Sheet Buying Guide | Fitted, Flat and Valances

 

Fitted Sheets, Flat Sheets, Valance Sheet and Platform Valance... there are many different types of Bed Sheets and it can all get a bit confusing! Read on to find out more about the differences between each sheet to help you decide which you need for your bed. You'll then want to decide which fabric and fitted vs flat sheets (including mattress depth) for each sheet.

 

 

Fitted vs Flat sheets

Fitted Sheets are the sheets that go over your mattress and have elasticated corners to keep them in place. You must choose one that fits the size and depth of your mattress, otherwise it will hang awkwardly on your mattress and will move around alot as you move around during the night. You lie directly on top of a fitted sheet, so take care to choose one that is comfortable against your skin.

Fitted Sheets are generally considered an essential bedding item. The majority of beds in Ireland will have one.

Flat Sheets (aka Top Sheets) lie between you and the Duvet or Blanket. They don't have elasticated corners and are basically just a large rectangular piece of fabric. In very hot weather, some people will prefer to throw the Duvet off the bed and just use the Flat Sheet on its own (though this is much more common in Hot countries)

A Flat sheet is generally tucked in under the mattress, so it can provide coziness and means air isn't getting in from the sides. Flat Sheets are generally less commonly used than Fitted Sheets, as many people feel that a Duvet on its own is sufficient. Some people however, prefer to use a Flat sheet as a Fitted Sheet (i.e. tucking it tightly under the mattress and sleeping over it)

What is a Valance Sheet?

 

A Valance Sheet is a type of fitted sheet designed to cover the base of a bed. They generally serve a decorative purpose and can conceal storage or clutter beneath the bed. You may wish to choose one that matches your fitted sheet and/or flat sheet to keep everything co-ordinated. This can be a great option especially if the base of your bed is a bit bland.

 

 

Types of Valance

 

Platform Valance

 

A Platform Valance lies flat on the bed base or box spring with a skirt hanging down the sides. It sits under the mattress which keeps it in place. You will need to lift the mattress to change this, but bear in mind it won't be slept on so likely won't need as frequent washing as your other bed sheets.

 

 

Fitted Valance Sheet

 

A Fitted Valance Sheet is basically a Fitted Sheet and Valance Sheet all in one. It covers the mattress like a fitted sheet and also has a skirt that hangs around the mattress. The advantage of these is that you only need to buy one sheet, and they're easier to change for washing, as you don't need to lift the mattress to remove them

 

 

 

 

Bed Sheet Size Chart

 

*All Sizes Quoted in Width x Length

Bed/Mattress Size  (Width)	Fitted Sheet Size	Flat Sheet Size
Single (3ft)	90 x 190cm 3ft x 6ft 3"	180 x 260cm 71 x 102"
Small Double (4ft)	120 x 190cm 4ft x 6ft 3"	210 x 260cm 84 x 100"
Double (4ft 6")	135 x 190cm 4ft 6" x 6ft 3"	230 x 260cm 91 x 102"
King (5ft)	150 x 200cm 5ft x 6ft 6"	265 x 275cm 104 x 108"
SuperKing (6ft)	180 x 200cm 6ft x 6ft 6"	310 x 275cm 122 x 108"
Emperor (6ft 6")	200 x 200cm 6ft 6 x 6ft 6"	320 x 290cm 126 x 114"

 

When choosing which Fitted Sheet to use, it's preferable to measure from the corner of the mattress. Measuring from the corner of the bed frame is not advised, as some bed frames have gaps between the frame and the mattress.

 

Finally, pay attention to the depth of you mattress. Mattresses (and fitted sheets) vary in depth usually from 25cm to 40cm. While small differences (e.g. a few cms) won't matter much, if you have an extra deep mattress (e.g. 40cm), then a standard depth fitted sheet (25cm) will sit a little above the bottom of the mattress. However, it won't affect how the sheet sits on the mattress, but is more of an aesthetic concern

 

You have a little more leeway when selecting Flat Sheet Size, e.g. if you have a very deep mattress, you may choose a Flat sheet 1 size up from your mattress size (e.g. choosing a King Flat Sheet for a Double Bed).

 

 

 

 

Choosing a Fabric

 

There are many different types of bed sheet fabrics. Which you choose largely depends on your personal preference for softness, ease of care, warmth and durability. 

 

Cotton Sheets

 

Benefits of Cotton Bed Sheets

 

• Breathability This is one of the main reasons many people choose Cotton Bedding, it's a natural, breathable fabric that won't have you sweating on a hot night

 

• Softness High quality cotton fabrics are naturally soft. Remember however to also pay attention to Thread Count, as the higher the thread count generally the softer the fabric also

 

• Hypoallergenic Cotton is generally considered naturally hypoallergenic, meaning it's unlikely to cause an allergic reaction

 

• Durability Cotton fibers are strong and less prone to wear and tear, ensuring the sheets maintain their integrity over time.

 

Percale Sheets

 

Firstly it's important to know that Percale is a type of weave, not a type of material. However, percale sheets are typically made from Cotton or Cotton Blend.

 

Percale is a type of weave characterized by a one-over-one-under pattern, resulting in a matte finish and a crisp feel. With that in mind you can buy Percale Cotton Sheets or Percale Polycotton Sheets

 

Benefits of Percale

 

• Crisp: Percale sheets have a crisp, matte-like texture, unlike Sateen sheets, which have a sheen. 

 

• Breathability: The tight weave promotes excellent airflow, improving breathability. Percale is popular in warmer climates or for 'Hot Sleepers'

 

• Durability: A strong , durable fabric that will withstand frequent washing. Hence it is quite popular with Hotels.

 

Flannelette Sheets

 

Flannelette Sheets are made from a soft and cozy fabric, typically more suitable for Colder Weather. They are brushed on both sides giving a characteristically soft "fuzzy" surface.

These raised fibers create air pockets, providing extra insulation. Many people like the feel of flannelette sheets. However, beware that because of the brushing process, they are more prone to piling.

 

Egyptian Cotton Sheets

 

Egyptian Cotton sheets are known for their luxurious quality & comfort .They are made from cotton fibers grown in Egypt, know for long staple fibres These fibers produce a fine, strong yarn that results in sheets that are soft, smooth, and durable.

 

Pay attention to the Thread Count of Egyptian Cotton also. The higher the Thread Count, generally the softer and higher quality (as there are more threads per square inch)

 

Benefits of Egyptian Cotton

 

Breathability As with all Cotton, Egyptian cotton sheets are highly breathable, allowing for excellent airflow and moisture absorption.

 

Durability This ensures they maintain their luxurious feel even after repeated washings.