What Is The Ideal Number Of Pieces In A Comforter Set? How Many Is Too Many?

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Having a bed that's fully made up and waiting for you can be a relaxing experience. Using the perfect formula for making a bed means having the right pieces. You don't have to do anything more than pull back the covers and get into bed — it's a bit of self care after a long work day. When it comes to putting your bed together, that requires having the right linens. One easy option is to pick a comforter set, but deciding how many pieces you need can be confusing. Sticking to a smaller comforter set is often more flexible for styling your bed. 

Traditionally speaking, comforter sets feature a comforter and pillow shams, at minimum. However, there are sets that also include decorative pillows, a bedskirt, sheets, and pillowcases. It really does depend on the brand and just how deluxe the set is meant to be. There are collections with as few as three pieces and as many as 10 components, such as the Lux Decor Collection Queen Comforter Set from Walmart.

However, when you pick up a comforter set with more than three or four pieces, particularly sets with sheets and pillowcases included, you're committing to the look. This might mean a single color or patterned bedding set without any additional colors or designs to add depth and dimension to your design. That can start to look a little too put together and boring. In many cases, it's a better idea to purchase a smaller comforter set of just three pieces — comforter and shams — and then add in the other pieces you want to create the perfect sleeping oasis. While a 10-piece set gives you a full bed in a bag, a six-piece set might be the max for someone who wants to add more depth in the bedroom.

Purchasing a full comforter set with more than three or four items can be good if you want an easy way to make up a guest bed in your home. However, if you want to create a primary bedroom that feels inviting and calming, while still adding a bit of visual depth and texture, it's best to put together your own bedding combination. Starting with a four-piece collection with the comforter, two shams, and a bedskirt creates a solid foundation. Then, pick bedsheets in cozy materials that are right for you for a cozy design that works in your space.

When starting with a traditional comforter set, bring in sheets that add more color or a pattern to create texture and contrast. Next, incorporate pillows and shams that coordinate while adding some contrast, through pattern or color, and choose the right throw blanket for your bed to add another layer of texture. These pieces add a cozy feel, while creating a focal point on your bed.

Although you can purchase collections with pillows, often found in six-piece or larger sets, they may not be nice quality pillows. It's actually better to choose your own pillows that look good within your design — you get more variety and can control the shape and quality of the accent pillows. Sticking with the three- or four-piece comforter sets is the best option, because you can choose the other bedding items you want, including the sheets and pillow cases, for a unique pop of color or design separate from the comforter set.