Discover all the technical terms concerning bed linens.
Fitted sheet
A fitted sheet has four corners, normally fitted with elastic, tucked under the four corners of the mattress holding the sheet firmly in place and provides a smooth surface for lying on. The elasticated edges make it harder to fold and does not lie flat unless pulled over a mattress.
Flat sheets
As their names suggest flat sheets are flat, they fold easily and neatly. Flat sheets are also used to protect the mattress and make smooth surface for lying. The flat sheet has no elastic band, the exact size of a flat sheet when purchasing is less important as it is used separately.
Duvet cover
A duvet cover is a decorative and protective sheet covering for a duvet and keeps it clean. Most duvet covers have a button or tie closure at one end.
Pillow sham
A pillow sham is a decorative pillow case, often designed with trims, ruffles, flanges, or cording. They can be slept on like normal pillowcases, pillow shams are usually used as support when sitting in bed and as decoration during the day. Sham pillows can be placed behind normal pillows when sleeping or just removed from the bed completely.
Pillow case
A pillowcase is a cover for a traditional pillow that you lay your head on when sleeping and which can be easily removed and washed. They come in difference sizes depending on the pillow you purchase.