How to Make a Bed: Placement of Bed Sheets

Make bed sheets smooth for a neat appearance

Few people have the desire or time to make their beds in the morning, but it is relaxing and comforting to return to an attractive, neatly made bed at the end of a long day. A well-made bed also makes a bedroom look inviting and hospitable. Bed sheets are a necessary part of the bed-making process. They must be placed in the right order for the user's comfort.

Things You'll Need

• Bottom sheet, fitted or flat
• Flat sheet
• Blanket
• Bedspread
• Pillow protectors
• Pillow cases

Instructions

1. Place a bottom sheet on the mattress. If you're using a fitted sheet with elastic at the four corners, slip the pockets of the sheet over the corners of the mattress. If it is a flat sheet, place it on the bed so that at least one foot of the fabric is draped over each side of the mattress in preparation for hospital corners. Tuck the sheet under the mattress at the head and foot of the bed. Lift a corner of the remaining loose sheet and place it on top of the mattress at a 45-degree angle. Make it as smooth as possible. Tuck in the part of the sheet hanging beneath the angled edge. Bring the angled edge down and tuck it under the mattress. Repeat this process on the last three corners.

2. Place the flat top sheet on the bed. Ensure that the end with the larger hem is at the top end of the mattress up by the headboard. Place a blanket on top of the flat sheet. Make hospital corners at the end of the mattress with the flat sheet and the blanket. Fold the top of the flat sheet and blanket back so that the edges are about halfway down the mattress. Tuck the sides of both under the mattress.

3. Cover the bed with a bedspread or duvet and fold it back at the top so that it reveals the area where the pillows will be. Slip the pillows into pillow protectors to prevent them from getting stained, then slip them into pillowcases. Tuck the loose edges under and place the pillows, folded edges down, on the spot just above the folded bedspread. Pull the bedspread gently to cover the pillows. Part of the bedspread should remain tucked under the pillows.