The flat sheet is hemmed identically on three sides and has one larger hem on the fourth side. The wider hem folds back over your blanket, coverlet, or duvet, and can be finished with a simple stitch, hemstitch, or embroidery.

According to National Geographic, the first known mattress dates back to around 77,000 years ago. It was discovered in South Africa in 2011 and was made of reeds and rushes. Researchers believe that a ‘top sheet’ made of insect-repelling greenery was used to help ward off the unwanted night-time visitors.