Bed sheet

Bed sheet is a rectangular piece of cloth used as bedding, being placed immediately below or above bed occupants. Bed sheets can generally be divided into two categories: "top" and "fitted" sheets.

A fitted sheet is an elastic-lined bed sheet used to cover and protect the mattress. It has four corners, and elastic around the entire edge to prevent it from slipping off the mattress during use.

A top sheet, also known as a flat sheet, is the sheet that occupants lie underneath. Top sheets are standard in the U.S., but much of Europe prefers to use duvet covers.

Bed sheets are typically made from a variety of materials, including cotton, linen, silk, and synthetic fibers. They often have decorative elements such as embroidery or lace edging.

History

The use of bed sheets has been traced back to ancient Egypt, where they were used to protect against the harsh desert sand. The Romans also used bed sheets, and they were commonly used throughout the Middle Ages.

In the 15th century, bed sheets began to be made from linen, a material that was easier to clean and more comfortable than previous materials. The invention of the spinning jenny and the cotton gin in the 18th century made cotton a more affordable material, and it quickly became the most popular material for bed sheets.

Types of Bed Sheets

There are several different types of bed sheets, including:

• Percale: A closely woven, plain-weave fabric that is typically used for bed sheets. It is durable and has a crisp feel.

• Sateen: A type of fabric made using a satin weave structure but made with spun yarns instead of filament. It has a soft, silky feel.

• Flannel: A soft, warm fabric that is often used for winter bed sheets.

• Jersey: A type of knit fabric that is soft and stretchy. It is often used for t-shirt sheets.

Care and Maintenance

Bed sheets should be washed regularly to remove dirt, sweat, and allergens. Most bed sheets can be machine washed and dried, but some materials, like silk, may require special care.

See Also

• Bedding
• Duvet
• Blanket
• Pillowcase