Flat Sheets

Flat sheets (AKA top sheets) are hotly debated. Some people can’t fathom sleeping without one. For others, they're a relic of bedrooms past.

What's the purpose of a flat sheet? Do you actually need one or can you go without? Let's get into it.

What is a flat sheet?

A flat sheet is the non-elastic sheet in most standard sheet sets. Usually, the flat sheet lays atop the body. If you use a traditional sheet set, you sleep on the fitted sheet and under the flat sheet!

The invention of the fitted sheet is relatively recent, only being patented in the late 1950’s. Prior to that, there were only flat sheets, which were used to cover a mattress or whatever else (bale of hay?) one was sleeping on. To keep them on the bed, the sides had to be folded under the mattress with the corners tucked into what we know as ‘hospital corners.’ This method is finicky and can come undone in the night.

Fitted sheets with elastic corners were introduced to solve this problem (thanks Bertha!), but instead of replacing the flat sheet, the flat sheet remained part of the system, becoming more like a light cover or a barrier between the body and a heavier blanket.

(It’s worth noting that most hotels still use a flat sheet to cover the mattress! Flat sheets are easier to wash and dry and it’s easier to maintain stock of one type of sheet than two!)

Pros of using a flat sheet:

• You have to clean your duvet cover less often.
  The top sheet acts as a protective layer between you and your duvet cover. Even with a top sheet, your duvet cover will need to be washed regularly, but the time in between washes can be stretched a bit.
• They add warmth for cold sleepers.
  A top sheet provides an extra layer that can help insulate you further, albeit marginally.
• They can be used as a blanket on their own.
  Top sheets can be used as a lightweight blanket for hot sleepers or on the hottest summer days. You can simply throw your duvet to the bottom of the bed and cool off under the sheet.
• They can feel nicer on the skin.
  Depending on the material of your duvet cover, you may find it too rough against the skin (linen, for example). A soft, smooth top sheet may be more comfortable.
• They add visual interest to the bed.
  A top sheet provides one more element for styling the bed, especially when you fold it back so it peeks out over the duvet. Opting for a top sheet in a different colour or pattern than your duvet cover allows for fun colour-blocking.

Cons of using a flat sheet:

• They can tangle.
  One of the biggest complaints about flat sheets is that they can end up tangled at the bottom of the bed or can come untucked and end up askew.
• They create more laundry.
  This one speaks for itself – one more linen to launder every week.
• They add warmth for hot sleepers.
  Hot sleepers or those with warmer room temperatures need the lightest bedding possible with minimal layers!
• They hamper your duvet’s performance.
  In order for your duvet to insulate you and regulate your temperature, it needs maximum breathability. A top sheet, even when made of a breathable material, is an extra layer that prevents air and heat from passing through efficiently.
• They’re an added cost.
  If you don’t need the top sheet, opting for a single fitted sheet is more cost effective than buying a set.

At Canadian Down & Feather Company, we recommend skipping the top sheet if you can. Cover your mattress with one sheet (probably fitted, flat if you’re fancy) and sleep directly under your duvet and duvet cover. We’re down and feather people first, and if we believe that if you’re investing in a luxury duvet, ensuring it can perform optimally is most important.

We understand that taking off the duvet cover can be a pain, which is why ours unzip around 3 sides to make laundry day a little easier!

While this is our recommendation, we know that every sleeper is different. We sell all of our linens as separates so you can create the set that works best for you.

Are you Team Top Sheet? We want to hear your opinions!