Making your bed in the morning has gathered more weight these days, as studies show how this simple task can impact the rest of your day. How? It creates a sense of accomplishment and sets a positive tone for the day. It helps to maintain a tidy living space, which can reduce stress and enhance productivity. And, of course, a well-made bed can improve the overall appearance of your room and make it more inviting, promoting better sleep habits. So, take the time each morning (and don’t forget to change the sheets once a week).
Here’s how to make the perfect bed:
Dust Ruffle (optional)
Start with a dust ruffle for a put-together look. Also called a bed skirt, this feature hides the box spring and anything you store under the bed. Some dust ruffles resemble a sheet that covers the box spring and hangs over the sides. Others are a wrap-around style with elastic to hold them to the box spring.
Mattress Topper
If you have an older mattress or you want to create the feel of a pillow top without the cost, place a foam or gel topper on the bed.
Mattress Cover
It’s recommended to protect your mattress from unexpected spills and accidents with a waterproof pad. Wash this each week with the rest of your bedding.
Fitted Sheet
Put a fitted sheet over the mattress, topper, and cover to protect them. The elastic edges ensure the fitted sheet stays in place despite all your tossing and turning.
Flat Sheet
Add a flat sheet with the “good” side facing down, since this is the side that will make contact with your body. For a clean look, make hospital corners at the foot of the bed. Simply tuck the hanging fabric under the mattress. Then, grab the sheet hanging over the side and lift it on top of the bed. Tuck the hanging corner that remains neatly under the mattress. Lastly, tuck in the final portion of the sheet to create a tidy look. Repeat on the other corner.
Comforter, Duvet, or Quilt
Add a fluffy top layer for warmth and coziness. If you have a thin, lightweight quilt, you can make hospital corners with this as well. It’s your decision whether to leave the comforter and the flat sheet pulled up or to fold them down as you might find in a hotel room.
Pillows
Finish off the perfect bed by piling on assorted pillows. Start with oversized pillows leaning against the headboard. Then, add pillows in decorative sham cases. Style your sleeping pillows and a few decorative throw pillows in front.
Photo by Isaac Martin on Unsplash
