A well-made bed makes the whole bedroom look tidier, and it’s much nicer to climb into at night. It only takes a few minutes once you know the steps. Here’s how to make a bed from the mattress up, including the classic hospital corner and an easy way to wrestle on a duvet cover.
What you’ll need
- A mattress protector or pad
- A fitted sheet
- A flat (top) sheet
- A blanket, quilt or coverlet (optional, for warmth)
- A comforter, or a duvet insert and duvet cover
- Pillows and pillowcases, plus shams or decorative pillows if you like them
- A throw for the foot of the bed (optional)
Make sure everything matches your mattress size and depth. If you’re not sure, check our guide to choosing bedding sizes.
Step by step: how to make a bed
1. Start with the mattress protector
Lay the protector flat and pull the elastic corners over the mattress. It keeps spills and sweat off the mattress and is easy to wash.
2. Put on the fitted sheet
Find the corner seams. Start at one top corner, then do the diagonally opposite corner, then the remaining two. This stops the sheet from springing off as you go. Smooth out wrinkles from the center outward.
3. Add the flat sheet
Lay the flat sheet with the printed or finished side facing down, so it shows when you fold the top edge back. Line the top edge up with the head of the mattress, leaving the extra length at the foot. Tuck the foot of the sheet under the mattress.
4. Make hospital corners
Hospital corners give a crisp, tight finish at the foot of the bed:
- Tuck the bottom edge of the sheet under the foot of the mattress.
- At one side, pick up the edge of the sheet about 12 to 16 inches from the foot and lift it so it forms a diagonal fold, like a triangle, on top of the mattress.
- Tuck the fabric hanging below that fold under the mattress.
- Drop the triangle back down and tuck it neatly under the side.
- Repeat on the other side.
5. Add a blanket or quilt
For colder nights, add a blanket or quilt on top of the flat sheet, lined up a few inches below the head of the bed. Tuck it in along with the sheet or leave it loose. Our guide to how to layer bedding has more ideas for building warmth.
6. Add the comforter or duvet
Spread the comforter or duvet evenly so it hangs the same amount on both sides. Then fold the top of the flat sheet down over the edge of the comforter for that tidy, hotel-style band.
7. Finish with pillows
Put pillowcases on your sleeping pillows and stand or lay them against the headboard. Add shams or euro pillows behind them and one or two decorative pillows in front. Finish with a throw folded across the foot of the bed.
How to put on a duvet cover the easy way
Turn the duvet cover inside out and lay it flat on the bed with the opening at the foot. Lay the duvet insert on top, lining up the corners. Starting at the head of the bed, roll the cover and insert together toward the foot like a burrito. Then reach into the opening, turn the cover right side out around the roll and unroll it back toward the head. Fasten the buttons or zipper and give it a good shake. A set that includes a matching quilt cover, fitted sheet and pillowcases, such as this sheet and quilt cover kit, takes the guesswork out of coordinating.
Hotel-style finishing touches
- Smooth as you go. Run your hands across each layer before adding the next.
- Stick to a calm palette. White or neutral sheets with one accent color always look fresh.
- Fold, don’t bunch. A neatly folded throw, like a chunky chenille blanket, looks intentional.
- Plump the pillows. A quick shake restores loft and makes the bed look inviting.
- Add something personal. A personalized heirloom blanket at the foot of the bed is a lovely touch in a main bedroom or guest room.
Getting a guest bed ready for the holidays
If family is coming to stay over Thanksgiving or Christmas, make up the guest bed a day or two early. Wash the sheets so they smell fresh, add an extra blanket at the foot of the bed for guests who feel the cold and leave a spare pillow in the closet. For festive ideas, see our Christmas bedding guide.
FAQ
Which side of the flat sheet goes up?
The printed or finished side faces down, toward the mattress. When you fold the top edge back over the comforter, that side shows.
Do I need a flat sheet?
No. Many people skip it and use a duvet cover, which can be washed as easily as a sheet. It’s a matter of preference.
How often should I change my sheets?
Most people change and wash their sheets every week or two.
Should I make my bed every morning?
It’s up to you. Many people find a made bed makes the room feel calmer, and it only takes a couple of minutes.
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