In today’s surprisingly sizable world of bedding options, there are several terms you’ll want to get familiar with when it comes to sheets.
Two of those terms are “flat sheet” and “fitted sheet.” If you’ve heard these terms, perhaps you’ve wondered, “What is a flat sheet vs. a fitted sheet?”
Ahead, we’ll explore the differences between a fitted vs. a flat sheet so you can confidently shop for new sheets for your bed.
What is a flat sheet?
“A flat sheet, often called a top sheet, is the unsung hero of bedding,” says Kasandra Rafter, founder and designer at Canyon Creative Design. “It’s that elegant, rectangular layer that floats between you and your duvet or blanket.”
Beyond its practical purpose of protecting your bedding, Rafter says a flat sheet “adds an extra layer of comfort and style—think of it as the couture layer of your sleep ensemble.”
What is a fitted sheet?
A fitted sheet is the foundation of any beautifully-made bed, says Rafter.
“With its elasticized edges, it hugs your mattress like a perfectly tailored suit, staying crisp and secure no matter how much you move during the night,” she explains. “It’s the essential base that starts every bed design on the right note.”
Flat sheet vs. fitted sheet
Here’s how Rafter sums up the differences between a fitted sheet vs. a flat sheet: A flat sheet is predominantly about versatility and artistry—it can be tucked, draped, or layered to create a tailored or relaxed vibe.
On the other hand, a fitted sheet is “all function, designed to keep your mattress protected and your bed feeling sumptuous,” she says.
Pros and cons of flat sheets and fitted sheets
As with anything that enters your sleeping space, there are some advantages and disadvantages of each type of sheet.
Pros of flat sheets
First, one pro is that flat sheets are all about aesthetic versatility, Rafter notes. This means they can be layered for texture or tucked in for a more precise look.
She also says flat sheets can protect your duvet or blanket, helping to keep them fresh longer. And, in general, flat sheets will add a tailored, finished look to your bed.
Cons of flat sheets
Then there are some cons to think through. Flat sheets can shift during the night if they’re not tucked in properly, Rafter says. Plus, they do require a bit more effort to style and maintain, she adds.
That must be why flat sheets tend to be optional—and actually, they aren’t used very commonly in Europe.
Pros of fitted sheets
As for fitted sheets, Rafter likes that they have the ability to stay snugly in place, “keeping your mattress beautifully dressed.”
Additionally, they create a smooth, polished surface that feels inviting. Fitted sheets are available in a variety of depths to fit even the most luxurious mattresses, adds Rafter.
Cons of fitted sheets
Fitted sheets have their downsides. “Folding them can feel like an art form in itself,” Rafter says. “And over time, elastic can lose its integrity.”
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FAQs
Why do hotels use flat sheets instead of fitted?
“Hotels often opt for flat sheets for their sheer versatility,” Rafter says. “A flat sheet can double as a bottom or top layer, simplifying logistics. Plus, their clean lines and lack of elastic make them easier to press, giving that crisp, luxurious look we all associate with a five-star stay.”
What’s the point of a flat sheet?
Rafter says the flat sheet is about layering—both in style and comfort. “It’s a protective layer for your duvet or blanket but also a design statement,” she says. “It adds a touch of sophistication, whether it’s tucked in for a tailored look or left loose for an effortlessly chic feel. It’s that little detail that makes a bed feel considered.”
Do you sleep on or under a flat sheet?
“You sleep under a flat sheet,” Rafter says. “It’s your cocoon, nestled between the fitted sheet below and your duvet above. For me, it’s the layer that adds a soft, luxurious touch to the sleeping experience.”
Is a flat sheet better than a fitted sheet?
Rafter says it’s not about better necessarily—instead, it’s about harmony. “The fitted sheet is your foundation—an essential starting point,” she says. “The flat sheet is where you bring in personality, texture, and flair. Together, they create a perfectly balanced bedscape, combining structure and artistry.”
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