Summer Sleep Essentials

Sometimes when I can't sleep, I imagine the most perfect night of sleep. Windows open to let in a light, summer breeze. A pile of fluffy pillows on my bed. Lots of room to stretch out. 

The sort of bed where I can let all my cares go...

via Traditional Home

My ideal sleep would be a lot like our recent trip to Chicago.

Marriott

We stayed at the Marriott on the Miracle Mile and the bed was one of the most comfortable I've ever slept in. It had all my favorite things: lots of pillows and just the right amount of covers.

via My Domaine

In fact, hotel rooms are a great inspiration for the way I like to decorate bedrooms. The three takeaway tips:

1. Only the Essentials
Hotel rooms are impersonal spaces, which is an advantage when it comes time to go to sleep. You can rest easy because there aren't messes needing to be cleaned up or projects waiting to be done. Only the things most important to you end up on your nightstand, which also usually has a lamp for reading late into the night.

2. Indulge the Senses
Open the windows wide for the fresh air and the sound of crickets chirping, or turn on a fan for a similar effect and some white noise. Spritz your room with lavender essential oils. Cover the windows with room-darkening drapes if you like to sleep late. Which leads us to...

3. The Best Bedding
Sleep on the best sheets, pillow cases, and duvet cover you can afford for a truly luxurious experience. I'm really intrigued right now by Parachute, a premium quality bedding company that sells directly to consumers for reduced prices.

Parachute

Parachute was founded by Ariel Kaye, who had an amazing night of sleep in a hotel room on the Amalfi coast (is there anywhere in the world more beautiful?? I don't think so). Unable to find the same quality bedding to purchase, Kaye created it. 

via Go Italy

Parachute also gives back by partnering with Nothing But Nets, an organization that provides mosquito netting in malaria-stricken parts of Africa. 

Right now you can receive $20 off your $200 purchase at Parachute by using the code BACKTOSCHOOL at checkout. This offer expires September 15, 2015.

What are your summer sleep essentials??