You never think about them until they need replacing, but the fitted sheet is an important part of the bed. A good fitted sheet can make sliding into bed after a long day feel like the ultimate relief. Or better yet, like nothing at all. While you can find them in bedding sets, fitted sheets come separately, to suit your physical and aesthetic needs.
A Good Fit
Unlike flat sheets, fitted sheets have elastic at the corners to help them fold over and grip the mattress. As a result, fitted sheets are better at staying in place. Making your bed up in the morning is a lot easier with them too, because let's face it, hospital corners are a huge pain.
Some things to look for in a fitted sheet:
* '''Pocket Depth''': The pocket referred to here is the fold-over held together by elastic in the corner of the sheets. Any sheet you buy should be able to fit over the corners and sides of the mattress with no slack and minimal stretching; a thicker mattress requires a deeper pocket.
* '''Thread Count''': A rule of thumb for sheets and thread count: the higher the thread count, the more comfortable but expensive. It 's worth it to splurge though, as you'll likely be sleeping directly on the fitted sheet.
* '''Sheet Fabric''': Avoid materials you're allergic to, and look for breathable fabrics. In the winter, you can always add to a cotton sheet with a warmer comforter. Make sure the fitted sheet is machine washable, especially if you have to reuse the same set repeatedly.
