Choosing bed sheets is not just a matter of walking into a linen store and picking a colour to match your bed linen. There is more to it than that. We’re breaking down the differences for you so that you can make the right purchase.
Fitted bed sheets verses flat bed sheets?
It really comes down to personal preference. A fitted bed sheets is elasticated on the sides and wraps around the corners of your mattress resulting in a snug look.
A flat bed sheet, also known as a top sheet, is a piece of fabric that you cover the mattress with and then fold and tuck the corners underneath the mattress.
Fitted sheet advantages and disadvantages
- Elasticated sides make it easier to tuck underneath the mattress
- Harder to iron and fold
- Snug look
- Stays firm and smooth throughout the night
- Standard sizes do not fit extra length/ extra width beds
- Tends to get less wrinkled as it stays in place
Flat sheet advantages and disadvantages
- Easier to iron and fold
- Trickier to tuck underneath the mattress as the corners need to be folded
- Does not stay in place, tends to come loose if you move around a lot
- Gets wrinkled easily
- Fits both standard and extra length/ extra depth beds
Know your fabrics
The type of fabric matters! Therefore, it is important to know the different types of fabric. Fabric types may range from microfibre (soft touch), poly cotton, percale to 100% cotton fabric. Each type of fabric has a different look and feel to it. The price of the product will also differ based on the type of fabric used.
While microfibre bed sheets are great for a warmer sleep experience, the more affordable and durable, poly cotton bed sheets are best for heavy usage. Percale bed sheets on the other hand are perfect all year round and is a favourite amongst hotels and guesthouses. 100% cotton bed sheets are gentler on the skin and are hypoallergenic.
Selecting the best type of bed sheet for you simply comes down to understanding the differences and know what you like.