When climbing into hotel beds at night, guests expect to find a sheet covering their mattress. Exactly which type of sheet is up for debate. Some hotels choose the standard fitted sheet, while others prefer flat sheets with tucked corners. 

Below, we’ll explore the differences between the two types of sheets, plus how to decide which type makes sense for your hotel or hotel clients. 

What is a Fitted Sheet? 

A fitted sheet (often called a bottom sheet) features four elastic corners that hug the mattress. Fitted sheets add a layer of protection between the sleeper and the mattress, which is a must in hotels. After all, mattresses aren’t washed between stays, but sheets are. 

What is a Flat Sheet? 

A flat sheet, or top sheet, is a sheet that sits flat on a bed. It provides a layer of protection between the sleeper and the blanket, duvet, or comforter. And it offers a light, cooling layer of coverage to guests who sleep hot but still want something on top as they snooze. 

Are Fitted Sheets Necessary for Hotels? 

A bottom sheet is necessary to maintain proper hygiene in hotels. But not all hotels use a fitted sheet for that purpose. In fact, Southern Living suggests that most hotels don’t use fitted sheets at all. Instead, they use flat sheets for the bottom layer, tucking in with hospital corners. 

As you decide what to use for a bottom layer on your hotel’s beds, consider the following: 

• Fitted sheets are hard to press and fold neatly, which can make linen storage and organization tricky. 
• The elastic in fitted sheets may wear out before the sheet itself does, thus rendering the sheets useless.
• Making beds with flat sheets as the bottom layer may take a worse toll on housekeepers’ backs and lower-body than using a fitted sheet. It can also be more time-consuming. 
• Hotels need flat sheets anyways. Only stocking one type of sheet in the necessary sizes can streamline inventory and ordering. 

As you can see, each type has its pros and cons. It’s really a matter of deciding what makes the most sense for your hotel. 

Regardless of which type of sheet you choose for a bottom layer, pay close attention to dimensions when ordering. Fitted sheets come in different depths. Make sure you’re purchasing sheets deep enough to fit your hotels’ mattresses plus any toppers or allergy-resistant mattress encasements.

Flat sheets come in standard sizes, but some come in extra-wide sizes, such as our Silkway Sheets. That extra width can make tucking hospital corners easier for your staff. 

Are Flat Sheets Necessary for Hotels?

Although they’ve been a standard in bedding for hundreds of years, top sheets are less popular with younger Americans. Many would rather sleep between a bottom sheet and their bedspread or a soft blanket. 

However, this isn’t a trend hotels should get behind. Top sheets help maintain good hygiene by separating the sleeper from the duvet or comforter, trapping sweat, skin oils, dust mites, and hair. In hotels, where sheets are washed and changed between stays, but comforters aren’t, the flat top sheet is a must, regardless of which sheet type you choose for the bottom sheet. 

Your Source for Quality Hotel Bed Linens

Venus proudly produces some of the most comfortable and durable bed sheets on the market. Our line of bed linens includes coordinating flat sheets, fitted sheets, and pillowcases in many sizes. Reach out to our textile experts today by calling 800.421.6599 or emailing sales@venusgroup.com.