High-quality bed linen is the main condition for sound sleep and joyful awakening. A well-chosen sheet serves as a decoration for the bed, does not crumple, does not form folds, does not fall on the floor, saves heat in winter and refreshes in summer.
When buying a sheet, consider not only the colour and size of the product but also the material, and style, and pay attention to the packaging.
Which sheet is better to buy – classic or stretch?
First of all, you need to choose a style. Not all bedding is the same, but there are standards. Depending on the cut, the following types of sheets are distinguished:
- rectangular – a classic of the genre! – the edges of the fabric are folded under the mattress or hang freely;
- on an elastic band – the best choice for a bedroom with a bed; along the perimeter of the textile product, an elastic band is sewn in, which securely fixes the sheet on the mattress.
Stretch sheets are easy to use, and their advantages are obvious:
- do not stray;
- put on the mattress with one easy movement;
- they do not have to be tucked and corrected daily;
- if necessary, replace the mattress cover.
However, a stretch sheet is not suitable for all furniture. For example, it cannot be used on a sofa with armrests and a backrest, on a bed of a non-standard size or in an original configuration. In this case, give preference to a regular sheet without an elastic band.
How to choose a sheet by size?
The dimensions of bed linen are determined based on the dimensions of the bedroom furniture. If you purchase a sheet with an elastic band, its measurements should correspond to the length, width and (for some models) thickness of the mattress. For a regular rectangular sheet, add a few centimetres to the hem.
Standard sheets are divided into groups:
- for children (sizes range from 70×140 to 120×160),
- single beds (100×200 – 140×200),
- one and a half sleeping (150×200 – 230×250),
- double (180×210 – 240×260),
- euro size (200×240 – 240×280),
- family / duet (240×280 – 260×260),
- “king-size” – for very spacious “royal” beds (260×280 – 280×320 cm).
For a round mattress, it is possible to buy a special sheet with an elastic band (diameter 200 or 220 cm).
The fabric from which the sheet is made
Not only the appearance depends on the material, but also the service life, the rules for caring for the sheet, as well as your feelings during sleep. To decide which sheet is ideal for your bedroom, it is helpful to familiarize yourself with the properties of fabrics:
Silk and cotton sheets are created from natural raw materials. They have a pleasant texture, allow the skin to breathe, and perfectly absorb moisture.
In the winter season, it is comfortable to sleep on a sheet made of fleecy fabric such as flannel or terry.
Smooth, “sliding” fabrics: keep you cool in the summer heat.
If you are looking for a solution that is universal for any season, you may like practical linen or inexpensive synthetics.
Fabrics have properties that the buyer needs to know about to make the right choice. Let us consider in more detail the main characteristics of the materials.
Coarse calico
Calico sheets are a great option for every day. Dense and durable bed linen looks attractive, is inexpensive, lasts a long time, withstanding 300 or more washes without damage.
Benefits of calico sheets:
- durable;
- does not shed and does not lose the brightness of colours;
- does not slip;
- does not cause allergies.
The variety of colours allows you to choose calico sheets for a bedroom in soothing colours, as well as for a bright design in avant-garde or modern style.
Knitwear
Knitwear is a highly stretchable, elastic fabric. Knitted sheets with elastic fit the mattress without wrinkling.
Advantages of cotton jersey sheets:
- soft;
- hygroscopic;
- breathable;
- easy to wash in the machine;
- do not deform;
- dry quickly.
With delicate and hygienic bed linen, the surface of the bed will always be neat, and sleep will be healthy and restful.
Satin
Satin textiles organically fit into the interiors of bedrooms. The properties of satin are similar to silk.
Advantages of satin:
- dense,
- wear-resistant,
- underwear made of this material is shiny, smooth, does not wrinkle, and looks elegant.
Bed sets made of natural cotton satin are more popular than silk analogues, because sheets and duvet covers do not slip, and the price is also lower.
And yet silk is something magical!
Natural silk
Silk sheets are highly appreciated by lovers of luxury. Natural silk is one of the most mysterious and beautiful materials. Delicate touches of flowing fabric not only give bliss but also take care of the skin, and rejuvenate the body.
Advantages of silk:
- the fabric “breathes” and perfectly absorbs moisture;
- not electrified;
- the structure of the silk fibre prevents the accumulation of dust, and the growth of bacteria;
- does not cause allergies, does not wrinkle, and with careful care, it lasts for many years.
Elite silk underwear – plain or with an exquisite pattern – is suitable for special occasions (a gift for a wedding!) and everyday use.
Mahra
Terry products combine practicality and attractiveness in an external view. Terry sheets made of cotton will surely appeal to those who like to soak up the warmth on a frosty morning or evening when a blizzard sweeps outside the windows.
Advantages of terry sheets:
- warm and soft;
- non-slip;
- absorb moisture;
- change the blanket in warm weather;
- durable;
A cover sheet will be a wonderful gift for a loved one or an original decoration for a small cosy bedroom.
When purchasing sheets, proceed from personal preferences and the style of your home. Pay attention to the quality of the fabric, the brightness and durability of the colour, and the accuracy of the machine stitch. A good sheet should not shed and fade after washing. Choose bedding home textiles wisely, and the purchase will delight you for a long time.