When you buy a bed sheet set it usually comes with pillow cases and two different types of bed sheets. The general assumption, of course, is that the pillow cases are used to cover the pillows and the fitted sheets are what you will use to cover the bed's mattress. Some people are baffled when they find another bed sheet, which isn't fitted but is rather a flat sheet. Let's distinguish each of the two sheets and see the purposes they serve.
Features
The physical difference between these two sheets coming off the package is pretty much obvious. The fitted sheet has something like an elastic garter or band that manufacturers have sewn into the sheet's corners. Other than that, they appear to be quite the same. It is obvious that flat sheets are easier to fold since you don't have to work on the corners. Obviously, fitted sheets can't be laid flat on any surface unless you stretch the corners over a mattress.
Functionality
There is a reason why one sheet is called a bottom sheet and the other is called a top sheet. Obviously one goes on top of the other, which is more of a quick guess or hunch. If you thought of it that way then you are right. The fitted sheets are shaped according to the contours of the mattress. Each size of fitted sheet will match certain mattress sizes.
A fitted sheet is basically used to protect or cover your bed's mattress. On the other hand, a flat sheet will be laid over the fitted sheet and tucked in the sides and bottom of the bed. For this reason the fitted sheet is called the bottom sheet and the flat sheet is called a top sheet.
Top sheets serve as a type of welcoming bed spread. It also serves as a protective layer for comforters. This basically means you don't have to wash your comforters that often and you only need to wash the top sheet next time you get to do the laundry. In case the nights are warmer, you can skip the comforter and just sleep in between your sheets.
Fitting
You only need be concerned about fitted sheets when matching or fitting them with your mattress. These sheets can only fit mattresses to a certain depth. You should check the package labels to see what mattress depths are covered by a certain size of fitted sheets. You don't have to worry about fitting your top sheets since you just tuck it in and not fit them onto the mattress.
Purchasing Considerations
Other than getting the matching size of sheets for your bed you should also consider the fabric used. You should also match the colors and styles of the sheets with the decor you have in your room.
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