In implementing a new bedding program for its 130-plus properties, Candlewood Suites considered the needs of its employees as much as the comfort of its guests. The InterContinental Hotels Group chain recently completed installation of the Comforts of Home Bedding Collection throughout the chain. In the last 100 days of the rollout, 100 Candlewood properties installed nearly 11,000 mattress sets.

The collection features housekeeper-friendly bed skirts and duvet covers with inserts. The E-Z-Skirt wraps around the box spring, eliminating the need to lift the heavy mattress to attach or remove the skirt, which is made of a wrinkle-free, no-iron material. The duvet works like a sleeping bag. It's open on two sides so the insert can be slipped in and snapped to the cover.

Installation was simplified with Candlewood's Bed in a Box program. Bedding arrived at each hotel pre-laundered. Bedding sets for each room were placed in boxes and distributed to each suite where they were installed while guests were away.

The residential-style bedding sets included an upgraded mattress and box spring with a mattress topper and fluffy duvet inserts and poly-cotton covers that match the hotel's color scheme. The beds have triple sheeting with 250-thread-count micro-check sateen sheets. Completing the set are cotton blankets, choice of three pillow types in firm, medium and feather, and a decorative “Consider Us Home” pillow.

All properties have studio and one-bedroom units, each with full kitchens, desk, VCR/DVD and CD players and recliners.