They say a rug ties a room together, but we’d argue that a quilt does the job even better. Stitched patterns over block-printed florals and graphic grids in punchy palettes draw the eye in so much so that, as far as we’re concerned, it doesn’t really matter what else is going on. 

And they don’t only belong draped over a bed or piled high with other soft throws for chilly nights. One thing’s for certain: The handmade quilts from brands like Studio Ford and Thompson Street Studio (seen in the feature image) are true works of art. If you’re on the hunt for wall decor, you might want to consider hanging one of our picks for an even bolder statement. 

Color-Drench It

Sometimes a stitched grid is all the pattern you need. While Hawkins New York’s is more of an investment, H&M’s $111 option will get you the same vibe for a fraction of the price.

Leni Gauze Cotton Duo Taupe Queen Quilt, Article ($299)

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Simple Linen Quilt, Hawkins New York ($425)

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Kantha-Stitched Nevina Quilt, Anthropologie ($248)

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Everyday Linen Quilt, Parachute Home ($299)

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European Linen Quilt, Quince ($140)

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Quilted Bedspread, H&M Home ($111)

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Go Bold or Go Home

Not for the timid decorator, eye-catching textiles are the best way to create a room with real personality. If you ask us, Kotn’s high-contrast quilt is a great place to start.

Quilted Comforter, Kotn ($250)

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Amalfi Quilt, Serena & Lily ($278 was $378)

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Otti Quilt, Studio Ford ($528 was $660)

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Tile Quilt, Thompson Street Studio ($700)

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Anika Coverlet, Shoppe Amber Interiors ($420)

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Remnant Patchwork Quilt, GreenRow ($399)

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Put It in Neutral

If switching from a duvet to a quilt already feels like a big move, why not ease into it with a more muted palette? From the earth tones in Coyuchi’s design to the pale beige colorway in Schoolhouse’s popular Stillwater style, there’s a whole world of quiet quilts out there.

Robles Handstitched Organic Quilt, Coyuchi ($368)

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Patched Check Hand Woven Cotton Quilt, Toast ($480)

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Reversible Linen Quilt, Brooklinen ($287 was $359)

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Stillwater Floral Quilt, Schoolhouse ($299)

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The post We Found the 16 Best Grandma-Chic Quilts appeared first on domino.

There are good reasons that we’re obsessed with linen sheets: They’ll keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter; they’re moisture wicking; and they get softer with each wash—plus they’re twice as strong as cotton sheets, hypoallergenic, dirt- and lint-resistant, and eco-friendly (since flax, the crop linen is made from, requires little water and few pesticides to grow and is renewable). The best linen sheets have an almost indescribable tactile feel and embody a laid-back aesthetic. After all, people have been using the material for bedding since the time of ancient Egypt. 

But why are linen sheets generally more expensive than cotton ones? And how do you know which bedding brand is the right one to invest in? Read on for answers to these and any other questions you’ve ever had about linen—plus the best picks, from a swoon-worthy budget option to sets finished in chic colors and patterns.

Our Favorites

• Best overall: The Citizenry Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set
• Best budget: DAPU Linen Sheet Set
• Best organic: Coyuchi Organic Relaxed Linen Sheets
• Best lightweight linen: Brooklinen Linen Core Sheet Set
• Best heavyweight linen: Linoto Linen Sheet Set
• Best colors: Bed Threads Flax Linen Sheet Set
• Best lived-in feel: Cultiver Linen Sheets
• Best splurge: Matteo Vintage Linen Sheet Set

Best Overall: The Citizenry Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set

Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set, Queen, The Citizenry ($299)

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The first thing we noticed when unboxing the Citizenry’s stonewashed linen sheet set was the softness. Made in Portugal from French linen, the fine texture is one that makes you keep coming back for more (ideal when it comes to the place where you sleep). These linen sheets clock in at 160 grams per square meter (GSM), lighter than what’s considered medium weight, and what the brand considers optimum for life span and comfort. We’d compare the feel of sleeping on them to that breezy summer linen shirt you pop on when you need a little extra coverage but still want things to be breathable.

There’s more to love about the Citizenry’s sheets: The brand discloses the specific family-run mill they work with and its location, so there’s no guesswork when considering worker conditions. Each piece is Oeko-Tex certified. The sheets shed less after laundering than other linen we’ve encountered, and the muted color palette is easy to mix and match. It also offers free shipping within the continental U.S.

Sizing ranges from full to California king, and the fitted sheet is 15 inches deep, which generously wraps around tall mattresses. Set prices (which includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillowcases) range from $289 to $339, and this puts the brand in the sweet spot between entry level and higher end where linen is concerned. 

Best Budget: DAPU Linen Sheet Set

DAPU Linen Sheet Set, Queen, Amazon ($137 was $150)

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Yes, fine linen is expensive, but there are high-quality and long-lasting picks out there if you’re on a budget or want to test out the feel before splurging. DAPU’s linen set is one of those options. The flax is sourced from France, and the sheets are Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified and processed using nontoxic and natural dyes. They’re also stonewashed (exactly what it sounds like) for supreme softness and will only continue to get more supple with each wash. The material looks to have an excellent drape, similar to some of the pricier brands. And as with all linen, it has excellent breathability and moisture-wicking properties to make sure you stay comfortable all night.

Each set comes with a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillowcases and in a range of colors and sizes. DAPU’s collection is an excellent way to sample great linen at a friendly price point—and comes recommended with more than 2,000 positive reviews. With that, we’d even suggest getting two colors so you can curate your bedscape—perhaps natural linen and olive green.

Best Organic: Coyuchi Organic Relaxed Linen Sheets

Organic Relaxed Linen Sheets, Queen, Coyuchi ($558)

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If you’re looking for a heavier-weight linen from a company that’s completely committed to sustainability, check out Coyuchi’s organic relaxed linen sheets, another designer favorite. In fact, we first spotted these in Athena Calderone’s master bedroom and immediately went down the rabbit hole of the Northern California brand’s extensive literature on organic materials, including why it is GOTS and Fair Trade certified as well as Made Safe.

The organic linen bedding, however, is extra-special, as organic flax makes up only 1% of the crop’s already small market, according to the brand. The flax is sourced from the Saint-Pierre-le-Viger region of Normandy in northern France, and the sheets are woven in Portugal and have a heavier weight at 185 GSM. “We researched vintage linen to create an heirloom weight,” explains Whitney Thornburg, Coyuchi’s design director. 

And it shows. On our bed and against our skin, the material felt sturdy, soft, and comforting and had an elegance to it that draped beautifully. “It has a great natural look,” says interior designer Chiara de Rege, who favors Coyuchi’s linens for her more relaxed interiors.

Best Lightweight Linen: Brooklinen Linen Core Sheet Set

Linen Core Sheet Set, Queen, Brooklinen ($254)

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With its almost gauzelike feel, Brooklinen’s linen core sheet set is the perfect choice if you like “light” bedding. The 145-GSM fabric is stonewashed (which by now you know means it’ll be supersoft right out of the bag), and our set arrived in cotton cases with pretty envelope closures. Made from Belgian and French flax and washed and dyed in small batches, the sheets are Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified and grazed our skin in the most comfortable way due to their light weight. 

We particularly like the limited-edition caramel stripe colorway, a departure from solid colors that instantly elevates an otherwise neutral bedroom. We tried ours under three different duvets in ivory, beige, and dusty pink, and the thick taupe stripes looked equally regal under all, lending the flexibility to mix and match.

Available in four sizes, five core colors, and six limited-edition hues—including an oversize blue gingham print—and praised by thousands of happy customers, these sheets offer an airy update on a classic.

Best Heavyweight Linen: Linoto 100 Percent Linen Sheet Set

100 Percent Linen Sheet Set, Queen, Linoto ($429)

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When Jason Evege, the founder of Linoto, shared that the uniquely heavy weight of these ivory sheets reminds him of the heirloom linen that you’re more likely to find in Europe, we immediately got excited. Ours arrived in an uncharacteristically big box for bedsheets, and we were unprepared for the small workout of carrying it up the stairs. These sheets are heavy. Our set was neatly folded, laundered, pressed, wrapped in brown paper, and tied with twine—a service Linoto does for all its customers so you don’t have to wash your sheets before using them. “Linoto is wonderful for its high-quality selection,” says interior stylist and author Emily Henderson. 

The sheets are a weighty 210 GSM, made with flax sourced from Italy, and hand-finished in Westchester, New York. Sleeping in them was a luxurious and simultaneously therapeutic experience: They almost felt like a weighted blanket. Smooth and stiff—which Evege told us is common in new, high-quality linen—they wrinkled significantly less than lower GSM linen and hugged our bed, as well as our bodies, perfectly. While we did test these in the summer (and had no overheating issues), we couldn’t help but dream about how cozy and cocooning they’d feel in the wintertime. “Linen enthusiasts often love heavier weights,” says Evege. But he acknowledges that his customers live in all sorts of climates, and the brand also comes in lighter weights. 

Linoto offers a wide variety of colors, such as copper plum, a deep purple, and Malbec, a deep berry. And it carries an astonishing 10 sizes, from twin XL and Olympic queen to European king and split king. Plus a bonus: Our king sheet set came with four pillowcases instead of the typical two. 

Best Colors: Bed Threads 100 Percent Flax Linen Sheet Set

100 Percent Flax Linen Sheet Set, Queen, Bed Threads ($290)

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A favorite of Domino editors (and a winner in our Good Design Awards), Bed Threads’s linen sheet set is made from French flax and comes in 23 colorways, including a chic olive stripe and a pretty light pink called rosewater. Editors report these sheets get softer with each wash, drape and layer nicely, and are slightly thicker than a lot of the other popular brands—and the colors don’t fade either.

But the best part of Bed Threads’s offerings is that you can build a custom sheet set. The Build Your Own Bundle tool lets you play around with different pairings and shows you what the final set will look like with a 3D rotating mock-up. This isn’t a feature we’ve seen from other brands, and it allows anyone design minded to create something completely bespoke with ease. But like a lot of good things, there’s a downside, as so many options and possible combinations can make it hard to decide—or to stop shopping!

Best Lived-in Feel: Cultiver Linen Sheets

Linen Sheet Set with Pillowcases, Queen, Cultiver ($401)

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Cultiver has swiftly become one of our top go-tos for linen everything—table runners, robes, napkins, you name it. The Australian brand’s bedding is no exception; it was the best thing our style editor bought in 2022, and other editors have since invested. Products from Cultiver arrive fully packaged in cardboard (easy recycling), and sheet sets come in linen drawstring bags that are, honestly, a good way to wrap up host gifts. Supple and breathable straightaway, these sheets—made in Portugal and China from 100% Belgian and French flax—only soften as they are washed. 

Sizing ranges from twin to California king (there’s no full); some sizes are in and out of stock in different colors. But we love the extra-deep pockets that, when tested, generously fit around an 11.5-inch-tall king mattress with a 3-inch-tall mattress topper. When slept on, we found the fabric to gently graze or comfortably drape versus stiffly stay put or suffocate. Cool to the touch, it has kept us insulated throughout the night without things getting too steamy. Plus Cultiver’s production partners are Oeko-Tex certified.

Best Splurge: Matteo Vintage Linen Sheet Set

Vintage Linen Sheet Set, Queen, Matteo ($425 was $850)

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Matteo started when founder Matt Lenoci was strolling through a flea market in Europe and noticed vintage linen sheets for sale. When he went home to Los Angeles, he thought about how to re-create this luxury Stateside, and so the brand was born. Now top interior designers—from Jessica Helgerson to Colin King—cite Matteo’s linen offerings among their favorites. The brand, which had a partnership with Restoration Hardware, has become a cult favorite for those in the know (and those who prioritize good sleep). “Matteo is premium quality,” says King—think: comfy and lived-in.

When our bedding arrived, folded and in a cloth bag, we admired the feel: soft but textured and the perfect medium weight for any type of sleeper or weather. Matteo takes great care to achieve this. The high-quality flax is sourced from all over the world, and the linens are hand-cut and -sewn in the brand’s L.A. factory. When you purchase a sheet set, the size is pulled from inventory and then batch-dyed to maintain color consistency across the set. The sheets are washed multiple times, sometimes with abrasive agents like pumice stones, in order to break down the fibers for maximum color absorbency and an addictively sumptuous feel. Sleeping on the sheets is as great as everyone told us it would be, and when we woke, we felt as if we had just slept in a five-star hotel: rested, refreshed, and lucky. 

Available in six sizes (including twin XL and California king) and seven neutral hues (with more on the way before the end of the year), each set comes with a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and two pillowcases. The brand also offers variations on its vintage linen sheets (like ruffles and lace) and has coordinating duvets, shams, tablecloths, and even napkins. Trust us: Once you try Matteo, you’ll want to get your hands on every type of vintage linen it offers—it’s just that good. 

More Linen Sheet Sets We Love

Linen Oatmeal Stripe Sheet Set, Queen, Piglet In Bed ($337)

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Linen Margot Sheet Set, Queen, Sheet Society ($405)

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Heirloom Linen Sheet Set, Queen, Morrow Soft Goods ($349)

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LuxeWeave Linen Sheet Set, Queen, Sijo ($266 was $295)

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Linen Sheet Set, Queen, CB2 ($259)

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How We Chose These Products

A good sheet set is to great sleep like good cookware is to great food—you need quality stuff to really get it right. Writer Sade Strehlke as well as Domino editors have thoughtfully tested the top linen sheets on the market to give you an honest opinion on the best sets. We took into account material quality, reviews, brand reputation, price point, and style—not to mention care. We’re always on the lookout for new or noteworthy products, and promise to update our list when something stands out.

Our Shopping Checklist

Weave

Linen sheets are made from the flax plant, which grows best along moving bodies of water such as rivers and streams, explains Logan Foley, managing editor of the Sleep Foundation. “The best-quality linen is said to come from Belgium, specifically along the River Lys,” says Foley. Irish and French linen are also highly prized, and China, too, is a major textile manufacturer and exporter. 

Once the crop is harvested, the flax plant fibers are spun into yarn, which is then woven into linen fabric. A lot of times, high-quality linen is harvested by hand, which adds to the price, as this can be a time-intensive process, says Foley. At the same time, however, flax requires little irrigation or water to grow and few pesticides, so it’s naturally more environmentally friendly than cotton. It’s also renewable (it can be replanted over and over again) and very strong due to the high tensile strength of the flax plant’s fibers, explains Dr. Erum Ilyas of Schweiger Dermatology Group. Linen fabric also absorbs 20% of its water weight before feeling damp, which means it’s a great option if you sleep hot, perspire at night, or live in a warm environment.

Unlike cotton sheets, linen doesn’t come in various weaves, such as percale, sateen, or flannel. “You can get linen from different places around the world, with different weights and characteristics, but for the most part they’re all of the same [weave],” says Foley. Indeed, the biggest difference we found between different linen materials was the quality of the flax, the craftsmanship, and the weight.

Thread Count

Weight, when talking about linen sheets, is akin to thread count when talking about cotton sheets. It’s a key—but not the only—metric to characterize the material. “Linen is a thicker and bulkier yarn; thus, it simply can’t have a high thread count,” says Ilyas.

Instead, linen is quantified by grams per square meter (GSM). And just as thread count is calculated by cutting 1 square inch of the fabric and counting the threads present, GSM is measured as the weight (in grams) of a square meter of the fabric. The heavier the weight, the denser and warmer the fabric will feel. The lighter the weight, the lighter and cooler it’ll feel. Most bedding experts agree that a good medium-weight linen is anything from 170 to 190 GSM, says Foley, which means that it weighs about 170 to 190 grams per square meter.

We tried linen sheets that had both lower and higher GSMs and were not disappointed. Ultimately, it’s about personal preference. Our only forewarning is that a lighter weight might not last as long, so if you do go for a lower GSM or a lightweight option, be very gentle with the bedding when laundering.

Care

Always read the care instructions to be sure, but generally linen sheets should be cared for the same way as all sheets: washing in cold or warm water and drying on a low heat setting or on a line. “I honestly toss them in the wash and the dryer,” says King. As with all textiles, you should also steer clear of fabric softeners and dryer sheets, which will coat your bedding with chemicals that can irritate your skin and break down the fabric’s integrity over time. Instead opt for dryer balls to speed up drying time. If you love laundry that has a slight scent once it’s done, you can even add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the dryer balls. As for trying to iron out the creases that linen is known for, Henderson says don’t bother: “Linen is meant to have some character, so don’t worry about wrinkling.”

Ask Domino

Q: Are linen sheets scratchy? 

As mentioned above, the feel of linen is almost ineffable. “For some reason, it’s hard to describe,” says Henderson. “It’s soft but not silky and slightly rough, but in a textured way.”

True, pure linen sheets are not soft at first, but they do soften substantially with use, especially after a year or two. “They’re made in a way that ages well,” adds King. That’s why you hear of linen being passed down over generations: It’s incredibly durable and stable if cared for correctly.

Q: How long do linen sheets last? 

Linen sheets can last for years if cared for correctly. Our top recommendation is to always consult the manufacturer’s instructions before washing and drying, but we’d also suggest opting for dryer balls over other methods to help linen retain its fabric structure.  

The post The Best Linen Sheets Are the Epitome of Unfussy Luxury appeared first on domino.

Reading up on Domino’s shopping guides is like having your own personal product concierge. We do the tedious part—deep-dive research, hands-on testing, and tapping experts for advice—so all you have to do is hit “add to cart.” That’s why we call them Simply the Best.

Cellular shades can seemingly do it all where windows are concerned. Made of polyester, they feature stacked honeycomb cells that filter out noise and light—and they look sleek while doing it. 

“The honeycomb cells create incredible insulation because air gets trapped in between, so it can keep a room warmer or cooler,” says interior designer Susan Davis Taylor. Example: In one of Taylor’s current projects, a Manhattan loft, the kids’ bedroom looks out at an ugly neighboring roof—but above that is a view of the skyline.

“We decided to do top-down honeycomb shades in that room because it blocks out the ugly view, but you still get the light,” the designer says. “With the top down, you get a beautiful city view.” (And no, the terminology isn’t a mistake: Top down means you can lower the shades from the top down, and bottom up means you can raise them from bottom to top.) Here’s everything else you need to know about cellular shades, and six top brands, before you add them to your cart.

Top Brands

The Shade Store

Light Filtering Cellular Shade, The Shade Store ($168)

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The Shade Store, an industry player that collaborates with designers like Sheila Bridges and Nate Berkus, stocks an extensive catalog of customizable shades, blinds, and drapes—and cellular styles are among them. Three different types, including light filtering, blackout, and day/night, can be customized; you can get them top down-bottom up, cordless, or motorized. Plus you can order as single- or double-cell and inside or outside mount.

Hunter Douglas

Sonnette Roller Shades, Hunter Douglas

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Duette Cellular Shades, Hunter Douglas

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Barbara Elliott, an interior designer based in Stone Mountain, Georgia, is a fan of this stalwart window-coverings company. She finds that it offers a great variety of colors and control (including motorized options) and that the shades are reliable and sturdy.

Its Sonnette roller shades are semi-opaque and designed to diffuse light, while the Duette cellular shades offer more insulation and help with sound absorption, too. Plus they come in almost 150 colors and can be customized to fit different window shapes like arches and skylights. 

Levolor

Levolor Ecru Blackout Cordless Cellular Shade, 70-by-72 Inches, Lowe’s ($126)

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Levolor is backed by tons of positive consumer reviews for its quality, customization, and easy installation. (Lowe’s will custom-cut them to the correct width of your windows.) In the mix of cellular shades, it sits right in the middle from a price point perspective, making it a good overall bet for most people.

Blindster

Deluxe Light-Filtering Double Cellular Shades, Blindster ($60)

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Cordless Light-Filtering Single Cellular Shade, Blindster ($16)

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One of Taylor’s go-tos for cellular shades is Blindster, maker of affordable and high-quality window coverings. The brand’s shades are very customizable, from the size to the type of mount and lift type (i.e., cordless or battery powered).

Its Deluxe light-filtering double cellular shades include two honeycomb cells stacked side by side, which ensure great insulation and light filtering. And the cordless light-filtering single cellular shade is a budget-friendly option. While only available in a cordless lift style, it offers a clean look, is easy to install, and provides insulation and sound absorption. 

IKEA

Hoppvals Room Darkening Cellular Blind, IKEA ($35)

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IKEA’s cellular shades are some of the must affordable among the category, and that doesn’t mean they aren’t well liked or cheap. They range in size, color, and the amount of light they let in, all the way to blackout.

Home Depot’s Home Decorators Collection

Cordless Light-Filtering Shade, Home Depot ($69)

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Top-Down Bottom-Up Light-Filtering Cellular Shade, Home Depot

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Home Depot’s Home Decorators Collection brand is another reliable source for Taylor, with affordable shades that feel luxe and are a breeze to put in.

Its cordless light-filtering shade is available in a range of neutral hues like snow drift and parchment, and the cordless shade is made of small pleats for an unobtrusive, simple look. Home Depot will even cut shades to the width you desire in the store for free (even if you purchase them online). The brand’s top-down bottom-up light-filtering cellular shade provides light filtering and can open from the bottom or the top. This is ideal if you have a view you don’t want to obstruct or you’re trying to get more privacy during certain times of the day. 

Shopping Checklist

Cellular Shades vs. Blinds

Cellular shades are specifically designed with honeycomb cells that work to keep out light and sound. Blinds, on the other hand, will simply block out light. Blinds are also made with horizontal slats while cellular shades are typically made of one piece of fabric. Cellular shades are considered to be safer for households with kids, as they don’t have a cord. While they might have a wand, cellular shades can often be purchased cordless and even motorized. 

Cellular shades also fold up really small, says Taylor. “When you raise a roman blind, you still have a good 6 to 8 inches of it at the top when your window shade is all the way open. With cellular shades, it’s teeny-tiny, about 3 inches,” she adds. “So if you’re doing drapes with them, they just disappear.”

Installation and Operation

Most cellular shades give you the option of an inside mount or outside mount. Davis prefers an inside mount, which means the shade goes inside the window frame and therefore doesn’t cover the whole window frame. For this, you’ll need to measure the inside of the window exactly with a steel measuring tape. 

Operating cellular shades is easy, too. Cordless shades simply raise and lower by a lip at the base of the shade. They can be adjusted to any point, so they don’t need to be all the way up or down. Some cellular shades can be installed so that they are top down, meaning you can drop the shade down and only expose the top half of the window (ideal if you need privacy from the street but want a skyline view, let’s say). 

There are also motorized cellular shade options. “I love motorized shades, and I think it is definitely worth the cost—plus you don’t have to look at cords,” says Elliott. Motorized shades are great for a clean look and work nicely for tall windows where raising them manually just doesn’t make sense. Many motorized shades, too, are actually smart (like these from Hunter Douglas) and have automation features—perfect for “when you’re out of town and want to let light in for plants,” says Taylor. 

Sound Absorption and Energy Efficiency

All cellular shades absorb sound. Some might do this better than others, depending on how the shades are constructed. For example, a double honeycomb shade will probably be more effective than a singular honeycomb shade—but even the singular one will still absorb sound, so it’s up to you to gauge how much sound protection you need. 

To determine energy efficiency, blinds are measured by their R value, which looks at how much heat or cold they hold. The higher the R value, the better insulation they provide. These blackout shades by Blindster, for example, have an R value of 5.0, while these Blindster cordless, light-filtering shades have an R value of 3.5. Blinds that aren’t cellular shades usually have R values of 3.0 or less.

Light and Privacy

There are two types of cellular shades: light filtering and blackout. Blackout shades can be a darker color facing the interior but are often available in a range of neutrals and white on the side facing the street. These are made of a thicker material, which also means they keep more sound out. Some people prefer blackout shades for kids’ rooms and entertainment rooms (i.e., a home theater). Light-filtering shades, meanwhile, come in a variety of neutral hues that face the interior and usually with a white or cream on the exterior-facing side. Their opacity can vary, so it depends on how dark you want the room to be. 

All cellular shades provide privacy when they’re covering a window, but they can be mounted in a way that allows for flexible privacy, too. For example, if you have windows next to your bathtub and don’t want the neighbors peeking in but still want to enjoy some natural light, install your shades so that they come up from the bottom of the frame, leaving the top of the window covered.

The post The Best Cellular Shades All But Disappear Inside Your Window Frame appeared first on domino.

Much like home decor and paint colors, cookware can be a particular thing. Maybe there’s an affinity for stainless steel in your bones, or cast iron is your only go-to. Perhaps you only have eyes for candy apple red, or copper reigns supreme over all else. 

We’ve pored over, and tested, all kinds of cookware on the market through the years. The pull of heritage brands doesn’t seem to be waning—and that’s because most people want stuff that lasts (i.e., items that won’t need replacing in a few years’ time). And yet the wave of direct-to-consumer options that continue to hit digital shelves bring new ideas, attention-demanding colorways, and the hope of fixing everything that’s “wrong” with standard old pots and pans; we’re talking fewer toxins, more versatility, and better storage solutions. 

While we’re not about to get more hours in a day or more room in our cupboards, the best cookware brands continue to bring us back to the kitchen. Below, find our absolute favorites in the crowded space—broken out by brand and what they’re best suited for.

Best Cookware Brands for Sets

All-Clad

All-Clad D3 Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set, Williams Sonoma ($700)

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This stainless steel purveyor is a classic for a reason: The American-made brand, founded in the 1970s, introduced bonded cookware to the masses and has continued to innovate over the years without straying too much from its restaurant-kitchen look. While there are several collections that span nonstick, copper core, hard anodized, and ceramic, the original material is hard to beat. Its D3 Classic set is an incredible value for the quality you get—even heat distribution, easy maintenance, good design. (I’ve cooked with this set for nearly a decade and it’s still my go-to for everyday sautéing, saucework, and so on.) It is one of those lasts-a-lifetime options. 

Ensembl

Stackware Core2, Ensembl ($594)

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A relative newcomer to the cookware world, Ensembl launched its smartly designed Stackware in 2021. As the name implies, the pieces in the collection are indeed stackable, from the wider saucepan to the braiser to the stockpot. The Full6 isn’t cheap by any means, but each of its six shapes is appropriate for almost anything you’d cook on a regular basis, and the details is where Ensembl’s quality really stands out. The solid stainless steel and aluminum construction results in even heat distribution, works on induction cooktops, and is easy to clean up. Measurement markers on the interior of the pots and pans is a nice touch, and the fact that there are no interior connections means no food bits get left behind. The design is easy on the eyes, too, and you’ll get patented removable handles (that really work; I’ve been testing ‘em for six months!) and flat-lying lids. 

Caraway

Cookware Set, Caraway ($395 was $545)

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Founder and CEO Jordan Nathan got the idea for Caraway Home after getting a case of Teflon poisoning, so it’s no surprise that nontoxic materials are at the heart of the brand. But if PTFE-free coatings aren’t exactly sexy, the pots’ palette of moody hues certainly is, including sage green, cream, terracotta, navy, light gray, and more. “We created the palette to feel dusty and desaturated (which is normally accompanied by a matte finish), but added a gloss finish to create a unique contrast,” explains Jordan. Plus the cookware set comes with a magnetic storage system that makes putting pots and pans away extra-easy, and our style editor, Julia Stevens, appreciates their casual look and that they stack.

Best Cookware Brands for Dutch Ovens

Le Creuset

6.75-Quart Oval Dutch Oven, Le Creuset ($445)

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If there were royalty in cookware land, Le Creuset would be it. The French brand’s enameled surfaces, vast array of colors (a collection that only keeps growing), and high-quality heat retention make each piece—and specifically the Dutch ovens—the crowning jewel in a collection. The cast-iron pieces are made by in-house artisans and are pretty much guaranteed to outlive you. While those after a deal may not be into the high prices that Le Creuset demands, it’s an investment you won’t regret. 

Staub

Staub 7-Quart Enameled Cast-Iron Round Dutch Oven, Williams Sonoma ($330)

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If you prefer more fashion-forward hues and a slightly less rotund body, check out Staub. Another timeless French brand made since the 1970s, Staub products are resistant to scratching, chipping, and thermal shock thanks to three layers of glass powder and mineral pigments. Upkeep for the Dutch ovens is minimal; I’ve rarely seen anything stick to the enameled cast iron over the eight years I’ve owned one. The matte black colorway patinas particularly well over time, and jewel tones like a shiny emerald green will look right at home nestled among your tablescape. 

Serax

Serax Surface Enameled Cast-Iron Dutch Oven, Food52 ($370)

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If there’s a sexier Dutch oven out there, we’ll wait. Serax collaborated with three-Michelin-starred chef Sergio Herman to craft matte black and dusty green versions of this cast-iron beauty, finished with an enamel exterior and polished interior that never needs seasoning. The style comes in four different sizes, with the largest clocking in at 5.8 quarts, and it is compatible with all stovetops, including induction. Like most enameled cast iron, we’d recommend handwashing this one.

Made In

7.5-Quart Oval Enameled Cast-Iron Dutch Oven, Made In ($299)

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Made In’s new 7.5-quart Dutch oven is a dreamboat. Nearly $150 less than a similarly sized Le Creuset and sporting a sleek and simple silhouette, its heat retention and distribution, as well as its naturally nonstick surface, is top-notch—we like it for braises and a boatload of red sauce. At 15 pounds, it’s not light by any means, so keep that in mind if you’re gifting it to someone. The stainless steel knob and six color options are pretty standard, but the antique white has our number. There’s something timeless and trusty about an oyster hue; you won’t get tired of seeing this one on your shelf.

Dansk 

4-Quart Købenstyle Casserole, Food52 ($135)

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The Dansk Købenstyle casserole is a mid-century design classic, and it can be a welcome departure from the heftiness of other Dutch ovens. Debuting in the late 1950s, the 4-quart enameled carbon steel pot can absolutely be tasked with cooking soup or rice and beans, but we love it as a perfect popcorn oven. Even better that the lid doubles as a trivet for stovetop-to-table snacks and meals. The white does take on stains if you don’t maintain the exterior properly, but there’s something about a little bit of browning that says, “I’ve used you lovingly.” 

Our Place

Perfect Pot, Our Place ($165)

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Shiza Shahid, Our Place’s founder, doesn’t believe in clutter. That’s why the kitchen equipment she creates serves more than one purpose. In the case of the Perfect Pot, you get eight uses out of one piece. This one’s ideal for stovetop devotees (think: lots of pasta or one-pot meals). It’s very lightweight at 4.5 pounds, nonstick, and comes with a nesting spoon and hybrid roasting rack–steamer. To note: The Perfect Pot is only oven-safe up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. If you aren’t worried about an extra nine pounds, want yours to handle oven temps up to 500 degrees, and can spare an extra $10, spring for the cast-iron Perfect Pot.

Best Cookware Brands for Nonstick Fry Pans

Hexclad

10-Inch Hybrid Pan, Hexclad ($150)

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If you prefer high-performance, low-maintenance cookware, Hexclad is for you. Unlike other options out there that tout a nonstick coating, there are no crazy rules to live and die by here: You can cook with spray, oil, or butter. The proprietary hybrid technology combines an aluminum core, stainless steel, and a steel hexagonal pattern, which means that these fry pans conduct heat well, and any stubborn crusties wipe away without elbow grease. Plus you can actually toss these in the dishwasher. Our associate shopping editor, Morgan Bulman, reports that even after a year, she’s seen no staining or discoloration.

GreenPan

GreenPan Reserve Ceramic Nonstick Fry Pan, Set of 2, Food52 ($120)

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If you’re looking for an extremely durable, nontoxic option that still gets points for looks, GreenPan’s various lines will serve you well. The brand, known for its diamond-infused ceramic coating, offers up color, stainless steel, and thoughtful design elements that can often go unconsidered where nonstick is concerned. The GP5 and Reserve lines are the best-looking of the bunch, but the Venice pans have classic appeal as well. All are oven-safe up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit, and some are even induction-friendly. (Psst: The company has collaborated with Food52 on a line, too, like these beauties with wood handles. Just don’t put those in the oven.) It also makes an adorable rice cooker that we love.

Best Budget Cookware Brands

Goldilocks

7-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set, Goldilocks ($175)

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We’ve been testing the tri-ply stainless steel cookware from newcomer Goldilocks for some time and are impressed with its heat retention and distribution. Not to mention, it has the same handsome “fancy restaurant kitchen” look as Tramontina and All-Clad at a much more budget-friendly price. The stock pot is the perfect shape—well balanced in proportion—while the saucepan and fry pan handles are lithe and comfortable to use while on the stovetop. The material is dishwasher-safe, oven-safe up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit, and can be used on induction cooktops. Plus each piece’s rolled edges make pouring less messy, and the three included lids fit all four pans. While we think this group is the brand’s best bet, especially as a foundation for a new kitchen, Goldilocks also makes utensils, knives, and Dutch ovens.

Lodge

Lodge 6.5-Inch Seasoned Cast-Iron Skillet, Williams Sonoma ($15)

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Do you prefer to cook on cast iron and only cast iron? Tennessee-based brand Lodge is likely a contender. Pick up an affordable enameled Dutch oven for a fraction of what you’ll pay for a Le Creuset or a combo cooker that basically gives you a two-in-one piece. The classic skillets range from just 3.5 inches in diameter to 15 inches, but not even the largest size exceeds $60. They come preseasoned and have that cozy cabin vibe that’ll fit right in with a farmhouse-y interior, but anyone who likes roasted chicken, braised greens, or sunny-side-up eggs would benefit from them. Not all of Lodge’s products are made in the U.S., so if that’s paramount to your purchasing decisions, check the fine print. 

Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart Castelle 10-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set, Amazon ($150)

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Martha Stewart launched an Amazon storefront this winter, and it includes thousands of the multihyphenate’s products, including cookware. You can purchase singles of several styles from the Castelle collection, but the 10-piece stainless steel set is just $150 (and $10 more for nonstick). In addition to a pasta-perfect sauté pan, you get two frying pans, two saucepans with lids, and one 5-quart Dutch oven with a lid. They all have interior fill lines for easy measuring and are oven- and broiler-safe to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The 18/8 stainless steel is highly durable, and an aluminum core guarantees even heat distribution. Plus you can use them on all stovetop types, including induction.

Tramontina

Tramontina Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 12-Piece Cookware Set, Amazon ($300 was $610)

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Tramontina is an enduring budget pick and makes an ideal entry-level 12-piece set for under $350. While not the least expensive of the brand’s offerings, it’s the balanced middle ground that you can expect to use for years. It comes with two skillets, three saucepans and lids, a sauté pan and lid, and a stockpot with lid; there’s very little else you’d need to have a fully stocked kitchen. We love the clean and sophisticated design, 18/10 steel construction, and lifetime warranty. Note: Stainless steel is safe to use on all types of stovetops, including induction.

Best Luxury Cookware Brands

Mauviel

Mauviel Copper 2-Quart M’150 B Saucepan, Williams Sonoma ($250)

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It’s hard to go awry with Mauviel. Founded nearly 200 years ago in France, the brand boasts several styles of copper cookware and they’re all lookers. The straight rims, polished exterior, and stainless steel rivets contribute to an elegant package; choose between bronze, stainless steel, and cast-iron handles to finish things off. Various sets are available, some with different thicknesses, but a big winner for us is the M6S line—it’s induction compatible. 

Hestan

Hestan Stainless Steel Classic Roaster With Rack, Food52 ($225)

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If you’re in the market for a serious upgrade from your first-apartment set or just want to add a new fancy piece to your collection, Hestan will make the splurge worth it. Whether bonded with titanium or made with a copper core or diamond-reinforced nonstick finish, it’s all made in Italy. The Thomas Keller Insignia line sports particularly lovely silhouettes, and the universal lid from that collection would make a great gift for an amateur chef. The quality doesn’t come cheap, so to help you out, the brand offers a quiz that’ll guide you to the right fit.

How We Chose These Products

Our editors have tested products from different cookware brands for years. All persuasions of material—stainless steel, copper, aluminum, nonstick, cast iron, enamel, you name it—have graced our gas, electric, and induction stovetops. We all have a preference for something, whether that’s style (class versus contemporary), sets (one to two pans or a whole suite), or versatility. There are regular entertainers among our ranks, and those who prefer to cook just for themselves and their immediate family, and we’re always on the lookout for new players, colors, and technology. Each brand on this list has either been personally tested (most of them) or recommended based on heat retention and distribution, care and maintenance, and aesthetics. 

If you have a favorite cookware brand to throw into contention, share it in the comments.

The post We Surveyed All the Best Cookware Brands to Find the 17 Worth Buying appeared first on domino.

Perhaps you’ve spotted these cord-free cuties in the back garden of a favorite restaurant, that moody cocktail lounge around the corner, or your coolest friend’s impeccably decorated patio. Portable table lamps are seemingly everywhere lately—which makes sense for a light that’s designed to go anywhere you do. Unlike candles that burn down or blow out, these LED-equipped vessels offer a reliably rechargeable glow that will outlast the longest of alfresco festivities. If you, too, are tempted by the cozy glow cast by portable table lamps, consider our top picks for setting the summer scene. As an added bonus, many of our chosen favorites work just as well sitting on a nightstand or nestled into a bookshelf as they do illuminating the open night air.

Minimal Lamps for the Modern Home

While each of these lamps is outdoor-friendly, it’s pretty easy to imagine them coexisting with your indoor decor. Not to mention that, in certain spots around the house like a coffee table or floating shelf, a cord is the last thing you want to see. And when you’re hanging outdoors after the sun’s down, you’re all set. 

Lalavon RGB Cordless Lamps Rechargeable, Magnetic Table Lamp with Free Rotating, Amazon ($40)

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Cestita Bateria Rechargeable Table Lamp by Santa & Cole, 2Modern ($636 was $795)

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Meridian Portable Table Lamp, Ferm Living ($269)

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Column Rechargeable Table Lamp, Menu ($160 was $229)

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Flowerpot VP9 Portable Table Lamp, &Tradition ($315)

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WEILAILUX Small Battery Operated Table Lamp, Amazon ($30 was $50)

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Personality-Filled Lamps That Pack a Punch

Spring is all about embracing color and having fun, and that’s exactly what these punchy picks bring out. Their small size won’t stop them from making a bold statement; place &Tradition’s Setago lamp on a coffee table and it becomes the centerpiece of your living room. We don’t always play favorites, but we’re partial to Pooky’s Walter lamp, now available in the U.S.

Poldina Lido Rechargeable LED Table Lamp, Zafferano ($199)

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Walter Cordless Table Lamp, Pooky ($150)

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Bicoca Portable Table Lamp, Marset ($214 was $252)

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Bellhop Rechargeable LED Table Lamp by Flos, Lumens ($350)

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Setago Portable Table Lamp, &Tradition ($225)

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Sidnie Portable Lamp, Schoolhouse ($199)

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Utilitarian Lamps That Light Up Your Dinner Party—And Your Camping Trip

Outdoor-friendly portable table lamps aren’t a new thing—we’ve been using lanterns for decades. But we can pretty much guarantee that what you’ll find at a sporting goods store will be less cute than these. Many of them can hang from a tree, which is a laid-back version of a pendant lamp. Balmuda’s is dimmable, taking you from moody candlelit to light and bright.

Solight Design Outdoor Solar-Powered Light, Amazon ($33)

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Forest Lantern, Barebones Living ($80)

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Mousqueton Portable Outdoor Lamp, HAY ($135 was $225)

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BALMUDA The Lantern Rechargeable Lamp, Food 52 ($157)

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Kero Table Lamp, Gantri ($248)

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KIN Portable Cordless Lantern, Bask ($35)

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The post 18 Portable Table Lamps That Let You Take the Glow With You appeared first on domino.

Reading up on Domino’s shopping guides is like having your own personal product concierge. We do the tedious part—deep-dive research, hands-on testing, and tapping experts for advice—so all you have to do is hit “add to cart.” That’s why we call them Simply the Best.

Sleeper sofas aren’t what they used to be—and that’s a good thing. Whatever lumpy pull-out mattress you crashed on years ago in your friend’s parents’ basement, forget about it. “With advances in design and technology, sleeper sofas now look like actual sofas and perform like actual beds,” says Mary Beth Christopher of MBC Interior Design. “This means you can truly get dual function not just out of the sofa but out of rooms as well. It’s a form and function success story!”

With the addition of a design-forward sleeper sofa (or is it a couch bed?), offices can double as guest bedrooms. Playrooms can become a spot for cousin sleepovers. Living rooms can act as an overflow sleeping area. “When square footage is limited, it’s not practical to devote an entire room for the occasional guest,” says interior designer Sarah Cole. “However, a sleeper sofa allows a space to be multifunctional for those once-in-a-blue-moon guest stays.” 

Now thanks to improved folding mechanisms, brands have been able to design higher-end sleeper sofas that you and your overnight guests will love to both sit and sleep on. Imagine intriguing silhouettes, slim arms, and less bulky cushions. We combed through our favorites and narrowed down the 10 best sleeper sofas. Read on for our top picks. 

Our Favorites

• Best easy conversion: Article Braam Sleeper Sofa
• Best compact: Lulu and Georgia Coniston Sleeper Sofa 
• Best crazy-cozy mattress: West Elm Harmony Modular Sleeper Sofa
• Best value: DHP Franklin Mid-Century Daybed
• Best extra storage: EQ3 Reva Sectional Sofa Sleeper
• Best sink-in-and-stay design: Ballard Designs Baldwin Upholstered Queen Sleeper
• Best oversize option: Rove Concepts Milo Sleeper Sofa
• Best slim silhouette: Serena & Lily Grady Sleeper
• Best sleeper chair: ABC Carpet & Home Home Cobble Hill Amy Twin Sleeper Chair
• Best slipcovered: Crate & Barrel Willow II Slipcovered Queen Sleeper Sofa 

Best Easy Conversion: Article Braam Sleeper Sofa

Braam Sleeper Sofa, Article ($1,299)

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Width up to: 75 inches | Mattress size: Queen or 2 twins | Mattress fill: Foam and pocket springs

Why we chose it: Converting from couch to bed doesn’t get much easier than this.  

We’ve all been there, grunting and groaning as we try to yank out the heavy folded bed of a sleeper sofa. That’s not how this Article couch works. Instead, fold out the top bench cushion that’s secured via Velcro panel and—voilà! A nearly queen-size sleep area or two twin mattresses. They are made of high-density foam and pocket springs wrapped in polyester fiber, which are situated atop a wood frame. There’s no assembly required, which is a good thing since it weighs in at more than 130 pounds, and the sizing is nice for a small office or apartment living room. As a bed, it’s low to the ground, but you can achieve a makeshift guest suite by adding a mattress topper and your finest set of linens. The fact that it’s also a sophisticated armless, cool-as-can-be sofa? Even better. 

Best Compact: Lulu and Georgia Coniston Sleeper Sofa 

Coniston Linen Sleeper Sofa by Ginny Macdonald, Lulu and Georgia ($5,698)

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Width up to: 73 inches | Mattress size: Queen, king | Mattress fill: Foam

Why we chose it: When a full house requires something that won’t crowd you or your other furniture.

Designer Ginny Macdonald’s Lulu and Georgia collaboration yielded plenty of desirable goods, including new upholstery for this exclusive number. The quaint three-person seater can be wrapped in stain-resistant linen, plush velvet, or a bouclé blend. We love that its sloped-arm silhouette won’t overpower smaller spaces—and that it incorporates Macdonald’s traditionally British and California-cool style. That’s part of the reason why it’s easy to mistake the timeless design for a sofa alone, when in reality you can remove the two cushions to easily pull out a foldable foam mattress. “This is the best sleeper sofa we’ve ever had,” notes one 5-star reviewer. “Solid construction. No spring,-foldable mattress is fantastic. Firm but wonderful!” 

Best Crazy-Cozy Mattress: West Elm Harmony Modular Sleeper Sofa

Harmony Modular Sleeper Sofa, West Elm ($2,799)

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Width up to: 84.5 inches | Mattress size: Queen | Mattress fill: High-density foam and gel foam

Why we chose it: The gel-foam mattress ensures a cool, comfortable night’s sleep for anyone who crashes. 

Sleeper sofas aren’t known for their rave-worthy mattresses, but this West Elm design is an exception. Its mattress is constructed with a layer of high-density foam and a layer of gel-infused foam that contours to your shape and wicks away body heat. (Sweaty sleepers, rejoice!) Sofa-wise, it’s just as impressive, with a contemporary bench seat and the option to add on an ottoman, which instantly turns it into a sectional. “This is a nice, clean style that will act like a design chameleon depending on its environment,” says Christopher. “Traditional or more modern, this is an easy fit.”

Best Value: DHP Franklin Mid-Century Daybed

DHP Franklin Mid-Century Daybed ($371)

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Width up to: 78 inches | Mattress size: Twin, full, queen | Mattress fill: Mattress not included

Why we chose it: This daybed doesn’t take up much space—and doesn’t cost a fortune either. 

It doesn’t get much simpler, or more affordable, than this daybed. With no couch-to-bed conversion necessary, it’s the best of both worlds, offering you an extra-flexible piece of furniture. Just ask yourself a few questions. Velvet or linen? Twin, full, or queen? Will you place it in a guest room, kid’s bedroom, or office? The only (potential) downside: The mattress is sold separately. Though at this price point that allows you to invest in one that’s the perfect size and firmness for you.

Best Extra Storage: EQ3 Reva Sectional Sofa Sleeper

Reva Sectional Sofa Sleeper, EQ3 ($7,549)

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Width up to: 126.8 inches | Mattress size: Double or queen | Mattress fill: Memory foam

Why we chose it: Multifunctionality for the win—this sectional’s chaise opens up for extra storage.

Our love for a chaise longue knows no bounds, but add the word storage in there and we’re practically swooning. With this sleeper sofa, you won’t have to venture back and forth to the linen closet to make up the pull-out bed whenever guests are ready to hit the hay; simply store everything you need right in the sofa. The chaise can go on the left or right, the arm width can be standard or narrow, and the mattress can be a double or queen size.

Best Sink-in-and-Stay Design: Ballard Designs Baldwin Upholstered Queen Sleeper

Baldwin Upholstered Queen Sleeper, Ballard Designs ($3,199 was $3,999)

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Width up to: 89 inches | Mattress size: Queen | Mattress fill: Spring

Why we chose it: Whether in couch or bed form, this sleeper begs you to cozy up and stay a while.

Just looking at this sleeper sofa has us feeling a nap coming on. It’s that cozy, no matter if it’s in couch mode or has been pulled out to reveal the tucked-in queen-size mattress. There’s no going wrong with any of the (many, many) fabric options, which include plenty of patterns as well as solid neutrals. Then pile on the pillows, including the four matching throw pillows it comes with, and kick your feet up. Here’s betting you’ll get plenty of use out of this sleeper sofa for years to come.

Best Oversize Option: Rove Concepts Milo Sleeper Sofa

Milo Sleeper Sofa, Rove Concepts ($2,499)

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Width up to: 98.4 inches | Mattress size: Queen | Mattress fill: Spring

Why we chose it: This large-and-in-charge sleeper sofa will be the star of your living room (without overwhelming the overall design).  

This sleeper sofa is a series of contradictions. It is low profile but high in style. It’s substantial in size—more than 8 feet long!—yet would blend in beautifully with other furniture. It’s sophisticated but casual. Best of all, the cushions simply flip over to create an easily convertible sofa bed. Sleepovers just got way more fun.

Best Slim Silhouette: Serena & Lily Grady Sleeper

Grady Sleeper, Serena & Lily ($8,898)

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Width up to: 88 inches | Mattress size: King | Mattress fill: Foam

Why we chose it: While the sofa features slight, squared-off lines, its king-size mattress offers plenty of room for guests to stretch out.

“When you think of sleepers, you usually think of big and bulky,” says Kristine Renee of Design Alchemy. That doesn’t describe this one, even though it’s one of the longest options on this list with a king-size bed tucked inside. “I like how this has petite, feminine lines while still being highly functional,” she adds. “The slimmer arms take up less space, and that sloped profile gives it a nice element of unexpected style that is current and timeless.” There’s also an abundance of printed fabrics to choose from, if you want your sleeper to make more of a statement. Looking for something even smaller? We also reviewed the best sleeper sofas for small spaces.

Best Sleeper Chair: ABC Carpet & Home Cobble Hill Amy Twin Sleeper Chair

Cobble HIll Amy Twin Sleeper Chair, ABC Carpet & Home ($5,445)

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Width: 41 inches | Mattress size: Twin | Mattress: Innerspring 

Why we chose it: When less is more, opt for a chair—its twin mattress might just make it the comfiest sleeper on this list.

A compact chair version of the Amy Queen sleeper sofa (which we also love, by the way), this clean-lined seat discreetly hides a pull-out twin mattress that our managing shopping editor, Samantha Weiss-Hills, swears is the comfiest she’s experienced. In her words, it strikes the perfect balance of “sinking-in” softness and quality support. Plus operating the opening mechanism is seamless. There’s no laboring involved; the back cushion lifts up to act as a quasi-headboard, and the bottom cushion unfolds into the bed. It’s sizable enough where it doesn’t feel like a cot, making it an ideal addition to a home office that may already be tight on space. 

Best Slipcovered: Crate & Barrel Willow II Slipcovered Sleeper Sofa

Willow II Slipcovered Queen Sleeper Sofa, Crate & Barrel ($2,299)

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Width up to: 84 inches | Mattress size: Queen | Mattress fill: Spring 

Why we chose it: At first glance, you’d never guess this cottage-style couch is slipcovered—or that it has a bed inside.

Modern and tailored. As of a decade ago, those probably wouldn’t have been the words you’d use to describe a slipcovered sofa, let alone a sleeper. Now however, both slipcovered sofas and sleeper sofas—and best yet, a slipcovered sleeper sofa, like this one from Crate & Barrel—can make for a solid couch option. This pick doesn’t compromise style, comfort, or convenience with its fitted cotton covers. “I was happy to find that the sleeper itself pulls out easily,” notes one reviewer, who also shares that they were pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the mattress is. “And the slipcovered exterior adjusts nicely to the transition when opened. This is honestly a great sofa—casual yet elegant and at an affordable price.”

How We Chose These Products

A sleeper sofa is not a nonchalant purchase. It’s a sofa, it’s a bed, and it’s a serious investment. To compile this list, we exclusively shopped brands we trust that consistently produce high-quality pieces of furniture. That way you can feel confident that any of these options would become an indispensable part of your home’s design for the long term. They all would be a cool and comfortable addition to your home today, and just as cool and comfortable years from now. 

Our Shopping Checklist

Size

Whether you’re shopping for a sleeper sofa to sneak into a tiny office space or one that will be the centerpiece of a grand living room, you have many choices. We shopped for a variety of sleeper sofas in a variety of sizes. Some are twin size, others feature a king-size mattress, and many offer options in the middle.

Durability

The best sofa brands strive for long-lasting comfort, and we would expect the same from any sleeper sofa we’d consider buying. “With sleeper sofas, it’s all about the mechanism,” says Conner. “You want good hardware. That’s what will fail the quickest if it’s not quality.” Hardware that can withstand frequent conversions—and also converts easily!—topped our shopping checklist, and it should be at the top of your priority list, too. 

Customizable

Customization is key to getting the exact look that you’ll love for years to come. Shop for sleeper sofas that allow you to choose the upholstery and even the length of the sofa. That’s what we did.  

Design

Nowadays there’s no reason to settle for a snoozy sleeper sofa. (Hopefully we proved that with this list.) Invest in a forward-thinking design that features a cool silhouette, arm style, leg shape, fabric—or all of the above. 

Comfort

“There is still a stigma that sleeper sofas are uncomfortable,” says Cole. “Many people cringe and think of that back-breaking bar found in older models.” That’s not the case anymore, though, so prioritize comfort. Well-made sleeper sofas include supportive mattresses as well as a platform bed mechanism that provides a level and barless sleeping surface. Your overnight guests will thank you.

Ask Domino

Q: How much space do you need for a sleeper sofa?

Whatever sleeper sofa you’re considering, keep a close eye on its dimensions, both of the sofa as is and when it’s fully extended into a bed. “You’ll want a minimum of 24 inches between the foot of the opened bed to the wall or another piece of furniture,” says Christopher. That way your guests won’t be hitting their shins on the corner of your coffee table when shuffling out of bed. As with any big furniture purchase, measure—and then measure again. 

Q: Can you put a mattress topper on a sleeper sofa?

Definitely! “There are a huge variety of mattress toppers out there, not just the old egg-crate style,” says Cole. Do you prefer memory foam, gel foam, wool, microfiber, or down? Depending on the topper you choose, you may not have to worry about finding a place to store it while the bed is tucked away either. “They are flexible enough to use on a sleeper sofa, and most can even fold up within the sofa,” she adds. 

Q: What’s the difference between a sleeper sofa and a sofa bed?

The phrases are so similar that it’s easy to use them interchangeably. There’s a major difference between the two, though. “A sleeper sofa has a dedicated mattress that folds into the frame of the sofa when not in use, and it has separate cushions that are used when sitting on the sofa,” explains Cole. “A sofa bed or futon uses a single cushion for both sleeping and sitting, so you sleep and sit on the same surface.” 

The Last Word

A design-forward sleeper sofa should be the best of both worlds: a couch you’ll feel comfortable kicking your feet up on, as well as a bed on which you and your guests can grab a good night’s sleep. Don’t settle for less. 

The post No Guest Bedroom? No Need With One of the Best Sleeper Sofas appeared first on domino.

Reading up on Domino’s shopping guides is like having your own personal product concierge. We do the tedious part—deep-dive research, hands-on testing, and tapping experts for advice—so all you have to do is hit “add to cart.” That’s why we call them Simply the Best.

If you’re considering adding a set of bamboo sheets to your bedding rotation, we’re here to cheer you on. There are serious perks to bamboo. First of all, it’s naturally antimicrobial and hypoallergenic—a win for anyone with sensitive skin, allergies, or eczema. Bamboo sheets can be super-breathable and moisture wicking, too, since they absorb more water (ahem, sweat) than even cotton does. Whether you overheat in the night, need a gentle set of sheets to soothe irritable skin, or simply are ready for something new, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve tested the best bamboo sheets and have narrowed down your options to the five sets we think are worth your hard-earned money and precious hours of shut-eye.

“For me, sheets are like clothing: They’re intensely personal,” says designer Nate Berkus, who knows a thing or two about the importance of getting good sleep. (He is a dad of two little ones and has collaborated with Beautyrest.) If you’re new to bamboo sheets, Berkus suggests starting small. “You could buy a pillowcase first; then you’ll know for certain that what you’re sleeping on is something that you love.”

Or if you’re like us and always tempted to try out anything new, you won’t regret going all in with the whole set, and you’ll probably want a second one ready in the linen closet. We do. Scroll on for our Domino-tested and -approved picks for the best bamboo sheets.

Our Favorites

• Best cooling: Ettitude Signature Sateen Sheet Set
• Best colors: Sunday Citizen Premium Bamboo Sheet Set
• Best luxury: Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set
• Best soft-to-the-touch: Pom Pom at Home Bamboo Sateen Sheet Set
• Best budget: Quince Organic Bamboo Viscose Sheet Set
• Best cotton-bamboo blend: The Company Store Bamboo Sateen Sheet Set

Best Cooling: Ettitude Signature Sateen Sheet Set

Queen Sateen Sheets, Ettitude ($229)

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Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king | Return policy: Within 30 days, store credit for returns up to 60 days | Care: Machine-wash cold

Why we chose it: These supremely soft sheets sleep as cool as they claim.

After hearing whispers about Ettitude’s Signature Sateen sheets and their next-level softness, staff writer (and self-professed hot sleeper) Kenya Foy couldn’t resist trying the brand out for herself. A few months’ worth of sweat-free sleeps later, and she can confidently confirm the brand’s claims—these linens feel as smooth as silk. Plus, they offer all the usual benefits of bamboo: they’re hypoallergenic and cooling, which went a long way towards keeping Foy comfortable and dry throughout the night. Other reviewers echo her sentiments, writing, “It’s such a treat to have super soft, comfy sheets to cover up with each night. They do wrinkle pretty easily but I like the lived-in look…and will only buy Ettitude from now on.”

There are a couple of caveats, however, worth mentioning. For starters, Foy wouldn’t describe her set as taut-fitting as the standard. These provide a little extra wiggle room, though not to the point of looking sloppy or sliding off the mattress. Foy also noted some minor piling after several washes, but the problem seemed to resolve itself after she switched over to air-drying only.

Best Colors: Sunday Citizen Premium Bamboo Fitted Sheet

Premium Bamboo Fitted Sheet, Queen, Sunday Citizen ($100)

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Sizes: Queen and king | Return policy: Within 90 days | Care: Machine-wash cold

Why we chose it: The array of soft, soothing color options are easy on your (tired) eyes. 

These Sunday Citizen fitted sheets check all the boxes: They’re wildly soft, breathable even on the hottest of nights, and ultra-gentle for sensitive skin. They have one advantage that the other selections on this list don’t, though. Whereas those brands mostly stick to neutrals, Sunday Citizen offers an array of calming colors that cast a relaxing glow on your bedroom. There’s no going wrong colorwise, but we’re partial to the calming blush hue. Another feature we love? Their sets are top sheet-optional. So whether you’re firmly on Team Flat Sheet or somehow kick it to the bottom of the bed every night, you have the choice to include it in your set or not. 

Best Luxury: Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set

Bamboo Sheet Set, Queen, Cozy Earth ($295 was $369)

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Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and split king | Return policy: Within 100 days | Care: Machine-wash cold

Why we chose it: Oprah Winfrey calls them “the softest ever,” and we agree.

Our tester piggybacks on Oprah Winfrey’s enthusiasm for these bamboo sheets from Cozy Earth, noting their butterlike softness. Their cooling capability is no joke either, even when put to the test during the first steamy nights of summer. Before you even take as much as a nap on them, though, you’ll be impressed by the charming (and practical!) tote bag the set is packaged in. That makes them especially perfect to travel with or gift to a luxury-loving friend. You’ll pay a pretty penny for this set, but when taken care of properly, they should last you at least a decade. If they don’t, they’re covered by Cozy Earth’s warranty. 

Best Soft-to-the-Touch: Pom Pom at Home Bamboo Sateen Sheet Set

Bamboo Sateen Sheet Set, Queen, Pom Pom at Home ($345)

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Sizes: Twin, queen, king, and California king | Return policy: Within 30 days | Care: Machine-wash cold

Why we chose it: These aren’t made of cashmere, but they sure do feel like it.  

Not wanting to get out of bed because your sheets are too soft? That’s a good problem our tester ran into. (Whether or not your boss buys that excuse is another thing.) Pom Pom at Home’s bamboo sateen is that soft. “Soft, smooth and most importantly of all breathable, these feel like climbing into a cloud,” photo editor Andie Diemer says. “They seemed to get softer with each wash, and they keep my always-running-hot husband cool throughout the entire night.” She notes that while they do have some natural wrinkles after each washing, it’s by no means a deal breaker; the gentle feel and their hypoallergenic qualities more than make up for it. Whether you’re seeking sheets that are right for sensitive skin, cooling for hot nights, or simply supple, these sheets have got you covered. 

Best Budget: Quince Organic Bamboo Viscose Sheet Set

Bamboo Viscose Sheet Set, Quince ($109 was $229)

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Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king, and California king | Return policy: Within 365 days | Care: Machine-wash cold

Why we chose it: We won’t blame you if you’re tricked into thinking this set is made of silk.

This set of Quince sheets veers so far into the silky-soft realm that it would be easy to confuse them for actual silk. They’re not, though. This set, which gets a serious thumbs-up from our tester, boasts all the benefits of bamboo sheets (like being hypoallergenic and having temperature-regulating abilities) with the luxurious feeling of silk. Win-win. Note: Our tester warns that the sheets are a bit wrinkly upon first opening, but you can combat that with a gentle wash and by taking them out of the dryer immediately. 

Best Cotton-Bamboo Blend: The Company Store Bamboo Sateen Sheet Set

Bamboo Sateen Sheet Set, Queen, The Company Store ($146 was $209)

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Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, and king | Return policy: Within 90 days | Care: Machine-wash cold

Why we chose it: Enjoy the breathability of cotton and the softness of bamboo in one sheet set. 

If you’re not ready to let go of a long-standing cotton sheets habit—we understand!—compromise with this soft-as-can-be cotton-bamboo blend. Our tester attests to their butteriness, which gets even softer after a few washes and more than a few nights’ rest. There’s a five-star-hotel–like luxury to these sheets. (Minus the room service, but plus the comforts of home.) They are smooth without being slippery and somehow always look and feel fresh, if you’re procrastinating doing laundry. 

How We Chose These Products

We would never underestimate the power of sleep. We’d never underestimate the power of a good sheet set either. Knowing those two are closely connected, we thoughtfully tested these bamboo sheets to give you our honest opinion on the best sets. They all had to come from reputable brands, include a reasonable return policy, and be ultra-easy to care for. An Oprah endorsement doesn’t hurt either. 

Our Shopping Checklist

Material and Weave

We read the material makeup of these sets carefully. Bamboo sets are often made of rayon, viscose, or Lyocell, all of which are derived from bamboo fibers, and we wanted to represent each of these options. Don’t overlook the weave either. A sateen weave has a silky feel with a slight sheen and is tough at resisting wrinkles. A percale weave, on the other hand, is more wrinkle-prone but offers a crisp, lightweight feel some prefer. 

Breathability

One of the biggest perks of bamboo is its top-notch breathability, and our picks had to live up to this standard. They also had to be moisture wicking for the hot sleepers among us. So long, night sweats!

Ease of Care

Even though bamboo is more delicate than, say, cotton, the care for each of these sets is supereasy: Machine-wash them with cold water, then gently tumble dry. As long as you keep them away from a hot washing or drying cycle, they should serve you well for years to come.

Ask Domino

Q: What are bamboo sheets made from?

At the heart of bamboo sheets is, of course, bamboo. The stalks are harvested into small pieces, processed into a pulp, and then put through a chemical process to become yarn. Not all bamboo sheets are created equal, though. The full makeup of bamboo sheets varies widely by brand and often includes Lyocell, rayon, or viscose that are all derived from bamboo fibers. 

Q: Are bamboo sheets eco-friendly?

The eco-friendliness of bamboo sheets is a touchy topic. Bamboo itself is considered sustainable, since it grows quickly, doesn’t require fertilizer, and self-regenerates from its own roots. But there’s more to the story.

“Even though bamboo is considered a green option, the most commonly used methods for manufacturing bamboo sheets include processes and products that can have an outsize environmental impact,” says Byron Golub, director of product and merchandising for bedding company Saatva. “Think: chemical-laden wastewater.” That process? Not so eco-friendly. So it’s important to always do your homework. 

Q: Are bamboo sheets cooling?

Yes! Bamboo sheets’ ability to keep you cool is one of its biggest advantages over other fabrics. On average, bamboo sheets stay two or three degrees cooler than cotton sheets throughout the night. They’re quick to wick away moisture, too, so no more sweaty bedhead in the morning. 

Q: How do I wash and care for bamboo sheets? 

Always refer to the care instructions for the specific sheets you buy. If you’ve lost or cut out the tag, scan the brand’s website—you should find care recommendations there. In general, most bamboo sheets are machine washable in cold water; you can tumble dry on a gentle cycle. When cared for properly, bamboo sheets can stay in tip-top shape for up to 15 years. 

The Last Word

As much as we love cotton and linen bedding, there are serious upsides to bamboo sheets: They are ideal for sensitive skin, keep you cool at night, and are silky soft, to boot. Our advice? Make room in your linen closet for a set of each. 

The post Slip Into the Best Bamboo Sheets for Sweet—Not Sweaty—Dreams appeared first on domino.

It seems like every other day there’s a new It candle. (Have you seen Hope’s Night Scented Candle or Piglet’s Country Garden?) To that we say: The more the merrier. According to Sylvana Kiss and Sasha Zinshtein—the creative couple behind Casa Ziki, a housewares and gift shop with storefronts in Brooklyn and Woodstock, New York—the candle market is crazily saturated right now. Keeping up with the trendiest sniffs is like chasing perfect sunsets, which makes choosing a signature scent (or even a few) for your home into a sport. We test heaps of candles, and our 24 top picks are below, including those that are a part of our permanent rotation and new-to-market favorites that we’re eyeing right now. Light ‘em up.

Our Favorites

• Best woodsy candle: Keap Wood Cabin
• Best floral candle: Diptyque Baies 
• Best earthy candle: D.S. & Durga Big Sur After Rain
• Best musky candle: Trudon Abd El Kader 
• Best fruit-forward candle: Flamingo Estate Roma Heirloom Tomato
• Best fresh candle: Byredo Cotton Poplin

New Favorites 

As we said, there’s always a new candle debuting from beloved brands and newcomers. We stay on top of what’s out there, and here’s what we’re feeling right now. 

Petrichor Candle, 13 oz, Flamingo Estate ($115)

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Tepoztlán Candle, 8.5 oz, Nopalera ($48)

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Baies and Roses Duo Valentine’s Day Edition, 190g, Diptyque ($156)

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Byredo Choco Mascarpone Candle, 8.5 oz, Neiman Marcus ($94)

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Flamingo Estate just dropped its annual limited-edition candle, Petrichor. It’s oversize, equipped with two cotton wicks, and made from 100% vegetable wax. The scent is created by microbes in the soil interacting with warm water, with hints of myrrh, amber, vetiver, sage, and eucalyptus. The brand calls it an “invitation to wash away what no longer serves you.” Burn it for 85 hours and then reuse the recycled glass vessel elsewhere. Diptyque’s Baies scent might not be new, but these adorable heart-adorned mini vessels are—and they’re perfect for gifting to your special someone. Nopalera, a Chicana-owned body-care brand we love, just released three candles with reusable vessels (re: margaritas); we’re very into the copal and sandalwood notes of the Tepoztlán. Byredo, which you’ll see throughout this guide, just gave us Choco Mascarpone, full of roast coffee, floral jasmine, bitter chocolate, and patchouli.

Best Woodsy Candles

Keap Wood Cabin Candle, 7.4 oz, SHW ($55)

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Lucali & Joya “Al Forno” Scented Candle, 6.5 oz, Joya Studio ($48)

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Forest Sun Candle/Teacup, 6oz, M.Hainey by Mizu ($67)

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Piñon Soy Candle, 7.2 oz, P.F. Candle Co. ($24)

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Keap has somehow distilled the scent of our ideal setting—being parked next to a long-lingering fire, a warm beverage in hand—and ensconced it in wax. The Wood Cabin scent is a mélange of cedar, palo santo, and fireside embers, and you can almost hear it crackling. Other woodsy darlings: Joya Studio’s brick-oven-inspired collab with Brooklyn pizza haunt Lucali; P.F. Candle Co’s Southwest-inflected Piñon; and M.Hainey by Mizu’s Forest Sun, meant to evoke a stroll among trees. Stylist and market guru Cat Dash is crazy about all of Joya Studio’s candles. “The company does the coolest collaborations, and the candles are truly crafted in an artistic way,” she says. “The vessels are so special. Really, everything about them is special.” 

Best Floral Candles

Baies Candle, 190g, Diptyque ($74)

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Frama 1917 Candle, 170 g, Ssense ($85)

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Maison Louis Marie Kandili Candle, 8.5 oz, Jayson Home ($38)

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High Ceiling Resort Lobby Candle, 8 oz, Vacation ($34)

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Floral doesn’t have to mean punch-you-in-the-face begonias. Exhibit A: Diptyque’s Baies. Named for berries, it’s the lively rose accents here that really sing and make your space smell like the lobby of a five-star hotel. Vacation’s High Ceiling Resort Lobby candle takes that even more literally, inspired by exactly what it’s named for (with fresh-cut flowers and an ocean breeze fragrance). Danish darling Frama’s 1917 puts bergamot and lilac front and center, and perfume go-to Maison Louis Marie’s Kandili leans into jasmine, tuberose, and white lily. 

(Take note: No matter which scent you pick, be mindful that Diptyque candles can tunnel—when only the middle part of the candle melts—if not burned properly. It’s a good idea to actually read the instructions here.)

Best Earthy Candles

Big Sur After Rain Candle, 7 oz, D.S. & Durga ($70)

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Midnight Soak Candle, 8.3 oz, Audo Copenhagen ($85)

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Ginori Profumi Luchino Rain Rock Creek Scented Candle, Abask ($104)

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Sandstone Candle, 8 oz, Glossier ($45)

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Earthy is wide-ranging, and for good reason: to encompass both land and sea. The idea with this category is to evoke a fancy gym, one that might have a calming steam room and extremely fluffy towels. D.S. & Durga’s Big Sur After Rain is exactly what we want to burn to get that vibe, with its Cali coastal notes of rain, eucalyptus, and wet wood. More to love in this category includes Audo Copenhagen’s Midnight Soak; Rain Rock Creek from Ginori 1735 and Luke Edward Hall; and Glossier’s Sandstone.

Best Musky Candles

Trudon Abd El Kader Classic Candle, 9.5 oz, Ssense ($105)

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Slow Burn Candle, 8.5 oz, Boy Smells ($56)

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Byredo Sweet Grass Candle, 8.5 oz, Nordstrom ($94)

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Malin+Goetz Leather Candle, 9 oz, Amazon ($64)

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The French really seem to know what they’re doing when it comes to making candles, especially those of the musky persuasion. While there’s a lofty price tag attached to Trudon’s Abd El Kader, it’s still our favorite in this category—it has a superluxe scent and makes your space feel that way, too. The Normandy-based brand can trace its candle origins back to 1643, and the product looks as good as it smells, with a dark vessel and gold branding. Boy Smells makes seductive candles, and its collab with Kasey Musgraves is spicy, smoky goodness with incense, black pepper, and guaiac wood. The brand uses packaging that “provokes outdated ideas of gender and identity woven into the social fabric,” explains cofounder Matthew Herman. “We make nontraditional fragrances for modern, complex identities.” Burning Byredo’s Sweet Grass is like sage-ing your home, and Malin + Goetz’s aptly named Leather speaks for itself. 

Best Fruit-Forward Candles

Roma Heirloom Tomato Candle, 8 oz, Flamingo Estate ($58)

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Le Labo Verveine 32 Classic Candle, 8.6 oz, Nordstrom ($84)

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Loewe Orange Blossom Candle, 5.8 oz, Neiman Marcus ($110)

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Ralph Lauren Amalfi Coast Scented Candle, 9.3 oz, Nordstrom ($65)

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We all know the tomato is a fruit, but this is a tiny reminder that those trendy scented friends land here. Our favorite of the moment is Flamingo Estate’s Roma Heirloom variety, a ripe juice bomb reminiscent of late-summer dinner parties. If your brain goes right to citrus in this space, make sure to add Loewe’s ribbed Orange Blossom to your cart, or Le Labo’s Verveine, an homage to verbena leaf and makrut lime. If you need to be transported directly to Italy in the dead of winter, give the fig- and cassis-laden Ralph Lauren Home Amalfi Coast a light. 

Best Fresh Candles

Byredo Cotton Poplin Candle, 8.5 oz, Nordstrom ($94)

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Voluspa French Linen Luxe Candle, 30 oz, Nordstrom ($68)

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Garden Party Clean Blossom Candle, 8 oz, Otherland ($40)

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01 “Taunt” Massage Candle, 9 oz, DedCool ($55)

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There’s just something about fresh laundry—starched shirts, fluffed linen—that offers a clean, crisp scent to your surroundings. Byredo’s Cotton Poplin borrows quite literally from that idea, mixing chamomile, cedar, and musk with a backbone of metallic iron. Voluspa’s French Linen calls to mind a just-made bed on a windows-open afternoon, and Otherland’s Clean Blossom goes all in on sheets drying on the line, maybe near a flower-laden bush. We’re big fans of DedCool’s detergent, and its Taunt scent comes in a candle, too. 

Our Shopping Checklist

Types of Wax

Not everyone can agree on which wax is best, so we’re breaking down the basics that you’re likely to come across in your search. 

• Paraffin may not score many sustainability points as a petroleum-based product, but it’s still tapped by candlemakers for its ability to hold scent and color. 
• Soy wax is hydrogenated soybean oil that has gained headway as a top alternative to paraffin. Herman notes Boy Smells candles, made mostly of beeswax and coconut wax, include trace amounts of organic soy wax to improve stability and more effectively diffuse fragrances. This wax also has a lower melting point than paraffin, elongating its burn time.  
• Beeswax is just as it sounds: a byproduct of honey bees used to build and fill their hives. It is naturally dripless (a high melting point translates to a slower, smokeless burn) and considered a renewable product. This is why our photo editor, Andie Diemer, is always on the lookout for candles that are 100 percent beeswax (and swears by bluecorn beeswax tapers).   
• Coconut wax may be new to the scene, but it’s already a featured blend in some of our favorite picks. While a bit on the pricey side, it does everything the above waxes do and more: It retains both color and fragrance and produces little soot. 

Ingredients and Scents

Candles don’t necessarily offer a nutritional-label level of detail on ingredients, but the bottom of the container sometimes includes clues to the makeup of your fiery friend. Not to set off any alarms, but you do breathe in what you burn; it’s why most experts we chatted with prefer natural ingredients over manmade ones, whether it’s the wick (stick to cotton, wood, or hemp) or the wax. We recommend avoiding plastics like resin and artificial fragrances whenever you can—for example, keep an eye out for words attached with -phthalates—and opt for essential or natural fragrance oils. 

Casa Ziki’s Kiss and Zinshtein have seen an uptick in additions like dried herbs and essences that conjure a place or lifestyle. “If a scent can trigger a memory for someone, that can be super-powerful,” they point out, listing Dancecandles as a prime example. 

Herman’s take? Be playful and try new things. “Every fragrance I have burned in my home or worn on my body has opened me up to new perspectives,” he says. “They are like looking through color lenses. I have tried things I thought I would not like but ended up loving.”

Burn Time

You don’t want a candle that burns so fast that it feels like you were barely able to enjoy it. How quickly your candle burns away is often described in hours, and this number can vary depending on all sorts of factors, whether it’s the wax type or weight, size of the container, number of wicks, even the length of it. For instance, a longer wick will produce a bigger flame, burning your candle faster (yes, this is why trimming is so important). 

Ask Domino

Q: When—and how often—should I trim a wick? 

You might be surprised to hear that there is 100% a wrong and right way to burn your candle, and according to Herman, it all starts with whether or not you’re trimming the wick. In order to ensure a clean, smoke-free burn, the experts all agree to shave off about a ¼ inch of your wick prior to each lighting. 

Q: Any other dos or don’ts of candle care I should keep in mind? 

The most important step in candle care is allowing the entire surface of wax to melt the first time it’s lit to prevent tunneling. In general there’s a sweet spot of time for this, hovering somewhere between two and three hours, though never any longer than four. Carbon can gather on your wick and force it to balloon up into a mushroomlike cap if you keep it lit too long, though it can even happen when a wick is too large and fails to burn at the same rate as your wax. Whenever this does happen, don’t panic: Just reach for your handy-dandy wick trimmer (or nail clippers; they complete the job just as well!). 

If taller or sculptural candles are starting to look a little wonky or misshapen compared to the first day you brought them home, it might be a result of where you’ve placed them, warn Kiss and Zinshtein. “Temperature and climate can have a huge effect on candles, so think twice before putting your brand-new twisty taper in your window or by a heater,” they explain. In fact, Cire Trudon specifically suggests keeping candles in a dry, temperate environment between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: Can (or should) you mix candle scents? 

This all depends on you and how sensitive your schnoz is. Kiss and Zinshtein have enjoyed  experimenting. “We typically try to stick with a ‘one scent per room’ rule, but we have also often surprised ourselves with mixing and matching,” the duo notes. “We haven’t found anything that clashes too badly, but at the end of the day just follow your nose!” Of course, if you’re looking to light more than one flame to relax during bath time or to create some ambience at the dinner table, you can never go wrong with an unscented option, particularly in the shape of a pillar or taper. 

How We Chose These Products 

After tapping the Casa Ziki crew, Boy Smells founders, and Dash on how they decide which candles they love best—they take all sorts of things into consideration, from original designs to nontoxic scents—our editors pooled together picks by scent, from woodsy to floral and everything in between.

The Last Word 

Scent is powerful, but it isn’t the only characteristic you should look out for in your search for the best candles. Whether you’re sensitive to strong smells or looking for a candle that doubles as a sculptural conversation starter, there are plenty of choices on the market to peruse—just keep wax types, natural ingredients, and original designs in mind.

The post Our Scent-by-Scent Guide to the Best Candles appeared first on domino.

Reading up on Domino’s shopping guides is like having your own personal product concierge. We do the tedious part—deep-dive research, hands-on testing, and tapping experts for advice—so all you have to do is hit “add to cart.” That’s why we call them Simply the Best.

If you love silky-soft sheets but don’t want the fuss of actual silk, you should consider sateen. Not to be confused with satin, sateen isn’t a different fabric but a type of cotton weave—a three- or four-over-one—that imparts a slight sheen on the top layer and seals in warmth, making it an ideal pick for cooler environments and sleepers.

Stylists prefer sateen because it “offers a sleek look that’s a bit more rich and velvety than percale,” says interior stylist Colin King. “It’s luxe but durable.” And it’s also easy to care for. If you’re on the hunt for something extra buttery but low-maintenance, shop our picks for the best sateen sheets on the market, below.

Our Favorites

• Best overall: Parachute Sateen Sheet Set
• Best organic: Coyuchi Organic Sateen Sheet Set
• Best budget: Quince Luxury Organic Sateen Sheet Set
• Best prints: Dusen Dusen Bedding Sheet Sets
• Best budget prints: Target Threshold Printed Performance Sheet Set
• Best lightweight: Morrow Organic Matte Sateen Sheet Set
• Best colors: Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set
• Best sustainable: Lola & Veranda Organic Sateen Bedding Bundle
• Best scallops: Serena & Lily Scalloped Sheet Set
• Best ultra-splurge: Sferra Giza 45 Sateen Collection

Best Overall: Parachute Sateen Sheet Set

Sateen Sheet Set, Parachute ($169)

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Crafted from Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Egyptian cotton and sewn in Portugal at a family-owned mill, Parachute’s sateen sheet set is one of the softest we’ve ever tested in the mid-price range. It features a pearlescent sheen and back envelope closure so your pillows don’t poke through, making crawling into bed every night a dream. Available in five neutral colors—including newly added blush and fawn—with the option to purchase with or without a flat sheet, they drape richly over a bed and layer well within a natural palette (think: rattan headboard, bone linen bolsters, and a textural marled wool throw).

Best Organic: Coyuchi Organic Sateen Sheet Set

Cloud Soft Organic Sateen Sheets, Coyuchi ($278)

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Buttery soft with a slight sheen, these sheets made our tester feel toasty but never overheated. Packaged in a cute reusable cloth bag—no plastic here—this bedding is GOTS certified (a step above Oeko-Tex, where every step of production is verified organic and socially responsible), Fair Trade certified (workers are fairly compensated), and Made Safe (no harmful toxins, such as carcinogens, flame retardants, or endocrine disruptors). The brand even has a recycling program called 2nd Home, where you can return used products for 15% off your next set to ensure that your bedding never ends up in a landfill.

Best Budget: Quince Luxury Organic Sateen Sheet Set

Luxury Organic Sateen Sheet Set, Queen, Quince ($100)

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Compared to popular sheet brands, Quince’s price tag is one of the lowest—we’re talking less than $100 for a queen set (fitted, flat, and two pillowcases)—that offers the same high quality we’ve come to expect from fancier brands. Organic, Oeko-Tex certified, breathable, and using only long-staple cotton fibers, these sheets are heralded by reviewers as “supersoft” and  “great quality” at an “unbeatable price.” 

And we agree: They are definitely the biggest bang for your buck. The sheen is subtle and the feel is smooth, and each set is finished off with a single needle-stitch cuff detail. Quince sheets feature a deeper pocket—16 inches—so you don’t have to worry about constantly tucking them back around the corner of your mattress. The “top” and “bottom” labels also mean you can spend less time wrestling with your sheets, and they’re cooling, to boot. Plus you have an entire year to sleep on them to decide whether you like them or not before returning free of charge. 

Best Prints:  Dusen Dusen Bedding Sheet Sets

Mat Bedding Sheet Set, Queen, Dusen Dusen ($188)

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If you’re looking for a statement sateen sheet set, no one does punchy patterns like Dusen Dusen. Squiggly doodles, neutral checks, chunky grids, playful polka dots, bold and cheerful stripe combos, color-blocked mats—all come in a lustrous, 300-thread-count sateen and are made in Portugal. These promise to soften after every wash, but just be sure to stick to cold water and tumble dry. Sadly, some sizes have continued to teeter in and out of stock at DWR, especially since the Brooklyn designer dropped the latest batch last fall, but we have our fingers crossed everything will be fully available again soon. For the latest launches, head to Dusen Dusen’s site.

Best Budget Prints: Target Threshold Printed Performance Sheet Set

Threshold 400 Thread Count Printed Performance Sheet Set, Queen, Target ($50)

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If you’re on an extremely tight budget and seeking less mod patterns, this Target find is even more affordable than Quince and features the same extra-deep fitted sheet. Available in 10 styles (and two more here) including prim stripes and romantic vines, these 100% cotton, Standard 100 Oeko Tex–certified sheets prove that great bedding doesn’t need to be expensive.

“I’ve slept on sets from all the trendy brands, but these Target 400-thread count sheets are my favorite,” says Domino digital director Lindsey Mather. “Not only is the cotton soft straight out of the packaging, but the fabric feels, for lack of a better word, sturdy. I’m not worried about them wearing thin or ripping before a year is even up, which yes, has happened with other sheets that sell for hundreds of dollars more.” But don’t just take our word—they also come backed by 8,000-plus positive reviews on Target. 

Best Lightweight: Morrow Organic Matte Sateen Sheet Set

Organic Matte Sateen Sheet Set, Twin, Morrow Soft Goods ($155)

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Some people shy away from sateen because they prefer a more matte look or find the weave a bit too dense and heavy. But Morrow’s organic matte set solves both of these concerns. Available in seven colorways, including rich terracotta, this modern take on sateen is lightweight and breathable due to the brand’s proprietary weaving techniques. Similarly, its shine-free finish was achieved after three years of experimenting with various dyeing methods. Plus there’s a slight hem on the pillowcase, which sports a side envelope enclosure so your pillows never slip out. Sometimes it’s the little details that count.

Best Colors: Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set

Luxe Core Sheet Set, Full, Brooklinen ($152 was $179)

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It’s hard to find quality sateen sheets in a good assortment of colors, but Brooklinen’s set is an exception. This 480-thread-count offering is available in seven “essential” colorways, from graphite to blush, and an additional seven limited-edition shades (when ordered directly via the brand’s website), including lemon and white stripe and toasted almond, a mellow blush.

Best Sustainable: Lola & Veranda Organic Sateen Bedding Bundle

Organic Sateen Bedding Bundle, Queen, Lola & Veranda ($640)

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When a friend told our deputy editor, Julie Vadnal, about Lola & Veranda, a newish company that sources its GOTS cotton (organic, eco-friendly, and socially conscious fibers) from India and weaves it into soft and breathable sateen, she immediately wanted to try it out. For one, she appreciated its polished palette and funky patterns. But what really took the cake was its zero-waste model, which was like nothing she’d ever seen before.

When you purchase your linens, you choose between queen and king sets, then choose between subscribing and buying a seven-piece bundle outright. The price clocked above is a bit of a misnomer in that case: It only applies if you buy the bundle right that second. But if you purchase a subscription, you pay a onetime $99 fee, and then you’re billed monthly. That option unlocks the best part of Lola & Veranda: You can return your sheets every six months via a prepaid label for a new pair. The old linens are then either restored and resold at a discount, donated, repurposed as tote bags or eye masks, or rewoven into fiber again. (You can cancel your membership within 30 days for a full refund, no questions asked.) Small details like subtle pillowcase embroidery and the duvet cover’s peekaboo corners that allow you to easily tie it your comforter seal the deal. 

Best Scallops: Serena & Lily Scalloped Sheet Set

Scallop Sheet Set, Serena & Lily ($278 was $348)

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If you’re the kind of person who loves subtle design details, you’re going to love this scalloped sheet set. The 300-thread-count offering features a delicate curved edge that’s embroidered in white, navy, sky (think: baby blue), or pink sand (a nudish blush)—and will instantly play up a whimsical bedroom without being too fussy. Not only do these sheets look good, they feel really, really good and are Oeko-Tex certified. So if you’re on the hunt for something that’ll push you out of your classic white sheets comfort zone without veering into block-color territory, this option from the Sausalito, California–based brand should be at the top of your list.

Best Ultra-Splurge: Sferra Giza 45 Sateen Collection

Queen Giza 45 Sateen Fitted Sheet, Sferra ($992)

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If you are looking to invest in your bedding, consider the Giza 45 collection by Sferra, an Italian brand whose commitment to expert-level artistry and high-caliber materials is nearly unparalleled. Crafted from Giza Egyptian cotton—an even more luxurious form of typical Egyptian cotton that creates longer and thinner yarns— these sheets live up to their luxe reputation. The fabric feels as plush and decadent as velvet, but because the threads are so fine, it is also supremely breathable. You have to buy each piece separately, however, and the full look will cost more than $1,000.

More Sateen Sheets We Love

Queen Signature Sateen Sheet Set, Saatva ($235)

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Queen Clara Sateen Sheet Set, Peacock Alley ($189)

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Queen Wrinkle-Free Sateen Sheet Set, The Company Store ($194)

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Queen Washed Cotton Sateen Sheet Set, BR Home ($160)

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How We Chose These Products

A good sheet set is to great sleep what good cookware is to great food—you need quality stuff to really get it right. Several Domino editors and writers have slept on a range of sheets to find the very best, and have equally taken into account reviews, brand reputation, price point, maintenance, and style (especially for those we have yet to gain firsthand experience with). But we’re always on the lookout for new products to try, and plan to routinely update our list of the best sateen sheets as soon as we catch wind of something noteworthy. 

Our Shopping Checklist 

Thread Count

Thread count is the number of threads in a square inch of fabric, and it’s one of the determining factors for quality and feel in cotton sheets. The ideal thread count for sateen is 300 to 600, says Logan Foley, managing editor at the Sleep Foundation. Unlike percale, which has a one-over-one weave and an ideal thread count of 180 to 300, sateen’s three- or four-over-one weave allows for more threads to be fit into a square inch, making it a denser and generally softer sheet.

You can absolutely find higher thread counts, especially from luxury brands that use superfine Egyptian cotton threads, but beware of marketing gimmicks. Just because something has a high thread count does not mean that it’s high quality. Craftsmanship and the type of raw materials used are equally important—for example, Upland cotton versus Egyptian, with the latter being rarer, more expensive, and undeniably softer. A lot of times, manufacturers will use cheap raw materials or double, even triple, fold threads to inflate thread count in order to charge more.

Softness and Feel

Unlike percale, the other popular weave for cotton sheets, sateen is undeniably smoother and can feel almost like silk. It’s also heavier, so if you tend to sleep hot or live in a very warm environment, this might not be the best pick for you.

Caring for Sateen Sheets 

It’s always important to read the care instructions for textiles. In general, however, sateen sheets should be cared for similarly to all cotton sheets: Wash in cold water and line or tumble dry on a low heat setting. High heat can shorten the life span of your bedding by affecting the integrity of the threads. You should also invest in four to eight dryer balls; we recommend ditching the fabric softener and dryer sheets, as those can coat your bedding in softening agents rather than keep them clean. 

The Last Word 

If you find percale to be too crisp, jersey too warm, or linen too wrinkly, then sateen is a happy medium. Softer with a slight sheen on the top that calls to mind silk, sateen is less expensive and low-maintenance but offers that same buttery feel that’ll hug your body, keeping you warm all night (but not sweaty like flannel), and comes out of the dryer looking supersmooth.

The post Buttery Soft With a Subtle Sheen, the Best Sateen Sheets Tick All Our Boxes appeared first on domino.

After a holiday that revolves entirely around a set table, maybe you’re a little more aware of the gaps in your tabletop collection. As in: You almost had enough napkin rings for 12 settings or you realized that your vases were a bit too tall and blocked conversation. If things just felt flat, it’s very possible that adding a table runner would take care of all the jazzing up you need.

Some use a runner as a substitute for a tablecloth, while others prefer to layer the two. We say there’s no right or wrong. If we’re being honest, table runners serve no function at all; but like adding a throw blanket to the end of the bed, they just make things look a little more complete.  

When it comes to picking the best table runner, we can lead you in the right direction—but it really comes down to personal style. Are you all about pattern? Looking for a natural linen moment? Seeking a graphic stripe? The good news is that a runner is often less expensive than a tablecloth, which means you might be able to pick up a little bit of everything. 

Our Favorites

• Best solid: Sferra Festival Runner
• Best striped: Matouk Apollo Stripe Tablecloth 
• Best floral: Furbish Yadira Table Runner
• Best budget: Food52 Everyday Soft Cotton Table Runner

Solids

Solids don’t have to be boring. Contrast stitching, fringe, and crochet trim are subtle, but give the following picks a bit of interest. We’re partial to Sferra’s Festival runner, not only for its delicate hem stitching but because it comes in 22 colors. Categorized by neutral, earthy, cool, warm, and bold, Sferra offers an entire rainbow of colors. 

Festival Runner , Sferra ($83)

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Scallop Trim Runner, Schoolhouse ($14 was $35)

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Craft Fringed Deep Indigo Cotton Table Runner, Crate & Barrel ($55)

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Marietta Table Runner, Anthropologie ($68)

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Stripes

We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again: You can’t go wrong with a stripe. Matouk’s take, inspired by antique textiles, comes in trending baby blue–printed cotton. Made in the U.S. with fabric from Portugal, the subtle black zigzag pattern makes it stand out from your typical lines on lines. While the brand’s bedding is certainly a splurge, we were delighted to find that the Apollo runner is just $79. 

Apollo Stripe Tablecloth, Matouk ($79)

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Stripe Cotton Table Runner, Dusen Dusen ($46 was $62)

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Grid Runner by All Roads, Hawkins New York ($100)

Stripe Table Runner by Carlotta Oddone, Artemest ($100)

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Florals

Runners cover only part of the table, but with the right pattern, they can still pack a punch. These eye-catching floral options are strong enough to stand on their own, making the rest of the styling process a breeze; your table will look festive even with simple white plates and everyday glasses. Furbish is known for its block-printed table linens, and its runners are no exception. (Just look at the Yadira runner’s scalloped contrast edging.) Offered in 13 colorways, they’re 100% cotton and made in India. 

Yadira Table Runner, Furbish ($49 was $58)

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Morning Glory Table Runner, Atelier Saucier ($84)

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Mia Block-Printed Table Runner, Soil to Studio ($90)

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Love Flower Cotton Table Runner, Lisa Corti ($112)

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Budget

Even though runners are often more affordable than tablecloths, they can still cost a pretty penny. We love these budget options just as much as the rest, and they just so happen to be a fraction of the price. Our favorite is from Food52’s in-house line, Five Two. It’ll take you from everyday meals to full-on dinner parties, all while being low-maintenance—no ironing or dry cleaning necessary. It’s on sale for $18, so won’t feel too precious to use.  

Everyday Soft Cotton Table Runner by Five Two , Food52 ($18 was $45)

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Open Weave Natural Table Runner, CB2 ($31 was $45)

Linen-blend Table Runner, H&M Home ($17)

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Riviera Cotton Table Runner, West Elm ($25 was $40)

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Our Shopping Checklist

Dimensions

Table runners range in size a good amount (meaning they’re all over the place). Widths can be as narrow as 12 inches or as wide as 20 inches. Many are offered in multiple length sizes to match different tables. On the smaller end, you’ll typically find 72 inches, which is appropriate for a table that is 4 feet and under. On the larger side is 157 inches, which fits up to an 11-foot table. 

We like to see at least a foot of the runner hanging down on either side so that it flows elegantly and doesn’t end too abruptly, and it’s important that, if you are layering your runner with a tablecloth, the runner is equal or shorter in length; a panel hanging off the end might look awkward—it’s cleaner to see a straight line. If you’re running into that issue, you can always fold the runner over itself in the center of the table and hide the seam with a centerpiece or serving bowl.

Material and Weave

Because table runners aren’t a functional aspect of tabletop, they could be any material or weave your heart desires. Lace, grasscloth, velvet, linen—they’re all great as long as you love the look. However, we do recommend washable fabrics for convenience. 

Design

Because table runners are offered in such a wide variety of patterns and hues, we recommend owning a few. With a couple of solids and a great pattern in your linen closet, you’ll be ready for anything. 

Ask Domino

Q: How do you know which runners and tablecloths to pair together?

Our advice is to cast one as the star of the show and the other as a supporting actor. For example, if you have a bold floral tablecloth, consider selecting a runner in a solid that matches or complements a color found in the pattern. 

Q: Is it okay if my plates overlap with the edge of the runner?

Yes, we actually prefer when something breaks the lines of a runner, as to not make it feel like a runway going down the middle of the table. 

Q: How do I DIY a table runner? 

DIYing a table runner is a great way to save money and get the dimensions exactly as you want, down to the centimeter. Just cut the fabric and sew a simple hem. If sewing is not your thing, stitch witchery will get the job done. And if you’re looking to make it even simpler, keep the edges unfinished. 

The Last Word

If your table feels like an overwhelming blank canvas, adding a runner creates structure to accessorize from—line up tapers, flowers, little bowls of condiments, or seasonal decorative produce. While a runner may seem over the top for casual dinners, it actually simplifies the table-setting process and makes it look more complete with less fuss. 

The post These Runners Will Make Your Dinner-Party Table Look Instantly Set appeared first on domino.