How To Create A Dry River Bed

Making a bed the proper way is a lifelong skill that everyone should know. First off, there's no better way to start your day because it leaves you feeling accomplished and ready for anything. Plus, coming home to a nicely-made bed is perfect for decompressing and helping you relax.

Making your bed is essentially the same as getting yourself dressed. You start with something underneath (like a mattress pad or protector) then layer on the basics – i.e. the sheets, pillows and comforter. Lastly, you can accessorize with decorative pillows and a throw.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab tests bedding of all kinds, from mattresses to duvets, so we know a little something about making a bed the right way. Here are our expert tips for making your bed, from time-saving tricks to insider secrets that make it look luxurious.

Step 1: Protect and cover your mattress

You won't need to put it on every time you make your bed, but using a mattress protector can help extend the life of your mattress by preventing stains from spills and damage from wear and tear. It's also a good idea to use pillow protectors so you won't need to wash your pillows as often. These protectors are especially important for anyone with allergies because the fabric blocks household allergens from settling into your pillows and mattress.

You can also add a mattress pad (which goes on like a fitted sheet) or a mattress topper (which sits on top of the bed) to increase the comfort or support of your mattress. And if you want to use a bed skirt for decorative purposes, you'll need to place it underneath the mattress first.

Maximum Mattress Protector

Aller-Ease amazon.com

$37.00

Maximum Pillow Protector

Aller-Ease amazon.com

$15.99

Premium Mattress Protector

Protect-A-Bed amazon.com

$60.79

Bed Bug Mattress Protector Kit

Protect-A-Bed wayfair.com

$179.90

Step 2: Add the bed sheets

The right sheet set can make all the difference in a comfy bed; after all, it directly touches your skin all night long. First, place the fitted sheet over your mattress and any of its toppers, making sure all four corners are tucked in well.

Next up: the top sheet. (Though the top sheet is optional and some brands are starting to sell sets without it). Here's how to make it look neat so it doesn't stick out:

First, lay the sheet across your bed with the top fabric facing down — that means if there's a pattern on the sheet, the dull side should be face-up so that it's visible when you turn down your sheets! The sheet should be centered with the sides evenly hanging over the edges of the mattress.

Next, create hospital corners (don't let the name fool you; luxury hotels use this method, too!). First, tuck the sheet under the mattress along the foot of the bed. At the right corner, lift the hanging side of the sheet up and lay it on your bed. There will be an extra flap of fabric hanging down; tuck that piece under the mattress. Fold the side down again and tuck it under. Repeat this step on the other side for a nice, tightly-made bed

Step 3: Layer on your covers

This is where you add your comforter, duvet, quilt, or whatever cover you prefer to use. It's the most visible part of your bed, so make sure you love the design if you're using a duvet cover! Lay your bed cover out over your sheets so the sides are evenly hanging over the edges.

At the top of the bed, fold down the comforter to leave enough space for your pillows. You can also fold down the top sheet for a layered look. And if the sheet is wrinkled, you can iron just the visible portion – this is what home stagers do when they prep a house for sale.

Step 4: Place your pillows

First, put on the pillows you actually use: These will sit against your headboard. You can use the pillowcases that comes with your sheet set, but for an extra luxurious bed you can opt for a silk pillowcase: it feels great and helps reduce bedhead and facial creases. Next, add on shams, which are pillows that are more decorative than functional and usually match the comforter.

Step 5: Add on throw pillows

For the best-looking bed, add additional throw pillows or shams. Feel free to mix and match here – this final step is all about appearance and preference. You can choose from an assortment of square, oblong, or rolled pillows in coordinating fabrics. Five decorative pillows is the ideal number for your bed to look full, but not too full.

You can also add a throw blanket at the foot of the bed. To make it look neat, fold it horizontally like a fan. This also makes it easier to pull it up into position when you need extra warmth at night.

Set of 4 Decoratie Throw Pillows

Phantoscope amazon.com

$19.99

Embroidery Oblong Throw Pillow

Your Smile amazon.com

$8.99

Plush Fleece Blanket

Wonder Miracle amazon.com

$19.95

Lexie Sachs, Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Director Lexie Sachs earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Fiber Science from Cornell University, and she researches, tests and reports on fabric-based products ranging from sheets, mattresses and towels to bras, fitness apparel and other clothing.

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