he regular pillow slip.

Rubber sheets and pillow-cases are not durable. They should be used
carefully, and frequently examined for holes or worn places by holding
them up to the light. Even a pin hole near the center may render a
rubber sheet or pillow-case as useless as a sieve.

SHEETS.--Sheets of ample proportions are necessary for comfort, and
important for sanitary reasons as well. For a bed of the dimensions
mentioned in this lesson sheets should be three yards long, and two
yards wide. A safe rule for any bed is to have the sheets one yard
longer and one yard wider than the mattress. A sheet of these dimensions
is large enough to be tucked under the sides and foot of the mattress,
while at least twelve inches are left to fold over the blankets at the
top. Cotton sheets are as good as linen for general use, or even better,
and are far less expensive.

DRAW SHEETS are used to cover rubber sheets, and to protect beds when
the rubbers are not used. In hospitals special draw sheets are usually
provided, but an ordinary sheet folded answers every purpose. New and
expensive sheets should not be used for draw sheets, since they are
more likely than other sheets to become stained. Draw sheets should be
wide enough to extend about four inches beyond the rubber sheet at the
top and bottom.

PILLOW COVERS.--Pillow covers are generally made of cotton, but persons
who can afford the cost frequently prefer linen, especially in hot
weather. Unless fastened with buttons or tapes, a pillow case should be
several inches longer than its pillow. It should be wide enough to slip
on easily, but not so wide that it wrinkles or allows the pillow to
turn. If it is too small the pillow will become hard and uncomfortable.
These small things, unimportant as they are to the well, may cause much
discomfort to a restless or nervous patient.

BLANKETS.--All wool blankets are both light and warm, and are
consequently the most comfortable bed covering. But unless they can be
dry cleaned frequently, it is better to select blankets made from one
part wool and two parts cotton. Blankets containing equal parts of wool
and cotton are warmer, but are more injured by washing. Very light
blankets of wool or outing flannel are useful in summer. Double blankets
should always be cut in two and bound at the ends, since single blankets
are easier than double blankets to handle and wash. Patients are
frequently too warmly covered by day. Too much warmth i