It can be a tedious, time-consuming task, but making your bed every morning is a simple way of ensuring a positive day and a restful night. And don’t just take our word for it! Admiral William H. McRaven’s book, Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World— based on a 2014 graduation speech he gave at the University of Texas that went viral—was an immediate hit when it was published earlier this year. In McRaven’s powerful speech, he shared this brilliant piece of wisdom:

“If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed. If you make your bed every morning, you will have accomplished the first task of the day. It will give you a small sense of pride, and it will encourage you to do another task, and another, and another. By the end of the day, that one task completed will have turned into many tasks completed. Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter. If you can’t do the little things right, you’ll never be able to do the big things right. If, by chance, you have a miserable day, you will come home to a bed that’s made. That you made. And a made bed gives you encouragement that tomorrow will be better.”

It doesn’t get much better than that! But, in case you need some more motivation (and information on how to do it), keep reading for our top recommendations on why making your bed matters!

Maintain a Clean Space

Pulling the covers up and over the bottom sheet keeps dust, dirt, pet dander and other allergens out of the bed. Maintaining a clean space to sleep translates into a healthier lifestyle. Allergies or other respiratory issues caused by exposure to dust can interfere with sleep and leave you feeling tired. A messy, unmade bed can set off a cycle of poor sleep that can result in difficulty concentrating, a weakened immune system and a whole slew of additional health problems. A clean, made bed leads to more sound and restful sleep. Bonus points if you change your sheets once every two weeks with a fresh laundered set to ensure a clean, relaxed and restful sleep.

Get the Most From Your Bedding

Taking the time to straighten up in the morning ensures you get the most from your bedding. Pulling sheets tight and realigning everything prevents wrinkles from setting in and keeps sheets looking and performing their best. A neatly made bed also looks more inviting and enticing at the end of a long day. Tucking in sheets that came loose the night before can also save you from frustration when drifting off to sleep later.

Tips to Make the Bed

Learn to make the bed like a pro! Here’s our trip to getting a crips, clean look for your bedroom, and turn your room into a blisfull sleeping oasis.

1.Start with the Fitted Sheet

Figuring out the orientation of a fitted sheet can be tricky, but once you establish the top and bottom from the sides, you’re good to go. Start at the bottom and pull the corners of the sheet over the corresponding corners of the mattress. Work around the mattress and make sure each corner is pulled tight and in place.

2.Add the Top Sheet

Look for the large hem to identify the top of the top sheet. The large hem goes at the head of the bed all the way to the edge of the mattress. Center the top sheet on the bed so equal amounts of sheet hang over each side of the mattress.

3.Tuck In the Top Sheet

Tucking in the top sheet is a matter of preference. If you feel sheets should not be tucked in skip ahead to the next step. If you feel sheets should be tucked in, here’s how to make the perfect hospital corner. At the foot of the bed lift the mattress and tuck in the part of the top sheet that hangs off the foot of the bed. Similar to wrapping a present pull the edge of the sheet tight and fold it down along the side of the mattress. Tuck the remaining sheet under the side of the mattress.

4.Add Pillows and a Duvet

Fluff the pillows and make sure the corners of the pillow line up to the corners of the pillowcase. Place the pillows at the head of the bed. Spread the duvet out over the bed and center it on the mattress for a neat appearance. For an extra fancy look, add decorative pillows and a throw at the foot of your bed to match your bedroom colors and décor.

Bedding Matters

The foundation of a good night’s sleep starts with the right sheets and bedding. All of our sheets and bedding are made with Fair Trade Certified™ 100% organic, non-GMO cotton. This means the cotton is grown without pesticides, and the fabric isn’t treated with harsh chemicals. The farmers are paid fair wages and work in safe conditions. Our customers receive quality bedding that’s safe, comfortable and affordable. At SOL we do not unnecessarily mark up our products. Our bedding and sheets are 30% less expensive than our competitors, without sacrificing quality, comfort or luxury.

Now that you know the easy steps to making your bed, and why it’s important each moring, we’re sure you’ll be enjoying a restful night’s rest and wake up refreshed to tackle your day!