Bamboo sheets, flat or fitted
Short answer: A flat sheet lies loosely over the mattress and is tucked in, while a fitted sheet with elastic stays in place at the corners. Choose by the height of your mattress and by how much you want to straighten out in the morning. Here are the differences, with advice on washing and fit for bamboo.
Two types of sheet, two ways to make the bed
A flat sheet is a piece of fabric that you lay over the mattress and tuck in at the sides. A fitted sheet has elastic sewn into the corners, so it stays put without tucking. Both protect the mattress, but they behave differently during the night.
What speaks for the flat sheet
The flat sheet is easy to wash, dry and iron, because it is a simple piece of fabric with no elastic. You can also use it on several mattress sizes if you tuck it in well. On the other hand, it can slip out during the night if you move a lot, and then it has to be straightened again.
What speaks for the fitted sheet
The fitted sheet sits tight and seldom moves, so the bed looks neat with a few movements. It does need to match the height of the mattress, or the corners can spring off. Measure the mattress and check how deep the pocket is before you order, especially if you have a mattress topper.
Find your set in the bedding category
Once you know which type you want, you can look at bamboo bedding and compare sizes and styles. Use the same measurements you took for the mattress, so you get the sheet in the right size. If you are unsure between two sizes, choose the one with a little extra fabric rather than one that is too tight.
Bamboo in clothing and in sheets
Bamboo in clothing and bedding is viscose from bamboo, and many find it soft and smooth against the skin. It can also crease more than cotton, especially if it stays damp, and the elastic in the corners wears over time. Follow the label and hang the sheet up straight after washing, and you get the best out of the fabric.
Washing without problems
Wash sheets on their own or with other bedding, and keep them apart from towels, which shed lint. You can look at bamboo towels if you want a set for the bathroom, but do not wash them with the sheet. Use a low temperature and a gentle programme unless the label says otherwise.
Drying and storing
Air drying is gentle on both fabric and elastic, and the sheet looks better if you shake it out before hanging it up. If you use a tumble dryer, choose a low temperature and take the sheet out once it is dry. Fold it and put it in a clean, dry cupboard so it does not smell musty or get creases.
Nightwear and sheets that go together
You lie directly on the sheet, so your nightwear and sheet should not bother each other. Many choose a loose, soft set of nightwear, for example a women's Bamboo Pajama Shirt, if they prefer buttons. Keep both clean and change the sheet when it feels clammy or has a smell.
Frequently asked questions
Which sheet is best for a thick mattress?
A fitted sheet with a deep pocket usually suits a thick mattress best, because it stays in place. Compare the pocket depth with the mattress height, so the corners do not spring off.
Can I use a flat sheet on top of a fitted sheet?
Yes, you can use a flat sheet as an extra layer over or under, if you like. Tuck it in well, so it does not bunch up during the night.
How often should I change the sheet?
Many change it once a week or every second week. If you sweat a lot, have allergies or sleep with pets in the bed, changing more often can help.
