“If you want to change the world, start by making your bed”
Perhaps the most famous line from retired Navy SEAL Admiral William H. McRavens during his 2014 speech for the graduating class from the University of Texas at Austin.
September marks the start of a new year for many. Schools return and people get back into a new routine after summer breaks.
Autumn equals cozy, it is a time to reflect and work out ways to reach goals and take forward positive habits.
Making the bed is one habit that can happen every day. According to Charles Duhigg in his book, The Power of Habit, the daily habit that can improve productivity is as he says; "making your bed every morning is correlated with better productivity, a greater sense of well-being, and stronger skills at sticking with a budget.”
Since opening in November 2021, the award-winning Gresham Aparthotel based in Leicester makes hundreds of beds every week.
What better way to start your day than by using these expert tips from housekeeping manager Karolina on making the bed in the best possible way.
By following these steps, you can create a comfortable and beautiful bed that will make you feel relaxed and refreshed every time you sleep on it. Here are her top five tips:
1) Choose the right bedding materials.
“At The Gresham Aparthotel we use high-quality bedding materials that are soft, durable, and breathable.
"They include a mattress protector, a flat sheet, a duvet, and four pillows, plus two decorative cushions and a bed runner for extra warmth and coziness.”
2) Smooth out the wrinkles.
“Before you put the sheets on the bed, make sure they are smooth and wrinkle-free. You can use an iron or a steamer to remove any creases.
"This will make your bed look neat and tidy, as well as prevent any discomfort from sleeping on wrinkled sheets.”
3) Tuck in the sheets and duvet properly.
“Start by placing the mattress protector over the mattress and tucking it under the corners. Then, spread the flat sheet over the mattress protector.
"Tuck the top hem of the flat sheet under the mattress along the sides and foot of the bed.
"Place the duvet on the bed, leaving some space on the top for the pillows, and tuck it under the mattress just like you did with the flat sheet.
"Make sure the sheets and duvet are snug and secure, without any loose or hanging edges.”
4) Plump it up, fluff and arrange the pillows.
“We use six pillows per double bed: four standard pillows and two decorative cushions for extra flair. Fluff them up by shaking them gently and tapping them on both sides.
"Then, place them on the bed in a staggered arrangement: first, the standard pillows against the headboard, then the square pillows in front of them."
5) Add some finishing touches.
“To make your bed look more inviting and stylish, you can add some finishing touches such as a bed runner.”
The Gresham Aparthotel has high-end, tastefully decorated apartments and studios, there is a home from home feeling with the bonus of hotel service and care.
Each of the 121 stylish and unique serviced rooms contains a fully-wequipped kitchenette, ensuite facilities, shower room, dining area and lounge area with a smart TV.
The flexibility of the rooms means guests can enjoy a short or long stay, whether that is for business or leisure including festivals, events, a city break, meetings, seminars, or graduations.
Guests at The Gresham can be sure of a beautiful bed… and with these tips you can enjoy the same luxury at home.
