Happy guests
Bed and Linen Buying Guide
Whether your holiday home is already established in the holiday letting market or you’re just beginning your journey, it’s essential to carefully choose and maintain the furnishings of your holiday cottage when renting it out to guests.
We’ve gathered some key considerations and guidance when selecting or upgrading the beds, bedding and linen in your holiday home. Scroll down for top tips to help ensure your guests always get out on the right side of the bed during their stay!
Space and Layout Considerations
Not all holiday cottages come with sprawling master suites. When selecting beds, consider your floorplan and available space. A king-size bed might appeal to guests, but may make the room feel cramped and claustrophobic. Keep in mind that a well-placed bed can open up the room and create a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can move freely without the need to squeeze past any furniture.
Your Target Audience
Understanding who you are trying to appeal to is key, and if your holiday home is already up and running. Are your previous guests’ couples, families or solo travellers? A family-friendly cottage might benefit from twin single beds to keep kids happy. If you’re looking to appeal to couples you may want to consider a king size or double bed. If your holiday home has an en-suite, make this the master bedroom.
Types of Beds
Investing in good beds doesn’t mean spending more; it means saving on replacements down the line. Depending on the size of your property, we always recommend having a good quality king-size or double bed, and twin single beds as a good foundation for your guests. Twin beds provide flexibility for separate sleepers and appeals to families with children. We usually wouldn’t recommend bunk beds unless your space is very limited and the room is more designed for children. This configuration limits your appeal to travellers who are child free, for example those holidaying during term time. If bunk beds are your only option, consider full-size bunks and good quality bedding.
If your holiday home is set up for two guests, we’d recommend purchasing a zip and link bed. These clever beds can be set up to accommodate those looking for a king size or two single bed options. We always ask a guests’ preference and liaise with your housekeeper on their requirements in advance. It’s worth noting you would to need provide bedding for both scenarios, but by having the flexible configuration means you’re appealing to companions as well as couples.
Mattress Matters: Selecting the Best Options
— Different Mattress Types
When it comes to mattresses, we’ve got an entire world of options and the search can be a little daunting. From memory foam to innerspring and hybrid models, each type brings something unique to the table (or bed, in this case). Memory foam options can be popular, but it’s worth considering summer season guests who need to stay cool in hot temperatures. Innerspring mattresses tend to offer bounce and support, but you may wish to explore mattress options which do not require periodic turning.
Firmness levels can be a bit like the Goldilocks and the Three Bears – some like it firm, others soft, and the rest want it just right! By providing a range of firmness options throughout your holiday home, you can cater to different sleeping preferences. However if you don’t have multiple bedrooms, we’d recommend a medium-firm mattress for support and durability.
We’re always happy to advise you when it comes to your guests’ comfort needs, we know a lot about it as we are the first port of call for guest feedback! Happy guest’s equal happy cottage owners.
— Allergy Considerations and Materials
In a world where allergies can turn dreams into nightmares, selecting hypoallergenic materials for your mattresses is key. Look for natural and organic materials that minimise the risk of reactions whilst ensuring guests breathe easy at night.
Bedding Essentials: Creating a Cosy and Inviting Atmosphere
— Choosing Quality
When it comes to bedding, quality matters. Opt for white cotton or linen that feels as good as it looks. Look for a high thread count for softness, and don’t shy away from a little bit of luxury — your guests deserve it! Ensure you buy at least three sets of linen in case of multiple bookings within a 7-day period (it happens!) . You don’t want to be left short whilst your linen is being laundered!
We’d always recommend buying white linen from a well-known brand in case you need to order replacements further down the line.
— Seasonal considerations
Consider providing bedding for the different seasons – after all who wants a 15 Tog duvet in the height of summer?! Winter and summer duvets are a great way to cater to your guests needs depending on the time of year they are staying. Alternatively, layering is a great option to keep costs down. Instead of one heavy duvet go for a 10.5 Tog and combine it with a throw or blanket for extra warmth in the winter.
— Look & Style
The bed you choose should reflect the charm of your holiday cottage. Whether it’s rustic chic or elegant coastal vibes, choose colours and patterns that enhance the overall aesthetic. When it comes to bed linen, we always recommend white or a neutral colour. White is incredibly practical, and you can still get your colour fix by adding in a few stylish cushions and a lovely bedspread to pull the whole look together. The impact will look great in photographs!
— Guest Satisfaction
When guests step foot in your holiday cottage, they’re often dreaming of a cosy, restful stay. A quality bed is like the cherry on top of their holiday experience. After a long day of exploration, no one wants to retire to an uncomfortable bed and set themselves up for a bad nights’ sleep. After departure, we send guests questionnaires to complete, and feedback is shared on your property listing online. Who doesn’t want to read what an amazing night’s sleep previous guests have had at your holiday home?
— When to Replace Mattresses and Bedding
Cracks, creaks, and sagging are not just signs of age—they’re signals that it’s time for a change! Most mattresses are due for retirement in 7-10 years. We know that mattresses are personal preference, but if you’re consistently receiving guest feedback that your bed is uncomfortable it might be time to invest in a new one. Our housekeepers always feed back to us if they feel bedding is becoming limp or sheets are showing signs of age. It’s worth having a review of all bedding and linen after each season.
Consider the space available in the room, the number of guests you typically accommodate, and guest preferences. A mix of bed sizes, such as doubles for couples and singles for solo travellers can cater to a wide range of needs if your holiday home offers multiple bedrooms. Alternatively for smaller cottages, consider a zip and link bed option. This type of bed gives the most flexibility to a variety of guests needs and could help increase your bookings.
When setting up your holiday home for the first time, we’re very happy to offer a visit to your property and feedback recommendations to you before you buy.
We completely understand the conundrum here! We would recommend mattresses which offer medium-firm comfort and support and consider materials for the different seasons. Additionally, hypoallergenic options are required to cater to guests with allergies.
It is generally recommended to replace mattresses every 7-10 years, whilst bedding should be refreshed regularly or when showing signs of wear. We always recommend you keep spares and review your holiday home with your housekeeper after busy seasons.
White, white and white!!! White bed linen is extremely practical when it comes to any marks or stains, yet you can still incorporate colour into the cushions and throws you choose. Always keep spares in a lockable cupboard for your housekeeper.
