5 Tips for Preparing for Winter in the Bedroom
A few years ago, as I braced myself for my first winter in 5 years, I spent all my money on ski paraphernalia..This did not extend to any cosy blankets for snuggling down in the evenings.
I moved to Switzerland mere days before Christmas to start work in a chalet. My boyfriend was showing me the ropes of seasonal living - winter in the Alps and Summer in the Med. I liked him a lot, so I followed him gamely into the snow. It was the beginning of our career together as property managers.
We were at a racing drivers mountain retreat, continuing from the Summer spent on his yacht. It was intriguing to me to see his girlfriend evolve from sun goddess to snow bunny and I took notes.
That Winter, and the many snowy Swiss ones that followed. showed me the way to cosy. I kept my ski gear and invested in creature comforts that are as perfect in Ireland as they are in the Alps. Perhaps more so, as we make do with draughts and old fashioned radiators.
As September turns to October and we pass the Autumn equinox, there are a few important things to remember to do in the bedroom.
Change the Summer duvet to the Winter duvet.
This is my first step to getting Winter ready in the bedroom. The difference is immense. Investing in good quality goose down duvets will be a treat for years and years to come. I choose a cool dry day to air my Winter duvet on the line outside after storage. Then the outgoing Summer duvet can go to the dry cleaners for a refresh before putting it away until next season.
Sheepskin beside the bed
Alpine chalets are all about sheepskin rugs -on the floor, on chairs, in the babies prams …… It is lovely to wake up in the morning and step into a cushioned floor. Ugg have some fabulous sheepskin slippers too, so you can treat your feet twice.
Throws
Browns and greens are restful colours for the winter months -t he colour of the bark of the bare trees, and the green of the evergreen leaves that conversely stay fresh all year. Swap out your lightweight bright colours of the Summer months, for faux furs or wool.
Swap linen cushion covers for velvet
Cosy is all about texture and layering. Velvet is a luxurious tactile fabric that is a sensual treat for your skin during those months when central heating in the house and car plays havoc with your beauty regime.
Electric blanket or hot water bottle?
Both, but not at the same time? A hot water bottle definitely has it’s place - with a soft and furry cover. An electric blanket is a luxury to tempt you into bed earlier and earlier to read for hours before you sleep.
Of course, it is time to take out the Winter wardrobe and carefully store your lovely Summer dresses and sandals until next year.