark bedding, while elegant, absorbs heat and can feel stifling.

Hot weather doesn’t mean sacrificing home decor style. You can still keep things cute and functional.

Some simple summer room decor upgrades to go with your new cooling bedding:

• Swap your heavy throw pillows for lightweight linen covers or open-knit designs.
  
  

• Ditch the velvet and faux fur —save them for fall.
  
  

• Add a rattan tray or woven basket for coastal flair.
  
  

• Incorporate some wall art or floating shelves with beach prints, botanicals, or light wood frames.
  
  

These little touches bring the whole room together while keeping it breathable and bright.

Even with the best sheets, your sleep might suffer if your mattress is holding heat like a sponge.

What to look for:

• Cooling mattress toppers : Gel-infused or latex options can help regulate temperature.
  
  

• Cooling pillows : Look for memory foam infused with cooling gel, or natural latex. Avoid foam-only pillows, which can trap heat.
  
  

And don’t underestimate the power of a breathable mattress protector . Many people skip this, but it acts as another heat-dispersing layer between you and your mattress.

Hot summer nights = more sweat, which = more laundry. But keeping your bedding fresh also helps it stay breathable and odor-free.

Tips:

• Wash sheets at least once a week during the summer.
  
  

• Use a light, scent-free detergent if you have sensitive skin.
  
  

• Hang dry if you can—it’s eco-friendly and linen especially loves the sun.