A perfectly made bed can instantly transform your bedroom — from a messy space into a cozy retreat. But beyond looks, learning how to make a bed the right way also means better sleep, easier cleaning, and longer-lasting bedding. Whether you're starting from scratch or giving your setup a little refresh, this 8-step guide will walk you through how to make a bed like a pro — layer by layer, from the base to the finishing touches.
Before we start, let's gather what you'll need.
Materials You'll Need
To achieve that clean, hotel-style comfort at home, here are your essentials:
Bed frame and mattress
Bed skirt
Mattress topper or pad
Fitted sheet
Flat sheet
Comforter or quilt
Sleeping pillows and pillowcases
Decorative pillows or shams (optional)
Throw blanket
Optional luxury additions: silk pillowcases, linen spray, weighted blanket, or a light bed runner
If you're looking to upgrade your foundation or linens, explore Costway's Beds & Bed Frames for sturdy and stylish bases, and Costway's Bedding Collection for everything from sheets to duvets.
Step 1: Start With a Bed Skirt
A bed skirt is more than just a decorative touch — it gives your bed a polished, elegant finish while hiding the space beneath, making your room look tidier and more organized. It's perfect for concealing storage boxes, under-bed clutter, or even the edges of your box spring, instantly elevating the overall aesthetic of your bedroom.
How to do it:
Remove your mattress and lay the bed skirt evenly over the box spring or bed base.
Make sure all corners are properly aligned and that the skirt hangs evenly on all sides for a balanced, symmetrical look.
Smooth out any wrinkles or folds before placing your mattress back on top to ensure a neat, seamless finish.
Pro Tip: For an extra crisp and refined appearance, iron or steam your bed skirt before installation.
A perfectly smooth bed skirt instantly transforms your bed from ordinary to elegant, giving your entire room a more polished and luxurious feel.
Step 2: Add a Mattress Topper
A mattress topper adds a luxurious layer of comfort while protecting your mattress from wear, stains, and everyday use. It's the foundation of a cozy bed — giving you that hotel-level plushness right at home.
Start by centering the topper neatly on the mattress, making sure all corners align so it sits evenly and won't slide during sleep. If your topper doesn't have straps or grip, place a non-slip mat underneath for added security.
Different materials create different experiences: memory foam molds to your body for pressure relief, feather toppers add airy softness, and gel-infused options help regulate temperature for hot sleepers.
Though it may seem like a small step, adding a topper can completely transform your sleep — giving your bed a deeper, more cushioned feel that invites you to sink in and relax every night.
Step 3: Lay Down Your Sheets
Now comes the base layer you'll feel directly against your skin — the sheets, which play a major role in your overall comfort and sleep quality. Think of them as the foundation of your bed's coziness, setting the tone for how soft, breathable, and inviting your sleep experience will be.
Start with the fitted sheet. Pull it snugly over all four corners of the mattress or topper, making sure it sits tight and smooth without any wrinkles or bunching. A properly fitted sheet should hug your mattress securely, giving you a clean, crisp surface to lie on.
Next, layer your flat sheet on top, aligning the long side with the length of the bed. For a professional, hotel-style touch, place the finished side face-down so that when you fold it back later, the decorative hem is on display.
Before moving on, use your hands to gently smooth away any creases or folds. This small step instantly makes your bed feel more luxurious and helps maintain that freshly-made look day after day.
Step 4: Make Hospital Corners
This detail separates a hotel-ready bed from an everyday one — it's the secret to that crisp, polished look you see in luxury suites. Making hospital corners might seem like a small step, but it makes a huge difference in how tidy and structured your bed appears. Not only do they keep your sheets perfectly in place, but they also prevent annoying wrinkles and bunching throughout the night, ensuring a smooth surface every time you slip into bed.
Here's how: Start by tucking the bottom edge of the flat sheet securely under the mattress at the foot of the bed. Then, lift one side of the sheet at a 45-degree angle to create a neat diagonal flap. Tuck the hanging portion tightly beneath the mattress, fold the lifted corner down to form a triangle, and tuck it in again for a seamless finish. Repeat the process on the other side.
The result? Clean, hotel-worthy edges and sharp, crisp lines that make your bed look refined — and feel extra luxurious every night.
Step 5: Lay Down Your Comforter or Quilt
This is the star layer — the one that defines your bed's personality and sets the overall mood of your bedroom. Your comforter or quilt isn't just for warmth; it's also the visual centerpiece that ties all your bedding elements together.
Choose your top layer based on the season: a plush, fluffy duvet or comforter brings cozy warmth in the winter, while a lightweight quilt or coverlet is perfect for the breezy comfort of summer. Once you've chosen your piece, spread it evenly over the bed so both sides drape symmetrically, creating a sense of balance and harmony.
For a designer-inspired look, fold the top edge back halfway to show off the crisp sheet beneath, or fold the comforter down to mid-bed for a layered, relaxed effect. If you prefer a neat and polished style, tuck the edges slightly under the mattress to achieve that clean, hotel-like finish that feels both inviting and refined.
Step 6: Arrange Your Pillows
Pillows are where comfort meets design, adding both softness and personality to your bedroom. They have the power to transform a plain bed into a stylish focal point, giving it structure, balance, and a sense of luxury.
Start with your sleeping pillows — the foundation of your setup. Fluff them by holding both sides and gently squeezing inward to bring back their volume and shape. Place them flat against the headboard or propped slightly upright for a supportive, layered appearance.
Next, introduce decorative pillows to create visual depth. Mix and match fabrics like linen, velvet, or cotton to add contrast and texture. Try combining solid colors with subtle patterns to reflect your personal style.
Pro Tip: Lightly “karate chop” the center of each pillow — this creates a natural crease that gives your bed that effortless, designer-inspired look.
If minimalism is your style, keep things simple: a single row of sleeping pillows paired with one or two accent cushions can look refined, modern, and perfectly balanced.
Step 7: Add a Throw Blanket
This is the cozy finishing layer that ties everything together — the final touch that makes your bed feel complete. A throw blanket adds warmth, texture, and personality, effortlessly elevating the entire look of your room.
For a formal, tailored style, neatly fold the throw in thirds and lay it evenly across the foot of the bed, creating a clean horizontal line. Prefer something more relaxed? Try draping it diagonally across the corner or loosely gathering it near the edge for a casual, lived-in feel.
Choose a throw that contrasts with your bedding — a chunky knit over crisp cotton or soft faux fur against smooth linen. Beyond style, it's also incredibly functional, perfect for afternoon naps, reading in bed, or cozying up on a chilly evening.
Step 8: Add a Luxury Touch
The final step is all about indulgence — those small details that make bedtime feel like a spa retreat.
Silk or satin pillowcases: Smooth on hair and skin, keeping you cool through the night.
Linen spray: Mist a light fragrance like lavender or eucalyptus for a soothing sleep environment.
Weighted or decorative blankets: Add texture and extra comfort while anchoring the look.
A simple tray: For extra charm, place a small decorative tray with a candle or a vase on the bed when staging your room.
These finishing touches don't just enhance the visual — they elevate the experience.
Final Thoughts
Making a bed isn't just about tucking in sheets — it's a small daily ritual that helps you start and end your day with a sense of calm and order. When your bed looks good, your room feels instantly more inviting, almost like a sanctuary waiting for you to unwind.
Taking a few extra minutes each morning to smooth your sheets, fluff your pillows, and straighten your comforter might seem simple, but it sets the tone for the rest of your day. A well-made bed gives you a sense of accomplishment before you've even had your coffee. It can even help you sleep better at night — studies have shown that a tidy, comfortable sleep environment promotes deeper rest and relaxation.
Whether you love a crisp, hotel-style setup with perfectly tucked corners or a cozy, layered look filled with soft textures and relaxed folds, mastering how to make a bed allows you to shape your space to match your personality and lifestyle. You can play with color palettes, mix fabrics for visual depth, or add seasonal layers for warmth and comfort. Each choice becomes part of your daily expression of care — for your home and for yourself.
And remember, a thoughtfully made bed doesn't have to be complicated. It's about comfort, consistency, and a little creativity. Once you find a routine that fits you, the process becomes effortless — a simple act that brings peace and beauty to your everyday life.
Sleep beautifully, rest fully, and let your perfectly made bed welcome you home every single day. 🌙✨
