USEFUL TIPS
How To Make a Bed the Right Way
7 min read
7 min read
Not much can compare to slipping into a nicely made bed at the end of a long day.
The crisp sheets, the cozy blankets, the perfectly placed pillows...pure bliss. But let’s be honest.
When it comes to actually making that bed? It can be more like a nightmare. Hospital corners? What in the world are those? A duvet? Is that necessary? How many throw pillows is too many throw pillows?
If you’ve ever felt lost when it comes to making your bed, you’re not alone. Don’t worry, though. We’re here to explain how to make a bed the right way in just a few easy steps.
What Supplies Will You Need
Before you begin, you should make sure to have the right supplies on hand. This list may look different from person to person, but we’re going to get you set up to make a bed the way you would see at a 5-star hotel or that cozy AirBnb you stayed at last vacation. Feel free to pick and choose in order to create the perfect room for you.
Mattress Pad
Some people swear by the mattresses they own, but a good mattress can be difficult to come by. You’re better off finding the perfect mattress topper to give you extra cushion, more firmness, or anything else you feel you need out of your bed.
Mattress and Pillow Protectors
One tip for getting more use out of your mattress and pillows is to use a protective cover over them. This isn’t necessary, but it’s especially helpful to save your mattress from stains, in shared spaces, or when you’ve inherited a mattress from someone else.
Bed Skirt
This is another optional item, but it can really pull together your whole bedroom look. A bed skirt goes down around your bed’s box spring, and it hides the not-so-cute pieces of your bed, as well as any storage you may use underneath.
Sheets
Now we’re talking about the required items for the perfect bed. One of the most important decisions you’ll make when it comes to your sleep space is the type of sheets you use. There are so many different kinds, and we’ll dive into that a little later.
But for now, just keep in mind the two key pieces of a set of sheets:
- Flat sheet
- Fitted sheet
Some people may opt to skip the fitted sheet for another flat sheet, and others may forgo the flat sheet altogether and just use a blanket or comforter instead (did you know there’s a pretty intense debate about this?). It’s all up to personal preference, but using a flat sheet is typically recommended to cut down on how often you have to wash your bulkier items.
Blankets
If you tend to sleep on the sweaty side, you can probably skip this step. But for those who like to cozy up, the next item you’ll need to factor into your bed-making plan is your blanket (or blankets). Whether you put them on top of your fitted sheet or over your comforter, this item adds an extra layer of comfort and warmth, especially during the winter months.
Comforter or Duvet
Now comes the time to express your personal style with the top layer of either a duvet or a comforter. If you’re looking to recreate the comfort of a hotel bed, consider a classic duvet! A duvet is a cover that is typically filled with feathers or another type of duvet insert.
For a more comfortable, cozier option, find the perfect comforter. Of course, these come in all different colors and patterns, but if you want to recreate the feel of a hotel room or fancy AirBnb, stick to a white or neutral comforter or duvet for that extra layer of class.
Pillows
Assuming you’re making a queen or king-size bed, you will need at least two pillows. That alone could complete the look. But if you’re hoping to add a little flair, consider getting a few throw pillows as well.
One big tip about pillows: don’t overdo it. Consider keeping the number odd and adding no more than three throw pillows. More than that can become impractical when it comes time to actually get into bed!
A Six-Step Guide to Making a Bed
Whether you’re making the bed alone or with a partner, this six-step guide will help you find the most simple and technically “correct” way to make a bed. There’s nothing to fear; this task doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s dive in, so you can get to sleep!
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Start fresh: Make sure your bed is totally clear, and your supplies are all on a separate surface. Try to avoid putting anything on the floor, and opt for a chair, couch, or laundry basket instead.
It’s not a bad idea to start mentally fresh as well! Do something fun like putting on a TV show or turning on your favorite music and make this an enjoyable task for yourself. - Put on the fitted sheet: This part is definitely easier with a partner, but it’s not impossible to do alone. First, identify the long and short sides. Then, simply pull it over your bed corners and tuck it in so that it’s nice and tight. Don’t worry if it takes a few tries; you’ll get the hang of it in no time.
- Add the top sheet: If you’re using a patterned sheet, put the dull side facing down so if you pull it over your comforter later, you can see the pattern. Here’s where those scary-sounding hospital corners come into play. To make hospital corners, follow these steps:
- Tuck the bottom of the sheet tightly into the mattress at the foot of your bed.
- On the right bottom corner, grab the sheets that are draping over the side, and pull them to the top of the mattress.
- Grab the extra part of the sheet that is still hanging down, and tuck that in under the mattress.
- Fold the final piece down, and tuck that under the mattress as well.
- Repeat on the other side of the bed.
- Place your comforter or duvet: If you’re using a duvet, you likely won’t be folding your top sheet down, so leave a little space between the top of the duvet and the top of your mattress for layering pillows. If you’re using a comforter, you can pull it up higher.
- Turn down your sheets, and add your blankets: Turning down your sheets involves folding your top sheet up over your comforter. If you’re going for a hotel vibe, fold your blanket and drape it across the bottom quarter of your bed.
- For your final touch: Add the pillows! Start with the basic pillows you’ll use for sleeping, then add your throw pillows.
These simple steps will have your bed looking fresh and clean in no time.
How Often Should You Make Your Bed?
If you’re wondering if making your bed each day really makes a difference, research says...yes! This might not be the news you’d like to hear, but making your bed every morning can help with many things, including:
- Improving your mood
- Improving your sleep
- Improving your focus
So, your parents weren’t just getting on your case for no reason. Making your bed every day can actually lead to an improved quality of life. Of course, if you skip a day or two, it will be okay.
If making your bed seems to be a difficult chore to get in the habit of each day, consider simplifying things. If you have a lot of pillows, for example, downsize and keep it to one or two.
How Often Should You Clean Your Bedsheets?
This is the magic question, isn’t it? Unmaking your bed and washing your sheets just might be worse than making it in the first place! Most experts recommend washing your sheets once a week, or more frequently if you have pets that sleep in bed with you.
How often you wash your sheets can also depend on what type of sheets you have. If you don’t enjoy the time and effort it takes to wash your sheets and remake your bed; our Miracle Sheet Set might just be your perfect match.
Infused with natural silver, Miracle sheets are naturally thermoregulating and prevent up to 99.9% of bacterial growth. This means you can spend more time lying on your sheets and less time washing them.
Final Thoughts Before Tucking in for the Night
Keeping your bed nice and fresh can help you enjoy a better night’s sleep. Instead of dreading the task of making your bed, turn it into an enjoyable activity by making it fun and breaking it down into our six easy steps. It doesn’t have to be too complicated to get the bed of your dreams.
The Mental Health Benefits of Making Your Bed | VeryWell Mind
