Bedsheet Ghost Costume
The ultimate classic Halloween look made simple, comfortable, and spooky.
The bedsheet ghost is the quintessential, timeless Halloween costume. Chosen for its nostalgic charm, simplicity, and instant recognizability, this look transforms a simple white fabric sheet into a classic spooky specter. Whether you go traditional or add modern accessories, it is a fun and effortless choice for all ages.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~15 min
- Budget
- $5–25
Try it on
See yourself as Bedsheet Ghost
One clear photo of yourself; we render you in this costume — face untouched, full body, about 20 seconds.
One render, $1. No account needed — if it fails you're not charged. Pricing.
Your photo is sent to Google's Gemini API to make the render and isn't used for training. Renders are AI-generated and labelled.
Want a different costume on this photo, or a whole group in costume? Open the Try-On Studio.
What you need for a Bedsheet Ghost costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Bedsheet Ghost costume — one box instead of 5 pieces.
White flat bedsheet
A twin or full-sized solid white flat sheet, preferably cotton or polyester blend so it drape smoothly.
DIY: Use an old white flat sheet or a large piece of plain white fabric.
Fabric shears or scissors
Sharp scissors to cleanly cut out the eye holes without fraying the fabric.
DIY: Any sharp household scissors will work.
Black fabric marker or felt
Used to outline the eye holes for a cartoonish, defined look.
DIY: Use a standard black permanent marker or black felt scraps with fabric glue.
White baseball cap
Worn underneath the sheet to keep the fabric from shifting and sliding off your head.
DIY: Any fitted cap worn backwards will help anchor the sheet.
Black mesh fabric
A small piece of black mesh or tulle glued inside the eye holes to hide your eyes while allowing you to see.
DIY: Cut a small piece from an old pair of black tights or pantyhose.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Bedsheet Ghost costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Drape the white flat sheet evenly over your head, ensuring it hangs symmetrically on all sides.
- 2
Have a friend carefully mark the position of your eyes with a pencil or washable marker while the sheet is on.
- 3
Take the sheet off and fold it slightly at the marks, then use scissors to cut out two neat oval eye holes.
- 4
Optionally, glue pieces of black mesh fabric to the inside of the sheet over the eye holes using fabric glue.
- 5
Outline the outside of the eye holes with a thick black fabric marker to give them a classic cartoon definition.
- 6
Put on the white baseball cap (facing backward) to create a stable base, then drape the sheet over your head.
- 7
Adjust the drape so the eye holes align perfectly, and ensure the bottom hem does not drag on the ground to prevent tripping.
Makeup & hair
No makeup or hair styling is required since your entire head is covered, making this the ultimate low-maintenance costume.
Bedsheet Ghost for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- One person wears the classic white sheet ghost, and the other wears a floral pattern sheet ghost with matching sunglasses.
- group
- A squad of ghosts all wearing matching white sheets with different colored sunglasses or hats.
- kids
- Use a twin-sized sheet cut to a shorter length so they do not trip, paired with a pumpkin trick-or-treat bucket.
- Plus size
- Use a queen or king-sized flat sheet to ensure a comfortable, flowing drape with plenty of fabric.
- pet
- A small white pillowcase with cut-out ear and eye holes, draped gently over a calm dog for a quick photo op.
Tips
- Wear white or light-colored clothing underneath the sheet so dark colors do not bleed through the fabric.
- Always cut the bottom hem of the sheet so it sits at least two inches above the ground to avoid tripping.
- Wear a baseball cap backwards underneath the sheet; the brim will keep the fabric from resting directly on your face and eyes.
- If you plan to be outdoors at night, carry a glow stick or place a small LED light under the sheet for a glowing effect.
Bedsheet Ghost costume FAQ
- How do you keep a bedsheet ghost costume from slipping?
- Wear a baseball cap backwards or a snug beanie underneath the sheet. You can use a safety pin to secure the sheet to the cap so it stays perfectly aligned with your eyes.
- Can you see out of a sheet ghost costume?
- Yes, by cutting eye holes. To hide your eyes from others while maintaining visibility, glue black mesh or sheer pantyhose fabric to the inside of the eye holes.
- What size bedsheet should I use for a ghost costume?
- A twin-sized flat sheet is ideal for kids and shorter adults. A full or queen-sized flat sheet works best for taller adults to ensure full coverage without dragging.
Did you know? The bedsheet ghost trope originated in theatrical productions during the 19th century, where actors wore white sheets to represent deceased characters because it was easy to see on dimly lit stages.