Bedspread Styling Ideas: How to Style & Store

A bedspread is the fastest way to transform a bed, but there’s a knack to it. Style it well and your bed looks hotel-neat and inviting. Throw it on in a hurry and it can look, well, thrown on.

Here’s how to style your bedspread so it looks its best, plus how to store it properly when the seasons change so it stays lovely for years.

The basic formula for a styled bed

Every beautifully dressed bed follows roughly the same order, built up in layers from the bottom. Once you’ve got the formula, you can play with it however you like.

1. Fitted sheet, then your duvet, made up neatly.
2. Bedspread laid over the top and smoothed flat.
3. A throw folded across the foot of the bed.
4. Cushions arranged from biggest at the back to smallest at the front.

That’s it. Sheet, duvet, bedspread, throw, cushions. Simple layers that add up to a proper made-up look.

How to place your bedspread

Lay the bedspread over the made bed and smooth it down so it hangs evenly on both sides. An uneven drop is the one thing that makes a bed look scruffy, so take a second to line it up.

From there it’s a matter of taste. Fold the top third back to show off your pillows for a lighter, modern look or pull it right up and over them for a fuller, traditional finish.

Getting the colours right

The easiest styling win is deciding whether to match or contrast. Tonal looks calm and considered, like a soft grey bedspread in a grey room. A contrast adds energy, like a warm bedspread against cooler walls.

Pattern is your other lever. A floral design brings softness and character, while a jacquard weave feels a little more elegant. Whichever you choose, echo one of its colours in your cushions to tie the whole bed together.

Switch it up with the seasons

A bedspread is an easy way to change the mood of a room without redecorating. Keep things light and fresh in summer, then swap to a warmer, cosier design when the nights draw in.

It’s also a chance to lean into a look. A patterned patchwork set gives a room that relaxed cottage feel, while something plainer keeps it sleek and simple.

How to store a bedspread

When one goes into hibernation for the season, a little care keeps it fresh for next time. The golden rule is to always store it clean, never dirty, because marks set over time and can attract moths. For how to give it that clean, our guide on whether bedspreads are machine washable walks you through it.

1. Wash it and make sure it’s completely dry before you fold it.
2. Fold it loosely or roll it to avoid deep creases.
3. Pop it in a breathable cotton bag or an old pillowcase, never a sealed plastic one.
4. Keep it somewhere cool and dry, with a lavender bag tucked in to keep it smelling sweet.

Give it a shake and a refold now and then if it’s stored for a long stretch. It’ll come out as good as new.

Keeping it looking its best

In everyday use, a quick shake and the odd airing keeps a bedspread fresh between washes. Spot-clean spills as they happen rather than letting them settle.

Look after it and a good bedspread lasts for years. Browse our full range of bedspreads and you’ll find plenty worth keeping.