5 Ways To Keep Bed Sheets Tight

Skip the slip with these tips.

If you've got a bad case of shifty fitted sheets, you know how frustrating it is to wake up in the morning tangled up in bedding—and then having to make the bed from scratch just adds to the frustration. Usually, fitted sheets will slip around if they're not the right pocket size (even if you technically selected the appropriate bed size) or if the material is too silky and smooth.

Luckily, there are some little tips and tricks that'll help your fitted sheets stay in place—read on to find out how to keep your bed sheets tight and slip-free.

Related: The 17 Best Sheet Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Measure Pocket Size

Before buying sheets, you should not only consider your mattress's size (e,g., full, queen, king, etc.) but also the depth of your mattress. The biggest reason your fitted sheet might be coming undone is that it's too small or not deep enough—fitted sheets with deep pockets are less prone to slipping because the extra fabric can get tucked securely beneath the bed. Look at the pocket depth information on the sheet set's packaging to make sure it matches your mattress, but in general, 15 inches is considered deep.

Secure Sheets With Suspenders

This is perhaps the most reliable way to get your fitted sheets to stick sheet suspenders without having to buy an entirely new sheet set. Sheet suspenders are essentially just strips of elastic you attach to the corners of your fitted sheet, beneath the mattress, so it's properly hooked in place. Amazon has a variety of options you can purchase (like this one from Gorilla Grip), but you can actually make your own with thick strips of elastic and some sewing skills.

Use Safety Pins

Safety pins are a decent option in a pinch. However, if you're a rough thrasher while you sleep, this might not work and could even result in torn sheet corners. Only try this with heavy-duty safety pins and less active sleepers.

Add a Mattress Pad

A mattress pad may provide a little bit of grip so the fitted sheet can adhere better to the bed. Just make sure the material is not super smooth. Plus, it's extra cushion and can help an old mattress feel brand-new again!

Layer in a Grippy Undersheet

Alternatively, if you don't want to buy a mattress topper, rummage through your linen closet! Pull out a flat sheet that's not super silky or smooth—so something coarse like flannel or thick cotton—and place that on top of your mattress to create some friction and grip. Then layer on your fitted sheet.

Tips

If it's your flat sheet (also called a top sheet by some brands) that keeps shifting around at night, try making hospital corners, so it at least stays secure at the bottom of the bed. All this entails is folding the excess fabric at the corners underneath the mattress.

Related: Are Top Sheets Necessary? A Dermatologist Gives us His Advice on Our Podcast

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