How To Properly Make A Bed

An exhaustive look at how to properly make a bed — the facts, the myths, the rabbit holes, and the things nobody talks about.

Most people think making a bed is as simple as pulling up the sheets and smoothing out the comforter. But oh, how wrong they are. The art of properly making a bed is a complex, nuanced practice that has been honed and perfected over centuries. From the perfect hospital corners to the fluffiest duvet, the choices and techniques involved are endless.

The Forgotten History of Bedmaking

Contrary to popular belief, the modern bed didn't just spontaneously appear one day. Bed construction and design has evolved dramatically over the centuries, and bed-making rituals have been an integral part of many cultures for millennia. Ancient Egyptians, for example, were known to have elaborate bedmaking routines involving the use of rare herbs and oils to "bless" the bed. In medieval Europe, a system of "bed curtains" was used not only for privacy, but also to trap heat and maintain the perfect sleeping temperature.

The Perfectly Tucked Hospital Corner

No discussion of proper bed-making would be complete without the iconic "hospital corner." This precise folding technique, developed by nurses to ensure patient beds were neatly made, has become the gold standard for achieving a crisp, tailored look. To master the hospital corner, start by tucking the bottom sheet tightly under the mattress at the foot of the bed. Then, take the excess fabric and create a 45-degree fold at the corner, smoothing it down to create a sharp, angular tuck. It's a seemingly simple maneuver, but one that requires practice to perfect.

"The hospital corner is the foundation of all proper bed-making. It's not just about aesthetics - it's about creating an environment conducive to rest and relaxation." - Emily Simmons, author of "Bed Linens & the Art of Living"

The Duvet Dilemma

One of the most contentious debates in the world of bedmaking is the "to-duvet-or-not-to-duvet" quandary. Duvets, with their fluffy insulation and easy-to-change covers, have become increasingly popular in recent years. But traditionalists argue that a well-made bed requires the crisp, linear lines of a meticulously tucked top sheet. The debate rages on, with both sides passionately defending their preferred method.

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Fitted Sheets: Friend or Foe?

Of all the components of a properly made bed, the fitted sheet is perhaps the most polarizing. While undoubtedly convenient, fitted sheets have been known to cause no end of frustration for the meticulous bed-maker. Their elastic edges can be tricky to tuck in just so, and they have a tendency to come untucked during the night. Purists argue that the perfect bed requires the smooth, uninterrupted lines of a flat sheet - even if it means wrestling with the trickier tucking process each morning.

The Rise of the Bed Skirt

In the late 19th century, the bed skirt emerged as a way to conceal the underside of the bed frame and add a touch of elegance to the bedroom. Today, bed skirts remain a popular choice for those seeking a polished, coordinated look. But their use is not without controversy. Some argue that bed skirts are outdated, unnecessary, and even a breeding ground for dust and allergens. Others swear by the transformative power of a well-placed bed skirt.

The Final Touch: Pillows and Shams

No properly made bed is complete without the perfect pillow presentation. Fluffed and positioned just so, the pillows and their accompanying shams are the crowning glory of a meticulously crafted sleep sanctuary. But even here, there are rules to be followed. Pillows should be plump yet firm, with crisp, wrinkle-free shams that complement the overall color scheme. And don't even think about skimping on the number of pillows - the true bed-making aficionado knows that more is always more when it comes to these essential accoutrements.

In the end, the art of properly making a bed is a delicate dance of tradition, technique, and personal preference. Whether you're a duvet devotee, a top-sheet traditionalist, or a minimalist seeking the perfect hospital corner, the journey to bedmaking bliss is a never-ending quest. So fluff your pillows, tuck your sheets, and embrace the complexity of creating the perfect sleeping surface. Sweet dreams await.