How to Make a Bed in Six Easy Steps

There’s more to learning how to make a bed than simply pulling on some sheets and a blanket.

A well-made bed makes a big style statement, whether you like a high-end hotel look or something more cozy and casual. Making your bed involves choosing comfortable bed linens that appeal to your sense of style, and layering them properly to achieve a dreamy, inviting result.

Follow these 6 simple steps to make a magazine-worthy bed that’s also practical for day-to-day life.

1. Start with the bare mattress. You may want to protect it with a wool or cotton cover, which can add an extra layer of padding and extend the life of your mattress. Once a month, you should flip and vacuum your mattress to reduce wear and eliminate dust mites.

2. Sheets will be right up against your skin, so make sure they’re soft and comfortable, preferably in cotton with a high thread count. Stretch the fitted sheet across the mattress, pulling the elastic hem all the way over the bottom edge of the mattress.

3. Lay the flat sheet on top with the top edge meeting the end of the mattress, and tuck the sides and bottoms under. If you want a formal look, make hospital corners by draping the sheet evenly over the bed with a one-foot overhang at the bottom. Tuck the bottom edge of the sheet under the mattress. Grasp the side hem where it is folded near the bottom, pull it toward you in a taut crease and then raise the creased section vertically over the mattress in a triangle shape, smoothing the side of the sheet along the edge of the mattress with your other hand. Then, fold the creased section down over the side and tuck it under the mattress. Repeat this process on the other side of the bed, leaving the top untucked so it’s easy to slide in at night. Martha Stewart offers a video for a visual step-by-step explanation of this process.

4. Layer in a lightweight blanket that can add color and texture, as well as warmth. You may want to choose a color, print or fabric type that contrasts with those of your sheets and comforter for added interest.

5. The top layer makes a big visual statement, so choose it wisely. It can be a comforter, quilt, duvet or a thin bedspread. This layer should tie the rest of the bedding together and mesh well with the other visual elements in the room. You can switch it out seasonally to adjust the level of warmth and refresh the look of your bedroom. Tuck this layer under the mattress on the bottom and sides, or leave it untucked, depending on your preferences and the style of your bed frame.

6. Accessorize with pillows in various sizes as desired to take a bed from modern and minimal to cozy and bold in a welcoming way. Large, square European-style pillows are great for adding a decorative touch that anchors the bedding to the headboard. Standard pillows can be stacked in front of these, or laid flat at the top of the bed. Have fun with decorative throw pillows, adding in a pop of color or pattern.

Have other tips for how to make a bed? Leave us a note in the comments below.

Related: Bedroom Decorating Ideas