Bedding Basics
Familiarize yourself with these bedding terms and you'll be able to choose your linens like a pro.
Bed Skirt
An outer bed accessory that covers the box spring and hangs to the floor, also known as a dust ruffle
Duvet/Comforter Cover
An easy and affordable way to change the look of your bed or protect a down comforter
Euro Sham
A square pillow sham that is larger than the traditional sham and sits directly behind it on the bed
Flannel
Often all-cotton, with a napped surface that produces a soft, fuzzy sheet
Knit
Plain cotton linens that are also known as Jersey or T-shirt sheets
Neck Roll
A small, cylinder-shaped, decorative pillow
Matelasse
A lightweight, woven fabric with a quilted look that is often used for coverlets or bedspreads
Percale
A fabric with at least a 180-thread count, with a plain weave
Pillow Sham
A decorative pillow cover with a ruffled or tailored outer edge that is placed over a pillowcase
Pima Cotton
The highest quality of cotton available, with fine, extra-long fibers create a soft fabric
Sateen
A unique weave that gives sheets a lsheen and silky feel that resembles satin
Thread Count
The number of threads woven into each square inch of cloth. The higher the count, the softer, finer, and more luxurious the fabric. Quality linen thread counts start at 200.
Universal Fitted
A fitted sheet large enough to cover a mattress up to 15" deep with elastic sewn around the entire bottom of the sheet
-- The Nest Editors