How to Make a Bed - 8 Requirements for Form & Function (2024)

Many people sleep better in a hotel than at home. The perfectly made bed, the cozy ambiance, the smell of clean sheets, and other small details make all the difference.

Some guests jump into the bed with joy as soon as they enter a hotel room.With a little prep, you replicate the hotel experience right in your bedroom.

Simple touches, like tucking in your covers neatly and fluffing the pillows, can turn your bed into a cloud of comfort.

But first, you need to learn how to make a bed the right way.

How do you make a bed step by step?

There are a couple different ways to make a bed. The two most popular techniques include:

1. The 5-step designer way
2. The simple way

1. What are the 5 steps to making a bed?

If you’re looking for a really luxe look, you may want to do the 5-step designer method to make the bed. This bed is decked to the 9s with layers, depth, and clean lines.

The steps for a designer bed include:

1. Pull the comforter or duvet cover to the head of the bed and tuck the sheets neatly underneath. Smooth out any wrinkles.
2. Use Euro pillows as the first pillow in the assembly. These pillows are typically 20×20″ (give or take a couple of inches). These can be neutral to match the bedding or contrasting color. As a general rule of thumb, twin beds can accommodate one Euro pillow, full or queen can accommodate two, and a king bed can accommodate three Euro pillows.
3. Add sham pillows. Shams usually match the same pattern as the comforter or duvet and are a smaller size compared to the Euro pillows. Similar to the Euro pillows, twin beds use one sham pillow, full or queen use two, and a king bed would ideally need three.
4. Add standard pillows. After the shams, you will add the standard pillows. These pillows are standard-sized like the shams, but they are encased in a standard pillowcase that usually matches the sheets.
5. Add accent pillows. For an accent, you can do two small accept pillows (think 14×14″ or similar) or you could opt for a single lumber pillow (12×20″ish).

For a finishing touch, use a throw, quilt, etc at the foot of the bed. Fold it so that it drapes across the side of the mattress, but is not wider than 18″ or so. This is meant to be an accent of color or an opportunity to add some texture to your bed.

For a minimalist style, look for linen sets with neutral colors. For something farmhouse, consider a thin stripe with added textural pillows or woven prints. Bold styles can really benefit from a bright or large-scale pattern on the Euro pillows and accent pillows or as an accent at the foot of the bed.

2. How can I make a simple bed at home?

If the 5 step method is 4 steps too many, you may want to opt for a simpler strategy. At its core, a simple bed requires just a few parts.

You’ll need the following:

• Fitted sheet
• Flat sheet
• Comforter or duvet
• Standard pillow

When making a simple bed, simply layer the parts listed above onto your bed and then lay the standard pillow flat.

Unlike the designer method, this simple method does not involve any stacking or an abundance of pillows.

How do I layer my bed?

When we start to think about layering the bed, we start with elements at the bottom and work our way up, since this is also the way you will add pieces each time you’re ready to make the bed.

From bottom to top, the elements of a good bed include:

1. Bed skirt
2. Mattress pad
3. Mattress protector (or encasement)
4. Fitted sheet
5. Flat sheet
6. Duvet or comforter
7. Blanket
8. Pillows

What’s the importance of each piece?

The bed skirt is purely decorative and helps to hide the underside of Some people use a bed skirt, or dust ruffle, and mattress pads. The former is purely decorative, so you can skip it.

Mattress pads, on the other hand, add a little extra pressure relief and comfort to your mattress. These linens are not as thick as a traditional mattress topper. Depending on thickness and materials, they also may provide a certain level of soil protection for your mattress.

Mattress protectors serve to fully protect the mattress. They do not have materials that change the comfort dynamic of your mattress. Instead, they serve as a protective layer, with many being waterproof. This helps to protect your mattress from sweat, stains, and bodily fluids.

As a general rule, it’s always a good idea to use a mattress protector. But you don’t have to use a mattress pad.

The same goes for mattress toppers, which have the role to maximize pressure relief and comfort during sleep. Some models also feature special fabrics that keep you dry and cool at night.

Duvets covers and/or comforters provide that plush comfort layer above the sheets. For less bulk, you can also opt for a quilt or bedspread instead.

Lastly, a bed runner or a folded throw blanket as a finishing touch. These accessories come in handy for those who have pets.

All in all, bed-making can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. The more layers you add to your bed, the longer it will take you to keep everything clean and organized.

Making Your Bed the Right Way

Once you have decided how to dress your bed, get all the linens together and place them on a clean surface.

If your bed has the metal frame exposed, use a bed skirt to conceal it. Remove the mattress and then lay the dust ruffle over the box spring. When you’re done, place the mattress on top of it.

In case you decide to skip the bed skirt, follow these steps to make your bed properly:

Do you need a mattress protector?

Adding a mattress protector is a great way to protect your mattress and help it last longer.

1. OPTIONAL – Add a mattress topper. Make sure it’s perfectly aligned with the corners of your mattress. Use non-slip pads to keep the mattress topper in place (if necessary).
2. OPTIONAL – Use a mattress pad to create a comfortable base. Place it on the top of your mattress. Typically, if you want to use a topper or mattress pad, you would choose one, but not both. Toppers are generally thicker and provide extra comfort, while mattress pads are thinner and more subtle.
3. OPTIONAL, BUT RECOMMENDED – Pull a mattress protector over your mattress (and mattress pad) to protect it from spills, dust, and bacteria. Ideally, choose a waterproof model.

As shown above, these steps are not mandatory. You can simply place the sheets over your mattress to keep things simple.

Our advice is to use a waterproof mattress protector. This item can increase the lifespan of your mattress by preventing spills and bodily fluids from entering the fabric.

Choose one with hypoallergenic and antimicrobial properties to keep away bacteria, dust mites, and allergens.

How to make a bed with sheets?

Next, place the sheets on top of your mattress. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Lay a fitted sheet over the mattress.
2. Start with the long end, pulling each corner of the sheet over the mattress corners.
3. Tuck the sheet in while lifting the mattress slightly.
4. Smooth out any creases and wrinkles. Make sure all edges are firmly tucked under the body of the mattress.
5. Place a top sheet over it for an extra layer of protection. Repeat the above steps.

Note that hospital corners are not your only option. You can always leave the top sheet untucked to save time. The downside is that your sheets may come apart during the night, especially if you move a lot.

What kind of comforter do I need?

Hotels make use of layers to provide their guests with a luxurious feel during sleep. At the very least, you’ll need a duvet or comforter to give your bed that high-end hotel look.

1. Decide whether you want to use a comforter, a duvet, or both. If you choose the latter option, place the comforter inside the duvet cover.
2. Fold the duvet into thirds and place it at the bottom of your bed.
3. For a laid-back look, spread out the duvet instead of folding it.
4. Put a folded throw blanket or bed runner over the lower edge of your bed.

Choose a duvet that matches the overall style and decor of your bedroom. Pick one with a bold pattern for a splash of color or one in neutral tones for a calm ambiance. Consider using a cotton coverlet if you tend to heat up at night.

How to Pick Pillows for A Bed

Last, fluff your pillows and place them on the upper edge of the bed. For a touch of style, add some European shams or decorative pillows to the mix.

Pillows can be used in endless combinations. Use these ideas for inspiration:

• Dress up your bed with two European pillows and two sleeping pillows.
• Lay two standard pillows on your bed. Place an accent pillow in front of them.
• Use two standard pillows, two shams, and a pair of decorative pillows in this order.
• Place two European shams behind two standard pillows for increased comfort when reading or watching TV.

How to Make A Bed Feel Fancy

When it comes to bed-making, it’s the small details that count. Simple things, like dressing your bed in a knit blanket or throwing down a fluffy rug, can add that special something to your bedroom and make it feel like a boutique hotel.

Here’s an interesting idea from Architectural Digest: lay several throws over your bed to make it snuggly. Use a knit duvet and knit throws to create a cozy atmosphere.

Consider switching to a weighted blanket for better sleep. Pair it with linens and pillows made from natural fabrics, such as cotton or bamboo. Add a DIY canopy to the mix to turn your bed into a relaxing retreat.

How to Make a Bed in Five Minutes or Less

While it’s possible to make your bed look like it belongs in a five-star hotel, you may not be able to do that every morning. We all have those days when every minute counts, but this isn’t an excuse to leave your bed messy.

If you’re in a rush, take these steps to make your bed in five minutes or less:

1. Place a fitted sheet over your mattress. Pull the elastic band tightly to keep the sheet in place.
2. Next, lay the top sheet on the center of your bed and then pull it down your mattress. Tuck in the corners of the sheet or leave them hanging out.
3. Use the burrito method to put on the duvet cover.
4. Add the pillows and finishing touches.

Master the Art of Bed-Making

The average person spends more than 30 years in bed over the course of a lifetime. Given this aspect, it makes sense to pay more attention to your sleep environment.

For starters, focus on learning how to make a bed properly. Later, experiment with different bed styling options and pillow arrangements. Keep your room tidy and the sheets clean, invest in a quality mattress, and get the best bedding you can afford.

Note that people who make their bed daily are 19% more likely to enjoy a good night’s sleep. This morning ritual sets the tone for the day, giving you a sense of accomplishment. It’s also a great way to cut the clutter, which in turn may lead to improved mental focus and reduced stress.

Follow the above steps every morning to start your day on a positive note. Once you’ve done it a few times, it becomes second nature.

FAQ

Citations

• Campbell, L. (2017, October 19). We’ve broken down your entire life into years spent doing tasks. HuffPost. Retrieved December 18, 2021, from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/weve-broken-down-your-entire-life-into-years-spent-doing-tasks_n_61087617e4b0999d2084fec5
• A guide to a good night’s sleep – aurora university. (n.d.). Retrieved December 18, 2021, from https://aurora.edu/documents/wellness/Sleep%20Booklet%202015finalrev.2.pdf
• Person. (2018, March 19). This clever duvet cover trick is going to change your life. Country Living. Retrieved December 18, 2021, from https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/a48/duvet-cover-hack/
• Real Simple Editors Updated March 05, 2019. (n.d.). How to put on a Duvet cover. Real Simple. Retrieved December 18, 2021, from https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/decorating/decorating-bedroom/how-to-put-on-a-duvet-cover
• Study shows weighted blankets can decrease insomnia severity – AASM. American Academy of Sleep Medicine – Association for Sleep Clinicians and Researchers. (2020, November 9). Retrieved December 18, 2021, from https://aasm.org/study-shows-weighted-blankets-can-decrease-insomnia-severity/
• TodayShow. (2017, July 20). The 1 simple trick to create and keep ‘hospital corners’. TODAY.com. Retrieved December 18, 2021, from https://www.today.com/home/how-create-hospital-corners-when-you-make-bed-t113995
• Ulloa, A. J. and G. (2017, January 18). 20 ways to make your bedroom cozier. Architectural Digest. Retrieved December 18, 2021, from https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/thomas-hamel-how-to-create-a-cozy-hygge-friendly-bedroom-for-winter
• Vanbuskirk, S. (2021, January 29). The mental health benefits of making your bed. Verywell Mind. Retrieved December 18, 2021, from https://www.verywellmind.com/mental-health-benefits-of-making-your-bed-5093540