Confused About Sheets? The Ultimate Guide to Bed Sheets & Bedding Basics

Shopping for bed sheets shouldn’t feel like studying for an exam—but we get it. Between fitted sheets, duvets, quilts, and all the rest, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve put together this no-nonsense guide to help you understand what you actually need (and what just sounds fancy).

We’ll walk through the most commonly asked questions about sheets and bedding—ones we’ve all Googled at some point—so you can build a bed that feels as good as it looks.

Sheet vs. Fitted Sheet: What’s the Difference?

Let’s clear up the most common confusion first.

• Fitted Sheet: This one has elastic around the edges and fits snugly over your mattress, like a stretchy hug for your bed.

• Flat Sheet: Also called a top sheet, this lays flat between you and your blanket or duvet. It adds a light, breathable layer—and can help keep your comforter cleaner for longer.

We’ve noticed that more people are skipping the flat sheet entirely (especially in warmer climates), but if you like that hotel-bed feel, it’s worth keeping in your setup.

Can You Use Queen Sheets on a Full-Size Mattress?

Yes, you can use queen sheets on a full-size mattress—and it actually works better than you might think.

Queen sheets are a little larger in both width and length, so you’ll get some extra fabric, especially with flat sheets. That extra drape can actually feel really cozy and luxurious—more fabric to tuck in or wrap around you.

When it comes to fitted sheets, they won’t be as snug, and you might have to smooth out a little extra slack. But if you’ve got a mattress topper or don't mind a bit of a looser fit, queen sheets are still a flexible and practical option.

While our queen sheets are made to perfectly fit queen mattresses, we understand that things don’t always have to be perfect. Sometimes a little extra room is exactly what you need. So yes, you can use queen sheets on a full bed—and they can still look and feel amazing.

Quilt vs. Comforter: What’s the Real Difference?

If you’ve ever stood in a bedding aisle wondering whether to grab a quilt or a comforter, you’re not alone.

• Quilt: Lightweight, usually with a decorative stitched design. Great for warmer nights or layering.

• Comforter: Thick, fluffy, and often your main blanket—especially in colder months.

Comforters are generally warmer and cozier, while quilts give a more breathable, laid-back vibe. If you like switching things up seasonally, having both on hand isn’t a bad idea.

What Makes Linen Sheets Different from Regular Sheets?

Let’s talk fabric—because not all sheets are created equal.

Cotton Sheets: Especially Turkish cotton, which we love, are soft, smooth, and breathable. Over time, they only get softer, and depending on the weave, they can feel different. Percale is crisp and cool to the touch, while sateen is silky and smooth. Turkish cotton, in particular, is known for its durability and luxurious feel.

Linen Sheets: Made from flax, linen has a unique texture that’s breathable and relaxed in look. It starts off a little rougher but softens beautifully after a few washes. Linen has that crinkled, lived-in vibe that a lot of people love for its effortless charm.

While we don’t sell linen, we’ve noticed that many of our customers love it for its natural feel and breathability. But if you’re after that textured, relaxed look but want to stick with cotton, percale cotton might be a perfect choice. It gives you that crinkled feel too—without the weight of linen.

In the end, it’s not about which fabric is “better” or “worse”—it’s about what feels right for you.

One More Thing: Don’t Obsess Over Thread Count

We’ve all seen those sheet sets boasting a “1000-thread count,” but here’s the truth: higher doesn’t always mean better.

• Quality matters more than quantity. A 200-thread-count sheet made with high-quality cotton can feel more luxurious than a 800-thread-count sheet made with cheap fibers.

• Weave matters too. Percale is crisp and cool; sateen is smooth and drapey.

If you’re ever unsure, check what material the sheets are made from—and buy from brands that value transparency.

Final Thoughts: Build Your Bed with Intention

At the end of the day, bedding is personal. You don’t need to follow trends or buy what everyone else has—just focus on what makes you feel good when you climb into bed.

• Like a crisp, classic feel? Go with percale cotton.

• Want something smoother and a bit luxe? Try sateen.

• Need breathable, natural texture? Linen might win you over.

• Prefer structure and style? Add a bedspread or top sheet to your routine.

At Merrily, we craft bedding with care—from 100% Turkish cotton—because we believe in timeless quality that feels as good as it looks. No shortcuts. No gimmicks. Just bedding that’s kind to your sleep and kind to the earth.

No-Fluff Summary

Here’s the bottom line: Know your basics—fitted vs. flat sheets, quilts vs. comforters, and what makes linen different from cotton—and you’ll shop smarter and sleep better. Choose materials that match your sleep style, and don’t fall for the thread count trap. Simple choices, better rest.