You spend an average of eight hours a night snuggled up to them so, if you haven’t already, it’s time for you to get properly acquainted with your bed sheets.
So, let’s start by answering one of the most common questions around bed sheets: what is the difference between a fitted bed sheet and a flat bed sheet?
A flat sheet (used on top) is a rectangular sheet, whereas a fitted sheet (used on bottom) has its corners, and sometimes sides, fitted with elastic.
Read on to learn more about the purpose of a flat sheet vs fitted sheet and the advantages of each.
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You might be wondering, “What is a fitted sheet?” Known also as a bottom sheet, a fitted bed sheet can be easily recognized by its four elastic corners used to hug the perimeter of your mattress. Whether you prefer tencel vs cotton material, a fitted sheet serves as a protective barrier for your mattress, and its soft even surface provides you with an added layer of comfort as you sleep each night.
Using fitted sheets on your bed boasts a number of advantages. Here are a few to consider:
Flat sheets, as the name suggests, lay flat on top of your bed. Also known as a top sheet, they can be tucked under the bottom corners of your mattress but may not stay as securely in place because they lack the elasticity of a deep fitted sheet.
Though many people agree that a fitted sheet is a standard bedding essential, there is a bit more controversy surrounding the use of flat sheets. Many older Americans believe that bedding sets are not complete without top sheets, while some younger members of the millennial generation believe them to be extraneous.
Here are some of the arguments that support the use of a top sheet:
If you don’t have a fitted sheet in your linen closet, a flat sheet can be a viable alternative to protecting your mattress and ensuring a good night’s sleep. Though, the corner-hugging features of a fitted sheet are helpful if you’re wondering how to keep sheets on your bed. However, a flat sheet is still an option to consider if you’re in a pinch.
Avoid getting tied up in knots overnight by following these steps to turn your flat sheet into a snug-fitting bottom sheet:
Here’s how to get crisp corners that won’t come untucked while you sleep:
Are fitted bed sheets better than flat sheets? That answer really depends on you!
The flat sheet vs. fitted sheet debate will likely continue to be a hot topic of discussion as time goes on. Some sleepers will remain faithful to the flat sheet, while others will find no need for it as long as they’ve got a duvet or a blanket for comfort. And, as you’ve just seen, a fitted sheet may not be a necessity if you’ve learned to master the flat sheet swap.
As with other things such as footwear and clothing, bedding is another personal possession that often comes down to individual preferences. What’s a comfortable sleeping habit for you might be bothersome for someone else, and vice versa.
To that end, fitted sheets tend to offer a more slip-resistant option for protecting your mattress than flat sheets. If you choose to skip flat sheets altogether, you’ll want to keep your duvet clean by purchasing a duvet cover.
If you’re unsure about deciding whether a flat sheet or a fitted sheet is right for you, don’t worry. You can easily figure out whether going with or without these sheet types leads you to the best possible sleep.
Here’s how:
Whatever you decide, there is no right answer to the fitted vs. flat sheet debate. There’s only what’s right for you and your sleep.
Fitted and flat sheets each have their own unique uses and sets of advantages, but both should be treated with the same amount of care. Since sweat, bacteria, and skin cells can build up on your sheets over time, it’s important to stick to a regular cleaning schedule to avoid having the same kind of grime seep into the fibers of your mattress, too.
According to Healthline, sleeping on dirty sheets can even trigger things like eczema or contact dermatitis. Additionally, if you’re one of 24 million Americans who suffer from allergies, soiled sheets can cause symptoms such as sneezing and congestion to become worse.2
Here are key preventative measures you should be taking to help them withstand the test of time. A few tips to consider when caring for your sheets:
Take good care of your sheets, and they’ll repay the favor by maximizing the quality of your sleep cycle.
Fitted sheets, flat sheets, or both? Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge to distinguish between the two, you can be a better judge of what’s right for you. Opt for a full set of breathable Hyperlite cooling sheets if you know you’re a sweaty sleeper. Or snuggle up to an ultra-soft set of Sateen Sheets made of 100 percent organic cotton from Portugal.
Whatever your sheet and sleeping preferences, Casper cares about keeping you cozy so that you can catch the highest quality Zs.
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