Possible Origins:
* Military Origins: The tight, neat corners made in hospital beds likely originated in the military, where maintaining order and cleanliness was paramount. Soldiers in barracks or field hospitals needed to keep their bedding organized and sanitary.
* Efficiency in Hospitals: Hospital beds have a constant turnover of patients. Taut, smooth corners create a clean, sterile environment, easily cleaned, and prevent wrinkles or folds that could harbor bacteria.
* Patient Comfort: While the main purpose is sanitation, tight corners also help prevent sheets from becoming loose and bunching up, which can be uncomfortable for patients.
Evolution of the Term:
* "Hospital Corners" vs. "Military Corners": There's some debate about whether "hospital corners" or "military corners" came first. Both terms likely emerged around the same time, reflecting the shared need for order and cleanliness in both settings.
* Cultural Spread: The practice, and subsequently the name, spread beyond military and hospital settings, becoming a standard method of making beds in homes, hotels, and other places where clean, neat bedding is desired.
No Official Source:
While the exact origin of the term "hospital corners" is unclear, it's safe to say that the practice itself is rooted in the need for cleanliness, efficiency, and comfort, all of which are important in hospitals, military settings, and everyday life.