It can become overwhelming to choose what type of bed sheets to use on your mattress because of the broad range of styles, types, and varying fits for all sizes of mattresses. To make the matter more confusing, try deciding what exactly you need to buy to fit your bed not only in comfort but also in style!
We all want to make the most of our sleeping hours, and there are certain things that people need in place to sleep better. Some people prefer lean pillows and some prefer fluffy ones. Some people prefer bedsheets tucked in, some prefer bedsheets tucked out. To some, the addition of a flat bed sheet is deemed as excessive, creating more work when making the bed. On the other hand, many consider flat sheets to be an essential part of the bedding set.
The confusion of choosing between fitted and flat bed sheets has been around for ages. Both flat sheets or fitted bed sheets serve the same purpose, to protect the mattress from stains or rips and shield your skin from common pollutants found in fabrics, while also providing a pleasant and comfortable surface to sleep on. But what's the difference between a flat and a fitted bed sheet?
Let’s take a look at the significance of a flat and fitted bed sheet
A flat sheet, rectangular in shape, is used as a layer beneath the blanket or duvet of the mattress whereas a fitted sheet is used as a second layer which has corners and is fitted with elastic to hold the corners of your mattress. A flat sheet can be tucked on the mattress but because of lack of elasticity, it may not stay securely in place.
Uses of flat sheet and fitted sheet:
Fitted sheets, which are also known as bottom sheets are used to cover and protect the mattress. Flat sheets, also known as top sheets, are placed on top of fitted sheets, below duvets and blankets. They protect your duvet covers and blankets from getting dirty.
The major difference between them is one simple factor, the corners of the sheet! Flat sheets are, as the name suggests, flat, whereas the corners of fitted sheets are elastic that allow the sheet to fit more securely on the bed.
Benefits of Flat sheet:
Protects you as well as your blankets
Placed just below the comforter or blanket, the flat sheet will cover your body while you enjoy your sleeping hours. Serving as a protective layer for your comforter or blanket, flat sheets also help to keep the duvet clean and free of stains as well as excessive sweating. If you use a fitted bedsheet, a flat sheet will also protect the bottom sheets.
Adjusts Temperature
Considered one of the biggest benefits, a flat sheet can help you to maintain a relaxed body temperature, by absorbing dampness and excess moisture. They will allow you to sleep better, and wake up feeling fresh and re-energized. On hot nights, a flat sheet may be the only thing keeping you safe from irritants, depending on your region. During cold nights, it can help you to stay warm.
Creates a wall
If you have sensitive skin, using a flat sheet will be your best bet against pollutants such as dust, mites, and bacteria which are known to live more than 5 years in your bed. Certain bacteria can leave your skin itchy and in rashes. For people with skin diseases like eczema, soft bed sheet materials such as cotton can help you relax by absorbing moisture from your skin. Hence, you should be looking for bed sheets ideal for sensitive skin.
Easy to clean
Washing your flat sheet is as easy as washing normal clothes. Just toss it in the washing machine with the remaining clothes using a mild detergent.
Benefits of fitted sheets:
Added Protection
As mentioned above, most mattresses' lifespan is 7-10 years. Using a fitted sheet will give extra years to your mattress by protecting it from wear and tear from irritants like dust, stains, or rips. When properly cared for, your mattress can last for 10-12 years.
Soft & even sleeping surface
The fitted sheet, which is held tightly on all corners will provide a level and smooth feeling resting surface. Along with its temperature-controlling properties, when the fitted sheet is properly-suited to your mattress, it will not come off easily because of its elasticity, preventing creases on your sheet.
Easy To Clean And Remove
Just pull the corners or remove the clasp of the fitted sheet, and the fitted sheet will come off the bed. Compared to quilted covers, which are generally thick and hard to remove, a fitted bedsheet is a lightweight, machine-washable product.
Can expand the life of your mattress
Even though mattresses are known to have a lifespan of 7-10 years, you can increase the shelf-life by protecting them from dust build-up with a fitted sheet.
Flat sheets Vs Fitted sheets: Which one is better?
Now that you know the difference between flat sheets and fitted sheets, you must buy a sheet that caters to your needs.
If you're purchasing fitted sheets, you need to know the correct size of your mattress to fit the corners properly. Buying the wrong size will become a nightmare. If you have a double bed, you will need a double fitted sheet. You also need to consider the height of your mattresses, as thicker mattresses require deep fitted sheets.
On the other hand, flat sheets have no such restrictions. You can go for any size of a flat sheet - queen or king-sized - and it will cover your bed as per your liking. Choosing high-quality cotton bed sheets for both your bottom sheet and top sheet is very important for comfort, as they are soft on your skin and much more breathable.
To end the age-old debate, we are giving our opinion here. Fitted sheets offer slip-resistant bedding that protects your mattress when compared to flat sheets. If you decide not to use flat sheets at all, you should get a duvet cover to protect your duvet from stains.
It’s about your taste and preference. There are various types of materials in the market that caters to your needs. Bedding is just another personal possession, hence it often comes down to individual preferences.
How to pick flat sheets and fitted sheets
Bedsheets are an essential part of the overall bedroom look. It can make or break the vibe, which encompasses style, luxury, and comfort. If you want to buy bed sheets, you’ve arrived at the right place. At EK, we’ve got classic & cotton-rich flat sheets that are designed by artisans. You’ll also find an extensive range of dohars in fantastic colours and designs ready to adorn your bed.
How to take care of flat sheets and fitted sheets?
- Wash sheets once a week
- Avoid using fabric softener
- Avoid going to bed with make-up or any stains on clothes
- Use stain removers to remove any stains
- Read the labels on your sheet and follow the washing method
- Use starch
- Make your bed every day
- Store sheets in a cool and dry place
FAQs
Which type of bedsheets is good for home - flat or fitted?
Flat sheets & fitted sheets offer several pros along with their cons. If you want to avoid making an extra effort in making the bed, you can exclude one of the sheets. If you exclude fitted sheets, you will have to keep up with the creases on your flat sheets and make sure it's tucked in properly. If you exclude flat sheets, you will have to spend extra money to keep the mattress and other layers of sheets clean and orderly.
Can we use both types of bedsheets together?
Yes, you can use both types of bedsheets together. It will give you an extra layer of protection from irritants and also help you to sleep like a baby.