To fold a fitted sheet, follow these steps:

Top sheets aren't common in Europe, and some people in the U.S. and Canada are getting rid of them, too. Many people think the top sheet gets in the way, and they can be uncomfortable for people who move a lot in their sleep. The top sheet keeps the duvet from getting dirty, though, so people who get rid of the top sheet should wash their duvet cover regularly.

Seasonal bedding doesn't just mean having heavy blankets in winter and light ones in summer. Some people change their sheets with the season, too. Certain sheet materials are better for certain climates, so it may be beneficial to change sheet sets based on the weather. Flannel sheets may be better for winter because they trap heat, while light bamboo sheets may be more suited for summer weather. Ultimately, though, it's whatever works for you. If you love a light cotton sheet set all year long, go for it. Just make sure you wash them more than once a season!

In general, sheets should be washed weekly. For people who don't use their sheets every day, every other week may be okay. However, anyone who experiences seasonal allergies, sleeps with pets, or is prone to colds should wash their sheets as often as possible. Washing sheets gets rid of allergens and germs, so you're less likely to get sick while they sleep.

Bed sheets should be completely replaced every two to three years. If sheets are high quality and well cared for, they may last longer. It's important to replace sheets when they start to wear out because worn-out sheets can disrupt sleep. If sheets are showing signs of fading, it's best to replace them.

Bedsheet material is a matter of personal preference, but some materials are better than others at helping you sleep. A good material will absorb moisture and keep a person cool at night. Here are some of the most popular bedsheet materials:

The number of threads per square inch of fabric is the thread count. A high thread count usually means softer, longer-lasting sheets. It's not the most important thing to pay attention to when buying new sheets, however. A high thread count is nice, but it's not as important as the type of material, and a super high thread count can sometimes be a company's excuse for charging an exorbitant amount.

The right sheets can help you get a better night sleep. Sheets that trap moisture, or stay cool, can help people stay asleep longer. Consumers have also reported that fresh-smelling sheets help sleep, so add some extra detergent to the wash to get a fresh-laundered sheet smell. It might just give you sweet-smelling dreams.

In the U.S. and Canada, there are usually four pieces in a set of sheets. There's the fitted sheet, as well as a flat top sheet and two pillowcases. In Europe, however, bedding sets do not contain a top sheet. Europeans don't use a sheet between the fitted sheet and duvet or comforter. Wherever you're shopping, always read the product description or the package carefully to make sure you know exactly which pieces you're getting. This will help you determine if the set is a good price and which add-ons you might need so that everything matches.

People have been covering mattresses with sheets for a long time. This practice keeps the mattress from getting dirty and helps it last longer. Until 1959, there were no fitted sheets. Instead, a flat sheet was placed on top of the mattress and folded around the corners to fit the mattress. In 1959, a clever inventor added elastics to a flat sheet, and the fitted sheet was born.