Think of a luxury bed like a beautifully composed song — it’s not just the instruments but how they’re arranged. The softness. The structure. The cloudlike embrace when you lie down.
If you’ve ever sunk into a Fairmont hotel bed and wondered how they get it just right, you’re not alone. The secret? Strategic layering — a mix of the right sheets, toppers, duvets, and pillows — in the right order.
And with Northern Feather’s Canadian-crafted bedding, you can recreate that experience in your own bedroom — no concierge required.
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Step 1: Start With a Mattress Topper (Your Foundation of Fluff)
If your mattress is more “meh” than magnificent, this is your fix. A quality mattress topper instantly upgrades your bed without the price tag of a new mattress. Northern Feather offers plush, breathable toppers that add softness without sacrificing support.
It’s also a game-changer for temperature regulation and pressure relief — especially if you’re a side sleeper or wake up stiff.
Pro tip: Try the NF High Profile Mattress Topper for a hotel-grade upgrade with breathable, baffle-box design.
Step 2: Add a Fitted Sheet That Doesn’t Fight Back
The fitted sheet is your anchor — it should hug the mattress tightly, stay in place, and feel buttery soft. Northern Feather’s cotton-rich fitted sheets are designed to wash well and last long.
Look for sheets with elasticized corners, deep pockets, and a smooth feel. This is where skin meets fabric, so quality here matters.
Layer tip: Choose a neutral or crisp white tone for that clean, hotel look.
Step 3: Layer a Flat Sheet Like a Pro (With the Hospital Fold Hack)
Next comes the flat sheet. While some minimalist trends have ditched it, we say: don’t skip the flat sheet. It’s a crucial comfort layer and keeps your duvet cleaner for longer.
Tuck the bottom and sides tightly with hospital corners for that straight-from-the-suite finish. Northern Feather’s flat sheets are breathable, soft, and made to layer beautifully with duvets and blankets.
Bonus tip: Leave a few inches untucked at the top to fold over your blanket or duvet — it’s a subtle luxury detail that makes a big visual impact.
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Step 4: Top With a Blanket (Optional, but Hotel-Level Good)
This is your insulation layer. A lightweight, breathable blanket adds warmth in winter and texture year-round. Northern Feather doesn’t currently offer blankets, but pairing our duvets with your favourite throw or quilt creates both visual interest and temperature versatility.
If you like a layered look but sleep warm, use a breathable cotton or waffle blanket between the sheet and duvet. You can always fold it at the foot of the bed when not in use.
Step 5: Add Your Duvet (The Star of the Show)
Here’s where the magic happens. Your duvet is the centerpiece of your layered bed — and it should feel like sinking into a cloud. Northern Feather’s duvet collection includes down, down alternative, and climate-smart options designed for every season.
For that “puffed-up” hotel vibe, choose a high loft duvet and pair it with a smooth, breathable duvet cover. Add a gentle fluff each morning and your bed will look freshly made all day.
Recommended: NF Fairmont Duvet — the same one used in luxury hotel rooms across Canada.
Step 6: Layer on the Pillows (The Art of Perfect Pillow Placement)
Pillows are where comfort meets aesthetics. Layer two or three sets of pillows in different sizes and firmness levels:
- Back row: Large, firm pillows for support
- Middle row: Softer sleeping pillows
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Front row: Decorative cushions or bolsters for a luxe finish
Northern Feather offers everything from feather and down to gel fibre pillows that stay plump and supportive night after night.
Try mixing Fairmont Pillows with NF Gel Fibre for the best of both worlds.
Step 7: Top With a Throw or Accent Blanket (Optional but Impactful)
Want that boutique hotel look? A textured throw blanket draped at the foot of your bed adds visual warmth and a final layer of coziness. Choose one that complements your sheets or pillows for a cohesive finish.
While Northern Feather focuses on core bedding essentials, a neutral-toned accent blanket can help tie your whole look together.
Pro tip: Fold it neatly or casually drape it over the corner — both styles work depending on your vibe.
Why Layering Like This Actually Helps You Sleep Better
Beyond the aesthetics, layering your bed this way creates microclimates — giving you more control over warmth, breathability, and softness throughout the night. That means deeper sleep, fewer wake-ups, and a more restorative morning.
Northern Feather’s bedding is engineered to support better sleep from the inside out — with high-performance fabrics, thoughtful construction, and breathable materials that adapt to your needs.
Explore Our Sleep Wellness Collections
Q&A: How to Layer a Bed — Your Questions Answered
What’s the correct order to layer a bed?
Start with a mattress topper, then fitted sheet, flat sheet, blanket (optional), duvet, and pillows. Accent with throws or decorative cushions.
Do I need both a flat sheet and a duvet cover?
Yes. The flat sheet adds a breathable barrier and helps your duvet stay cleaner longer, while the duvet cover protects your insert and adds design.
How many pillows should I use?
For a Queen or King bed, 4 to 6 pillows are ideal — two firm for structure, two soft for sleep, and two decorative for a polished look.
Can I layer with down alternatives instead of real down?
Absolutely. Northern Feather’s gel fibre options mimic the loft and softness of down without allergens.
Ready to Sleep Like a Luxury Guest in Your Own Home?
Layering your bed isn’t about being fancy. It’s about feeling good when you lie down — supported, surrounded, and soothed. Northern Feather has been perfecting this formula for over 100 years, and now you can bring that legacy into your own home.
From duvets to pillows, sheets to toppers — we’ve got your layers covered.
Build Your 5-Star Bed With Northern Feather
