You might think that making a bed is a straightforward task.
For most, the bed set-up includes a fitted sheet, top sheet, and some form of blanket, be it a quilt, comforter, or duvet. Surely, there can’t be that many variations in dressing a bed, right?
However, it appears that a significant number of people have only just discovered what they believe to be the ‘correct’ way to lay a top sheet after years of doing it their own way.
The conversation was sparked by a woman’s Facebook query regarding how others make their beds, following a visit from her mother-in-law.
In her post, she wrote: “My MIL is staying with us for a couple of weeks and I noticed she puts the top sheet on her bed upside down. I changed it once, but she changed it back.”
She continued, somewhat perplexed: “It’s kind of embarrassing to ask her, but why would anyone put the top sheet upside down?”
Her question struck a chord online as it went viral – amassing hundreds of likes and comments. And many sided with the mother-in-law’s method as the ‘correct’ one.
Several commenters explained that this approach ensures that any print on the top sheet is visible when the bedding is folded over. One commenter stated: “If it has a print it is so when you fold the blanket and sheet back the print shows.”
Another supported this view, adding: “So when you pull back the sheet it is the pretty side.” A third person shared: “A friend of mine does this too. So when it’s folded down it appears to be on the correct side.”
A consensus emerged among many that this method was indeed the “normal” way to do it.
Ethical Bedding has issued guidance for those who opt to use a top sheet, advising it should be loosely laid across the mattress with the upper edge aligned with the mattress’s top edge.
They explained: “Make sure that on each side of the bed, there is an equal amount of top sheet hanging down.”
Further advice from the company includes: “If the top sheet is patterned, place the sheet on the bed with the patterned side down. The top of the top sheet gets folded over the overlaying blankets or duvet so the pattern will be displayed nicely. Similarly, place the silky side of the top sheet face down so that your body feels the benefit of silky sheets.”
Despite the long-standing tradition of using a top sheet, its popularity has waned since the introduction of easily removable duvet covers in the 1960s and 70s. Nonetheless, in warmer climates where a duvet may prove too warm, the top sheet remains a favoured choice.
Now, whether you’re a top sheet aficionado or not, you’re clued up on the ‘correct’ way to dress your bed!
