Laundering your bed sheets is a real chore, regardless of the season. While experts recommend washing your bedding weekly, that turnaround often increases during the holidays, a period when you're more likely to have overnight guests dropping in and out.
However, if you don't own a dyer, getting your sheets clean and dry is a mammoth task during the cold winter months, when drying sheets outdoors just isn't an option. While I can't take that task off your hands entirely (I wish), I do have a bedding hack up my sleeve that makes the process a whole lot easier.
Introducing the humble flat sheet can reduce the need to remove, wash and dry your duvet cover, as well as making your bed set-up a little bit more luxurious. In even better news, all of the best bed sheets we've tested and reviewed this year come with a top sheet.
Here's three reasons why a top sheet can be an unlikely winter bedding essential...
What is a top sheet?
First things things, a top sheet and flat sheet is the same thing. It's essentially a bedding layer that forms as a barrier between you and your duvet cover. And if you sleep with a comforter as opposed to a duvet, the chances are that you're already dressing your bed with a top sheet.
While not every household uses one, a top sheet is nearly always found on luxury hotel beds. The reason is two-fold: a fresh, crisp and neatly folded top sheet looks elegant. Plus, layering up with a top sheet — especially a flannelette or brushed cotton — can feel cosy during the cooler winter months.
However, some people choose to avoid it altogether, viewing it as an added obstacle which can get caught around the legs, especially for those prone to toss and turn during the night.
Why a top sheet is a winter bedding essential
1. It creates a barrier between you and your duvet cover
No matter the season, your body continues to shed dead skin cells and release natural oils every single day. Studies show that around 41% of adults struggle with nightsweats. The result? A delightful mix of dirt and grime being absorbed by your bedding.
The bottom line is that washing your bedding is a non-negotiable. However, regularly cleaning your duvet (or even just the cover that holds it) can be impractical for those of us who don't have the luxury of having tumble dryer at home.
Adding a top sheet creates an effective barrier between you and your duvet. This means that it will absorb all the dead skin cells, body oils and sweat instead — reducing the frequency at which you need to clean your duvet or its cover.
Of course, you'll still need to wash your top sheet weekly (and pillow cases and bottom sheet, for that matter), but a single piece of fabric is much easier to get dry than a duvet cover.
2. It dries quicker due to its lightweight build
A duvet is crafted from a cozy filling (ranging from natural down to synthetic polyester fibers) and featuring varying levels of insulation (referred to as togs) suitable for different sleeping styles and climates. It's then usually dressed in a cover of your choice.
While this double-layered construction can translate to comfy sleep, cleaning it is easier said than done, especially during winter. This also applies to the dual-sided duvet covers, which are heavier than your traditional bed sheets.
Ensuring that your duvet cover is thoroughly dry before dressing your bed is really important, as still-damp laundry can lead to mold and mildew growth — not something you ever want coming into contact with your or your mattress.
A top sheet, on the other hand, is lightweight and easier to wash and dry. Depending on the nature of the fabric, you can simply dry them outside (if and when the weather allows) or indoors with the heating on.
However, a more efficient way to dry bed sheets in the winter without a dryer is to invest in a de-humidifier, which can help quicken the drying process, and keep moisture levels inside your home regulated.
3. It adds an extra layer of warmth
Aside from the benefits of easy cleaning, a top sheet is also a low-effort method of adding in extra warmth when the temperature drops.
According to experts, the ideal temperature for sleeping is between 66 to 70 F (18 to 21° C). However, achieving this in winter is hard, especially when heating costs have sky-rocketed.
The good news is that your bedding can help you reduce heating costs and still get cozy sleep. The key is to add in multiple layers to achieve the desired feel and comfort suitable for your sleep.
A top sheet is the perfect addition since it can be both breathable and lightweight — which results in extra cosiness without overheating.
Are there any exceptions to this hack?
A top sheet is definitely a cost-effective hack to drying bedding easier in winter, but there are certain sleepers who should opt for the traditional method of washing their duvets instead.
If you're someone who shares a bed with your pet or are prone to allergies, experts recommend washing all of your bedding once every one or two weeks or more if necessary. This is to avoid accumulation of dust, which can otherwise potentially exacerbate existing conditions and even lead to respiratory issues.
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