Fitted Sheets vs Flat Sheets: Which Is Best for Your Bed?

When it comes to bedding, many people wonder: What’s the difference between a fitted sheet and a flat sheet? It’s less about which one is “better” and more about how each is designed and when to use it.

Flat sheets (sometimes called top sheets) have been around for generations and were once the standard way to cover a mattress. Fitted sheets — also called bottom sheets — came later, with elasticated corners to hold them snugly in place. Today, most households use both, but there’s often confusion about when each is needed.

What Is the Difference Between a Fitted Sheet and a Flat Sheet?

A fitted sheet (or bottom sheet) is tailored with stitched corners and an elastic hem, designed to hug your mattress tightly so it won’t move during the night.

A flat sheet (or top sheet) is a simple rectangular piece of fabric that lies loosely over the bed. It can be tucked under the mattress or layered between you and your duvet.

Advantages of a Fitted Sheet

Always stays in place

Elasticated corners stop your sheet from slipping or bunching, even if kids jump on the bed or you move a lot at night.

Simple, no-fuss corners

With stitched corners and elastic edges, fitted sheets give your bed a tidy, neat look without constant re-tucking.

Advantages of a Flat Sheet

Versatile and lightweight

Flat sheets can be tucked under a mattress or layered between a duvet and blanket — giving you flexibility in how you make your bed.

Extra comfort layer

Many people use a flat sheet as a lightweight cover in summer, or as a soft layer under a doona in cooler months.

Easy to fold and store

Because they’re a simple rectangle, flat sheets are easier to fold and store in compact spaces.

Did You Know? Common Myths About Flat Sheets

Myth 1 — You need a flat sheet for unusual mattress sizes

That’s true with traditional woven sheets, because they don’t stretch. Many people tuck and fold a flat sheet to fit caravan beds, long singles, or other non-standard mattresses.

Better solution: Jersey fitted sheets stretch to adapt to variations in width, length, and height — making them easier to use on unusual sizes without the extra folding.

Myth 2 — Flat sheets work better on adjustable beds

Woven sheets often bunch up or pop off when the bed is adjusted, so some people switch to flat sheets instead.

Better solution: Stretchy fitted sheets move with the mattress and stay securely in place — no slipping, no bunching, no compromise.

Myth 3. Mattress protectors and fitted sheets are the same thing

At first glance, they may look similar, so many people think they serve the same purpose.

Better solution: A mattress protector includes a waterproof layer that guards against spills, stains, and allergens, while the fitted sheet goes on top to provide comfort and a smooth finish.

Fitted vs Flat Sheets: Which Should You Choose?

For most mattresses, fitted sheets (bottom sheets) are the smarter choice: they stay put, look neat, and move with your bed.

That said, flat sheets still have their place. They’re perfect as a lightweight summer cover, or as an extra layer between you and your doona for comfort and hygiene.

In fact, the two go hand in hand. That’s why many people prefer a sheet set — giving you a fitted sheet that adapts to your mattress and a flat sheet for versatile layering.

Final Thoughts

Flat sheets and fitted sheets aren’t an either/or decision — they complement each other. A fitted sheet keeps your bed neat and secure, while a flat sheet offers versatility as a cover or extra layer.

By understanding the difference, you can make a better choice for your bedroom setup.

👉 Explore our fitted sheets, flat sheets, and sheet sets to find your perfect fit.