Few pieces embody the comforts of home like a cozy bed stack. Light linens, warm covers, and soft pillows come together as the focal point of the bedroom. A well-made bed offers a welcome retreat—layers of intentional hospitality within your own space or a guest room. It’s an invitation to settle in and stay a while.
Each element lends unique textures, patterns, and warmth to a space, setting up a relaxing and restorative room that feels unique to you. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of each layer of the bed—in proper stacking order.
01 - Fitted Sheets
The first step in building a bed is finding a fitted sheet that works for you (and your space). Keep in mind the fabric, size,and color of the sheet while you shop. Light base linens might not be the centerpiece of the bed, but they subtly set the tone for layers to come—and the room as a whole.
Tip: A neutral base is a great starting place when designing a bed stack. We’d recommend our Optic White Scalloped Edge Sheet Set for a simple, clean foundation with an added hint of elegance.
02 - Flat (Top) Sheets
Most sheet sets come in a set of four, complete with matching fitted and flat sheets and two pillowcases. Especially for the lightest layers of the bed, try taking note of which materials feel most comfortable to you. For example, our signature Magnolia sheets are made from a silky, breathable blend of bamboo and cotton that can keep you cozy year-round.
03 - Coverlets + Quilts
After laying the foundation, it’s time to build. The coverlet is arguably one of the most underrated layers of the bed. They are flowy, versatile, and textured, adding visual interest and an added coat of comfort to the bed stack. Coverlets are crafted with two layers of fabric, ideal as a refined bed topper or to add warmth in between tiers.
On the other hand, quilts consist of three layers: two soft blankets stitched together with a full batting in the center. Quilts are supportive, bringing a storied feel to the bedroom through nostalgic details, like embroidered stitching and (often reversible) patterns.
Ideal for layering, quilts and coverlets lend additional warmth to the bed stack, going beyond classic layers, patterns, and textures to evoke something unique.
04 - Comforters + Duvets
Now to top it off! Comforters serve as an all-in-one cover with a built-in insert. They are typically larger and lighter than a duvet, making them an easy option for layering (even more).
Duvets are a thick, plush, removable cover with an opening for an insert. Because of this, they are often the “cozier” of the two options and simple to clean.
These layers are often the first thing to catch your eye in the bedroom. They set the tone for the space as a whole, grounding it with color and texture. If you top the bed stack with neutrals and timeless patterns, this layer can balance the room—giving you creative freedom to accessorize how you like.
05 - Pillows + Shams
Good news: if you have a sheet set, you likely have the pillowcases to match. It’s a good idea to start with your sleeping pillows before stacking more. If you aren’t working with a matching sheet set, look for subtle details and textures that pair well with your lightest layer.
It’s a similar process for shams, which are typically stacked in front of sleeping pillows. They can support a decorative pillow stack by tucking them behind to prop—or be pulled forward as a focal point. Many quilts, duvets, and comforters are already paired with complementary pillowcases. They are often decorative and textured, leaving room to mix-and-match.
06 - Throw Pillows + Blankets
Finally, have fun! Throw blankets and pillows are a great way to add individuality to the bed. These decorative accents are easy to pair and switch out seasonally through the years. Plus, these are the details that make the space feel welcoming and warm before ever hitting the sheets.
Styling tip: An inviting space starts from the ground up. Add more comfort to your bedroom with a good rug, like our latest from Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi. Pictured below: Ashby Oatmeal Sand Rug.
The bed is an embodiment of the comforts of home—plus the intentional hospitality that goes into preparing a place to rest and ready for tomorrow. For a more in-depth look at each bed layer, plus more stacking tips, visit the Bedding 101 guide on our blog or find a full exploration of our bedding collection here.
