If it were up to me, I’d sleep under a cozy pile of quilts, duvets, and pillows every night. But since my husband doesn’t share my constant need for warmth, we’ve simplified our bedding situation: a fitted sheet, a top sheet, a lightweight quilt, and just one pillow each. As it turns out, even that setup is considered a bit old school. These days, more and more people are skipping the top sheet altogether—and it’s quickly becoming the new normal.
Top sheets were originally designed to serve a practical purpose. Their main job was to act as a barrier between your body and the heavier blankets, like duvets or comforters. By using a top sheet, you could wash the lighter layers more frequently and avoid having to clean bulky bedding as often. According to Suzanne Pollak, founder of the Charleston Academy of Domestic Pursuits, “A proper bed requires a bottom sheet, a top sheet, a blanket, and actually on top of that, you should put some sort of top sheet as a coverlet.” That was the traditional way to make a bed, rooted in routine and hygiene.
So, why the sudden shift away from using top sheets? The answer comes down to convenience and personal comfort. For starters, skipping the top sheet makes it faster and easier to make the bed in the morning. There’s no need to carefully position an extra sheet—just throw the quilt or duvet over the fitted sheet, and you’re done. Plus, a lot of people find that top sheets become bunched up and tangled during the night, which makes them more annoying than useful.
This minimalist bedding trend is gaining serious momentum. In fact, Parachute, a popular Los Angeles-based linen brand, reports that nearly 40% of its customers prefer to buy bedding sets that don’t include a flat sheet at all. That’s nearly half of their customer base choosing to eliminate a layer that was once considered essential. As a result, many bedding companies now offer customizable sets that allow buyers to opt out of the top sheet entirely.
At the end of the day, whether or not to use a top sheet comes down to personal preference—and generational habits are playing a big role in this shift. Millennials, often known for favoring simplicity and practicality, have been a driving force behind the decline in top sheet use. They’re streamlining their routines, cutting out anything they deem unnecessary, and that includes one of the most traditional components of bed-making.
So, is the top sheet obsolete? Not quite. But it’s definitely on the decline. And if you’ve been wondering whether you’re the only one skipping it, rest assured—you’re in good company. The modern bedroom is evolving, and for many, that means less fabric, less hassle, and a whole lot more comfort.
