It might be a surprise to you to find out that there is a debate raging on whether it is best to use a fitted sheet, or to just use a flat one. If you’ve even had this debate, wondered about it – or are just hearing about this for the first time – read on to find out the pros and cons of each type of bedding, and to know which is the best one for you.
What are Flat Sheets and Fitted Sheets?
Flat sheets are a rectangular shape, finished at the edges, but without any kind of elastic or three-dimensional shape to them. Fitted sheets, on the other hand, have corners sewn into them and most often have elastic sewn in on two or four sides as well. This additional structure allows them to wrap around a mattress, covering it in the same way a car cover, or grill cover works.
Why would you choose each type?
Fitted sheets are usually used as a cover for the mattress, and the sleeper gets into bed on top of the fitted sheets.
Some people just use a flat sheet for this, folding it under the mattress to keep it in place for the night (this often has to be redone each day, as a flat sheet used in this way shifts and comes loose in the night).
Some use a fitted sheet for the under layer, and add a flat sheet overtop, between the sleeper and the duvet or blanket used for warmth.
