Do You Really Need a Top Sheet? A Bedding Expert Weighs In

Over the past few years in the United States, super-tailored beds have made way for the effortlessly rumpled, relaxed look of a duvet. While the use of a top sheet is not exclusive to more traditional, buttoned-up styles, it has long been associated with those categories. Some people love the refined finish they can bring to a bed, while others find top sheets too fussy. Comfort and hygiene also play a role: in general, top sheets are easier to clean regularly, but they also provide an extra layer that some sleepers may feel is “too much.”

According to Amy Hoban, chief creative officer of Parachute, a top sheet (also known as a “flat sheet”) is very much a “love it or hate it” element of bedding. While there are clear pros and cons, she emphasizes that the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. 

Below, the case for (and against) top sheets.

The Benefits of Using a Top Sheet

If you do opt for a top sheet, Hoban advises paying close attention to the materials, making sure that comfort comes first. “Fiber, weave, and breathability make all the difference, and each fabric has its own benefits depending on your sleep style,” she says.

If you tend to run warm at night, Hoban says to consider cotton percale made from 100 percent long-staple Egyptian cotton, which tends to be softer, more breathable, and resilient over time. One-hundred percent European linen is another one of her favorites—it’s light, airy, durable, and naturally insulating, so you’ll stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. One thing to note about linen: since the fibers are naturally thicker than cotton, the thread count will be lower. “That’s completely normal and not a reflection of quality,” says Hoban. “Thread count is often treated like the marker of luxury, but a higher number doesn’t automatically mean better.”

Flexibility for Fluctuating Temperatures 

Top sheets provide flexibility when temperatures rise, allowing you to forgo heavy blankets. “A top sheet gives you an airy layer in warmer months when you don’t want to sleep under a duvet,” says Hoban. Lightweight sheeting made from natural fibers of cotton or linen can help regulate your body temperature and feel cooler to the touch than wool or down-filled comforters. 

It Adds a Protective Barrier

A top sheet also provides an extra layer of protection between you and your other sleeping layers, whether that’s a duvet, blanket, or quilt. Because top sheets are lightweight and designed for frequent washing, they’re easy to toss in the machine regularly. This means you’ll be more likely to keep the layer that’s immediately next to your skin—where oils, dead skin cells, and other allergens tend to congregate—clean and fresh.

Different Styling Options

Layering with a top sheet can give you more options when styling your bedding. A top sheet with a piped border or contrasting trim creates a polished, tailored look. Or, a bright top sheet folded over can add a pop of contrasting color to your overall palette. “Pull it all the way up and keep it hidden, or do the classic 'turned-back' look where the sheet folds over itself at the top and sits over the duvet,” says Hoban.

The Drawbacks of Using a Top Sheet

If you decide to skip the top sheet, consider using a covered duvet instead. “A duvet is a great solution because the cover is easily removable to wash,” says Hoban. “It also gives you more flexibility long-term, since you can swap the cover to refresh your space and even switch out the insert depending on the season and your preferred fill.

She recommends getting one with corner ties or fasteners to help keep the insert in place. “A cloud-like duvet layered over crisp, smooth sheets can add subtle softness and dimension,” she says. Finish the look with an extra layer of a blanket or quilt, which adds warmth and structure.

The Feeling of “Too Much”

“Not everyone loves the extra fabric,” says Hoban. “Some people find a top sheet unnecessary, as it feels like it just adds one more layer to manage.” A top sheet may feel too restrictive if you don’t love the feeling of being “tucked in” or prefer to have your feet free as you snooze. “If you’re a 'less is more' sleeper, or you tend to move around a lot, you might be happier skipping it.”

It May Get Twisted or Tangled

“Depending on how you sleep, the sheet can shift around and feel annoying or bunchy overnight”, says Hoban. Active sleepers, in particular, may not like a loose sheet getting tangled up with their limbs. A heavier-weight linen can also add too much warmth when paired with other blankets—a great addition if you’re in a chilly climate, but less appealing in warmer locales. 

It Can Feel Too Fussy

This is where personal preference and lifestyle come in. Are you someone who loves a neatly-made, layered bed? Or do you gravitate towards a more relaxed, breezy look? For some, a top sheet may be a non-negotiable; for others, it might feel like an expendable extra step. “If you like the option of a lighter layer and a bit more structure when styling your bed, a top sheet is a great addition,” Hoban says. If you prefer the look and ease of a single layer, skipping the top sheet can streamline your routine—just fluff your duvet, smooth it out, and you’ve got a stylishly casual finish.