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After a long day of Zoom calls, seeing friends or family, and checking off your to-do list, there’s nothing quite as appealing as your cozy bed at home. However, where you lay your weary head in the evening can make a difference in the quality of your sleep. If you spend the night tossing and turning because you’re uncomfortable, you’ll wake up tired. But if you enjoy the texture of your bed sheets, it makes it easier to fall and stay asleep.
In recent years, many bedding brands have turned away from thread count and have instead focused on high-quality materials beyond traditional cotton. (Though, yes, cotton is still a major player!) From satin and bamboo to hemp, plenty of new and revolutionary options are available to the everyday customer—and there is definitely something to meet your needs. I and my testers tried a variety of bed sheets to find the top contenders for excellent sleep (and beyond). Read on to see the results.
If you overheat when you catch zzzs, cotton sheets could improve your rest since they are moisture-wicking and offer breathability for hot sleepers or warmer climates. Gaiam’s appropriately titled ‘RELAX’ bedsheets are gaining reviews as some of the top picks, especially since they’re durable, easy to care for, and soften with each wash.
My tester, Rebecca, was up for the challenge of these cotton sheets, and her experience began when they arrived in a simple cardboard box. The sheets were traditionally packaged, neatly folded within cardboard inserts, and enclosed in a drawstring bag that matched the material and pattern of the sheets. Rebecca said they were in pristine condition, with a white graphic label around the entire package, ensuring no snags, smudges, or torn labels. Rebecca calls herself an enthusiast for vibrant designs and immediately fell in love with the lively patterns of the sheets, preferring them over neutral tones.
Despite the initial rough texture—which contradicted the claim of extra softness from pre-washing—Rebecca found that after a wash, the sheets began to soften, hinting at a promise of further comfort with subsequent washes. Their lightweight construction, ideal for the impending summer months and for those who prefer lighter bedding, left a positive impression. Rebecca appreciated the rarity of finding sheets made entirely from natural cotton, a feature that appealed to her environmentally conscious mindset.
Rebecca and her husband always look for sheets with deep pockets and a snug fit for her thick king mattress, and the Gaiam sheets were easy to put on, with secure corners requiring minimal effort. However, she noted that the flat sheet retained wrinkles post-wash, which could be a downfall if you like a crisp look to your bedding. However, she did point out the intentional lived-in appearance advertised by the brand, so wrinkles are to be expected.
Regarding performance, Rebecca says the sheets provided a light, cool sleeping experience, though the initial scratchiness may deter some users. Rebecca emphasized that these sheets best suit individuals seeking comfort over luxury.
These cotton sheets are cooling, thin, and soft—but they’re purposefully wrinkly.
For an uber-luxury experience, hot sleepers can’t go wrong with percale cotton. This specific fabric is known for its tight weave and crisp feel, characterized by a one-over-one-under weaving pattern that results in a smooth and durable fabric. SIJO is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the best investments in bedding, and our tester, Elizabeth, was excited to try this set.
Her experience with the SIJO sheets began with the arrival of a nondescript box with no mention of the brand. Upon opening, the sheets were in a bag matching the color of the sheets, tied together with a ribbon she pulled apart to open. This reminded her of unwrapping a present—and set the tone for a high-end experience.
However, Elizabeth said the fabric felt fairly normal, and a strong chemical odor detracted from the luxury feel. Despite this, she appreciated their softness, although they didn't stand out compared to other sheets she had purchased. As someone who prioritizes cooling sheets, Elizabeth was pleased to find that the SIJO sheets helped reduce her discomfort while sleeping, particularly as a hot sleeper.
Putting the sheets on her bed proved to be a mild challenge due to the lack of tags indicating the top or bottom. However, once on, they fit her queen-sized bed with a mattress topper well, though she found the process slightly laborious and took about five minutes to complete. Despite her initial skepticism, Elizabeth was impressed with the sheets over time, noting their effectiveness in reducing her discomfort while sleeping and their attractive forest green color.
These percale sheets set the bar high for hot sleepers who need to feel cooler while they sleep, but they can be tricky to put on your bed.
Some people run hot—and some people can’t stop sweating no matter how hard they try. If you’re the latter and sleeping becomes a nightmare, it’s time to try these sheets. They’re made of sustainable eucalyptus fibers from FSC and PEFC-certified eucalyptus wood pulp. Why does this matter? The material is innately moisture-wicking and cool, so it helps your body regulate throughout the night. In addition to cooling, many online reviewers are fans of the soft texture and the antimicrobial treatment. This is helpful for those with allergies since it fights mold, mites, and dust.
Heather's experience with the AiryWeight Eucalyptus Sheet Set began with the arrival of the sheets in a standard shipping box. Inside, she found the sheets neatly packaged in a minimalist package made from the same material as the sheets, complete with a simple bow and tag, giving off a clean and professional appearance.
From the first touch, Heather found the sheets to be incredibly smooth and soft, even more so than her silk pillowcase. She said their lightweight nature lived up to their name, feeling airy and light. The soft gray color added a calming touch to her bedroom decor. Heather's primary concern when shopping for sheets is their non-toxic and sustainable qualities, and she emphasized the importance of investing in bedding that promotes a healthy sleep environment.
Heather said putting the sheets on her bed was effortless, taking only three to five minutes due to their lightweight construction.
Heather appreciated their easy fit and smooth finish, opting to only use the fitted sheet and pillowcases due to her restless sleep habits. Despite initially not prioritizing cooling features in sheets, Heather found herself pleasantly surprised by the lightness and smoothness of the eucalyptus sheets, even preferring them over her silk pillowcase for their luxurious yet cozy feel.
Overall, Heather highly recommends the AiryWeight Eucalyptus Sheet Set for its comfort, sustainability, and luxurious feel and is considering purchasing another set.
These lightweight and airy sheets are the softest of all—and worth the price tag—however, a matte appearance would be nice.
Sleep Number is known for various mattresses—from hard to plush—and the same is true with these sheets. They are designed to regulate temperature, ensuring you stay cool and warm when needed. They are ideal for everyday sleepers who don’t need too many features in their bedding. With a design that allows for flexibility and movement, these sheets stay securely throughout the night, providing a smooth fit for your bed. Plus, simplified orientation indicators make bed-making hassle-free.
Our tester Karla found the Sleep Number sheets neatly packaged in a separate gray cloth zip-up box that arrived in good condition and was easy to open with the zipper packaging. Initially, she was impressed by the high-quality appearance of the packaging and the lovely color and shine of the sheets inside. However, upon touching the sheets while still folded in the packaging, Karla initially found them less soft than expected. She was relieved when they felt noticeably softer once spread out.
When shopping for sheets and bedding, Karla's preferences lean towards very soft sheets with a sateen finish for added shine. She usually opts for breathability and cooling properties since her husband tends to run hot. Putting on the sheets was really easy and fast. Karla liked the elastic straps at each corner of the fitted sheet, which kept it securely in place each night. Overall, making the bed took around five minutes, including putting on the pillowcases and spreading out the top sheet.
Karla said the sheets lived up to their claims of being cooling, which was a perk for her husband—but a downfall for her sleep experience. Karla added blankets on cooler nights, so she wouldn’t recommend them as a true regulator for all types of sleepers since they may not be suitable for those who tend to feel cold at night. Despite this, Karla appreciated the sheets' overall comfort and secure fit, especially noting that the fitted sheet stayed in place throughout the night despite her movements.
Karla chose the rose color and found it to be “lovely,” with a subtle mauve tone. She also appreciated the light shine of the sheets. While Karla recommended the sheets—particularly for hot sleepers—she noted their higher price point might not be fully worth it. She said they did not feel significantly nicer than a set of $60 sheets in appearance or softness, although they did seem well-made and durable.
Excellent sheets for regulating hot sleepers with a soft touch and gorgeous color, but may leave cool sleepers feeling chilly at night.
Have you ever noticed that you sleep better at a hotel than at home? And you wake up feeling refreshed—not only by the killer views from your room but also by the pure zen of your bed? Bring a little luxury home with a sheet set from Cariloha. Appropriately titled “resort sheets,” they live up to this promise with the ultra-soft and cozy bamboo fabric.
Upon arrival, my tester Rory found the sheets in good condition, packaged in a simple brown box and wrapped in plastic. Inside, they were enclosed in a drawstring bag made of the same material as the sheets, along with a recycled paper tag attached with a safety pin. Rory appreciated the sustainable packaging and the inclusion of a thank-you note with care instructions and cardboard to maintain the sheets' shape.
Rory's first impression of the sheets was positive, noting their soft, silky, and cooling feel. They felt durable, and Rory said she expects them to hold up well through multiple washes—a key factor when considering sheet purchases. When shopping for bed sheets, Rory says she prioritizes durability and coolness, seeking a material that can withstand frequent washing without pilling and won't cause overheating during the night.
She reports that putting the sheets on the bed was straightforward. They were labeled for the "long side" and "short side," so she didn’t have to put them halfway on, only to realize they were the wrong way. All in, she says it took about five minutes to complete. After sleeping on the sheets for five nights, Rory initially experienced some heat on the first night but found subsequent nights to be comfortable, aligning with the marketing promise.
Rory appreciated the sheets' simple yet attractive solid-color design, noting their luxurious appearance with the sateen finish. Overall, Rory was impressed with the softness and luxurious feel of the sheets and felt confident in recommending them to others.
We like these bamboo sheets for their softness, durability, cooling properties, attractive design, and impressive craftsmanship.
There’s bamboo sheets, and then there are Quince organic bamboo sheets that won Sleep Foundation’s top pick. These sheets are touted as the ultimate eco-friendly luxury, made from 100% viscose from organic bamboo. With a soft sateen weave and temperature-regulating properties, these sheets offer the most comfortable night of rest. But do they live up to the promise and their award-winning reputation?
Upon arrival, the package containing the sheet set from Quince was hefty, which surprised Vivian since it was just sheets. However, it did appear at her doorstep in pristine condition, sealed and clean, with the set plastic-wrapped and enclosed in a matching bamboo drawstring bag. Vivian, who had previously ordered from Quince and was impressed, eagerly anticipated trying their sheets again.
Vivian said the sheets felt luxurious and cool to the touch, with clean and tight seams and hems. She was glad she picked the eucalyptus color, which she described as a pleasant silvery green with a sateen finish. Despite their high-end feel, Vivian found Quince's set less than half the price of similar options, making them an attractive and more affordable alternative.
She also really liked the 16-inch depth for a king-size mattress and elastic all around the base, eliminating the need for top/bottom labels. This meant she could get the sheets on quickly and without much effort. She found the temperature-regulating properties to be effective, allowing her to sleep comfortably through varying spring evenings, even when adding extra blankets on cooler nights.
Vivian praised the sheets for their comfort and durability and was impressed by how they regulated both her preference for toasty warmth and her husband’s tendency to run hot at night. The sheets washed well without wrinkles or snags, although Vivian deviated from the suggested washing instructions without adverse effects.
These organic bamboo sheets are worth the price for their luxurious feel, temperature regulation, affordability, and ease of care.
SFERRA is on the higher end of bedding, but for good reason. Their super popular percale bedding is crafted in Italy from pure, extra-long-staple cotton, known for its exceptionally soft feel due to the longer fibers. Extra-long staple cotton creates stronger, softer, and more durable sheets than those made from standard cotton varieties. While it’s an investment, it could be meaningful for a good night’s rest.
Our tester, Laney, was excited to try them after hearing rave reviews from her mother-in-law and father-in-law, who swear by the brand. She was pleasantly surprised to find the SFERRA Celeste Bedding Collection packaged in a large padded manila envelope, which she said gave it a bit of a personal touch compared to the usual box delivery. Inside, the sheets were enclosed in separate plastic packages, each with clear care instructions. Laney's initial touch of the sheets left her surprised by their lightweight and thin feel, which made her think twice about her preconceived notion that quality equated to weight. However, she couldn't deny the elegance of the stitching, hinting at the sheets' craftsmanship.
As someone who values higher thread count and breathable cotton sheets within a specific price range, Laney prioritizes snug-fitting fitted sheets with a natural feel, steering clear of satin-like textures. Although the sheets were easy to put on the bed, they didn’t have indicator labels for the top/bottom or sides, which led to some initial confusion. Nevertheless, Laney said the sheets accommodated her standard king mattress. It took about five minutes to make the bed.
Laney found the SFERRA Celeste sheets soft, comfortable, and breathable, creating a comfy sleeping experience. However, given their steep price point, she grappled with justifying their value compared to other non-luxury sheets. Laney said they may be worth it, considering the sheets might grow softer over time and maintain their durability. While she admired the classic design and versatility of the white color, Laney believed that the sheets' true value might require patience to appreciate fully.
Though lightweight, soft, and comfortable, we aren’t quite sure of their value compared to other sheets in its price range.
These sheets, favored by those with sensitive skin, offer a smooth, hypoallergenic, and moisture-wicking experience for optimal sleep health. They’re made from 100% TENCEL™ Lyocell, one of the most durable cellulose fibers, and promote color retention and resilience. Here, our reviewer shares her experience.
Upon arrival in standard plastic packaging, the Brooklyn Bedding Deep Pocket TENCEL Sheets were in good condition but emitted a slightly sour odor, so our tester Iris washed them. While Iris found the sheets to have a pleasant cooling effect, she noted they might not suit those preferring cozier bedding, especially during colder months. She also found the pillow coverings to be slightly scratchy, though she anticipated this issue to diminish with more washes as the sheets soften over time.
Iris appreciated the sheets' versatility, noting their suitability for both warmer and cooler climates, depending on personal preference. Despite finding the fitted sheet easy to put on with its thick elastic, Iris said it was slightly oversized for her king bed, compromising the snug fit. She also noted the sheets' effective cooling properties but found them lacking in wrinkle resistance as promised, which may require extra attention during care routines to maintain a smooth appearance.
While Iris found the khaki color option visually appealing and complimentary to her bedding ensemble, she wished there was a broader range of colors to choose from to accommodate different decor preferences.
Great sheets for warmer climates or seasons but don’t offer a wide range of colors — plus may need several washings if you love a super-soft pillowcase
When you need sheets and you want them now, ordering from Amazon is the fastest and easiest solution. While Amazon sometimes has a bad reputation for low-quality items, this sheet set is the exception. DOZ by SIJO is a new bedding line crafted from innovative materials under the expert umbrella of the SIJO brand, known for its award-winning products and industry recognition. DOZ promises high-quality, well-crafted, and affordably priced items designed to enhance your sleep. But do they measure up? My tester, Madeline, tried them out.
When Madeline received the bed sheets, she appreciated the neatly packed presentation in a cardboard box from Amazon, finding the outer fabric pouch both convenient and visually appealing. Upon touching them, Madeline was surprised by their softness, which landed between silk and cotton sateen, though she typically prefers crisper cotton or linen sheets. Thanks to the deep pockets, putting them on her queen-size mattress was a breeze, though she noted extra fabric due to their generous sizing.
While the sheets were undeniably soft and comfortable to sleep on, Madeline found them slightly softer than her preference and didn't experience the significant cooling effect as advertised despite their lightweight and breathable description. She also didn't notice any particular advantage for sensitive skin, as claimed. She was slightly disappointed by the sheer quality of the white color, which allowed the pillow and mattress protector to show through, but she didn’t see it as a dealbreaker. Nonetheless, she found them decent and comparable to sheets in a comfortable AirBnB, making them a viable option for occasional use.
Madeline appreciated the convenience of the packaging and the softness of the sheets, acknowledging they might appeal to those who prioritize the softest possible feel in their bedding. However, she felt they were slightly overpriced for the quality. Despite these drawbacks, she remained open to recommending them to others who prioritize softness and comfort above all else in their sheets.
For a guest room, these sheets are a no-brainer, but they aren’t as high-quality compared to others on my list.
If you care about the earth and want sheets that can withstand it all, PeachSkin Sheets could be your best bet. These are made of a high-performance smart fabric, meticulously crafted to keep you cool at night. They also prioritize sustainability with an OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification. These sheets are super soft and have the highest thread count on our list: 1500. They also have the deepest pockets, at 22 inches. Our tester, Rachel, tried them out.
When Rachel received the PeachSkin Sheets, she was charmed by the adorable packaging, complete with a custom bag and a selection of color swatches. Upon feeling the sheets, she noted their performance fabric texture, which was exceptionally soft but reminiscent of athletic gear rather than traditional cotton. As someone who typically prefers high-thread-count cotton sheets, Rachel was intrigued by the unique feel of these sheets, which had a tight weave yet remained breathable.
Putting the sheets on the mattress was a breeze for Rachel, thanks to their extra-deep design that easily accommodated her mattress and mattress topper. However, she found them slightly warm due to their polyester composition, which might be ideal for those who enjoy a cozy bed in cooler room temperatures. Despite their simplicity, Rachel discovered that following the washing instructions was crucial for maintaining the sheets' quality over time, which she admitted to neglecting initially.
Although Rachel admired the overall aesthetic of the sheets, she found them not perfectly aligned with her current lifestyle, especially with a baby in the house, since the care instructions are more detailed and specific. However, she recommends them to those who are able to invest in and maintain premium bedding since these sheets could indeed be an exceptional choice, given their quality and comfort. It has the widest selection of colors for any sheets set on my list.
These are the definition of investment sheets, and we recommend them for their quality, color selection, and mattress depth, but they do require more detailed care.
If you’re a self-proclaimed interior design lover, chances are you’ve heard of Boll & Branch. They’re known as one of the leaders in the category, with a wide range of bedding, towels, and more. Their flannel solid sheets are meant to make you feel warm and toasty on the coldest nights—but luxurious like their other products.
My tester, Jackie, found the Boll & Branch Flannel Solid Sheet Set impressive from the moment she opened it, remarking on its anticipated quality and luxurious feel. The sheets, made from 100% organic cotton, boasted beautiful stitching and provided warmth and coziness without feeling heavy. Weighing 6.5 ounces per square yard, they struck a balance between warmth and breathability, and despite their weight, they didn't cause overheating.
Jackie believed they were worth the investment despite being the most expensive set due to their superior craftsmanship and longevity. These sheets offer softness and warmth, are made from long-staple organic cotton, and feature a brushed and triple-sheared finish to prevent pilling. Although Jackie noted some minor pilling after two months of use, the sheets remained comfortable and retained their quality, even getting softer with each wash.
Despite their higher price, Jackie says this flannel set is worth the splurge, given its organic certification, thoughtful manufacturing process, and texture. She appreciated the sheets' consistency in comfort and quality over time and their ability to regulate temperature throughout the night.
If you’re a fan of flannel sheets in the winter, these are investment-worthy with a luxuriously soft and warm texture, high-quality construction, and a thoughtful manufacturing process.
If you’re in the cult of linen sheets, there is only one option for you—and of course, that’s soft, cooling linen. Though you may associate this type of fabric with summer, this set from Brooklinen is cozy all year round. It’s made from 100% European Flax, offering lightweight coziness, and it’s OEKO-TEX® certified. It also features some convenient details like pillowcase envelope closures and labeled sides for easy bed-making.
Our tester, Nicole is Team Linen, and she found the Brooklinen Linen Hardcore Sheet Bundle offered an investment-worthy linen bedding solution for those seeking quality and variety in their bedroom essentials. When she first touched the sheets, she could tell they were pre-washed for added softness and described the sheets as a cozy balance between slightly coarse and smooth, providing breathability and comfort. With 10 color options available, Nicole went for the indigo color and found it striking within her bedroom but slightly lighter in shade than she anticipated.
Nicole appreciated the sheets' durability, noting their ability to maintain a crisp appearance even after a month of use. Despite initial roughness, the sheets softened significantly after a few washes, offering a comfortable sleeping experience. Nicole liked the smart details to make life easier, like labeled ends on the fitted sheet and envelope closure on the pillowcases to make bed-making faster and prevent pillows from slipping out at night.
Nicole pointed out that the initial roughness of the sheets may be off-putting to some users, requiring a breaking-in period to achieve optimal softness. Nevertheless, the overall durability and comfort of the sheets make them a worthwhile investment for those seeking versatile and high-quality bedding.
These washed linen sheets, made from 100% European Flax, offer unique color variations, minimal shrinkage, and ultimate softness for year-round comfort.
While jersey fabric sheets are sometimes associated with a college dorm, we think they’ve graduated over the years to be a staple in any household. With the comfort of your favorite t-shirt, jersey-knit cotton sheets often offer unbeatable softness that will make you want to stay in bed all day. Available in over a dozen colors and easy to care for, our pick from The Company Store is a cozy and versatile option for year-round comfort.
Our tester, Darcy, immediately fell in love with the touch of these sheets when they arrived in a box. She described them as soft and well-lived in, without the scratchy feeling some sheets have before they are washed. For Darcy, quality materials and sustainability are important, so she appreciated these sheets were crafted from 100% cotton with a Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex certification, ensuring they’re free from harmful substances.
Darcy noted the fitted sheet includes elastic around the entire perimeter, providing a snug fit on mattresses. It was easy to put on, and she could stretch the sheets over her bed and make them within five minutes. Jersey is known for its stretchy properties, so it’s ideal for those with larger beds. Darcy found it convenient that the set can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle and tumble-dried on a low-heat setting, especially as a mom of two who doesn’t have much time for high-maintenance bedding.
Darcy said this set is ideal for households seeking a quality sheet set that prioritizes comfort and style without being expensive. She found these sheets to be cozy yet practical, offering a comfortable bedding solution for all seasons.
Soft and cozy jersey knit sheets offer year-round comfort in various colors but may wrinkle easily and are pricier than alternatives.
You can’t beat this budget-friendly set of bamboo and polyester blend sheets that feel luxurious without the high-end price tag. Thanks to the lightweight and breathable fabric, the bed sheets work to thermal-regulate throughout the night preventing you from middle-of-the-night sweat attacks. We were also impressed with how well these sheets fought against wrinkles, even after being left in the dryer for a while.
Many verified reviewers rave about the soft texture but do know that the softness wears over time. Some noted loose stitches over many months of use, too.
Parents always want the best for their children — whether that’s the food they put on their plate or the sheets they lovingly place on their bed. Our top pick for baby and kid sheets is this organic cotton blend from MakeMake. They are free from chemicals and toxins, sustainably made, certified organic, and fair trade. You can feel the softness as soon you touch the sheets, and many reviewers say the cotton sustains for an extended period.
Since toddlers and kids can be super picky about, well, everything, the wide variety of patterns and colors has something for every mini attitude. The only downfall reviewers mentioned was piling fabric, so be on the lookout when you wash and dry.
Do you ever notice that you tend to sleep better at a hotel than at home? And you wake up feeling refreshed — not only by the killer views from your room, but the pure zen of your bed? Bring a little luxury home with a sheet set from Sobel Westex. Many top hotel brands get their sheets from Sobel Westex, but you can snag a set for less than $100. They are crafted with 100 percent Egyptian cotton, providing a softness that lasts even with several washes. We also appreciate the elasticity of the fitted sheet, which fits mattress depths up to 17 inches.
The drawbacks of these luxe sheets may be found in the color hues: while they look vibrant online, some reviewers shared they don’t meet expectations in person. Also, due to the materials, these sheets have been known to wrinkle more easily than others, so make sure to snag them out of the dryer ASAP.
We’ll get right to it: nearly $500 for sheets seems, well, crazy. But if you’re going to splurge on one set of sheets — let it be these. Made of certified organic hemp, the texture is similar to linen, making it soft and breathable. And if the environment is essential to you, you’ll appreciate the fact these sheets are made with one of the most sustainable fabrics on the planet. In practical terms, many reviewers love the thermoregulating nature that matches your body where it’s at, helping you to stay toasty warm on the coldest day, and cool on the hot summer nights. They are pricey — but provide a lot of value for your investment.
I recruited testers to try out a set of bed sheets, requesting them to sleep on them for at least one week and to wash them at least once. Testers were asked to assess the sheets' performance in terms of durability, comfort, breathability, ease of care, fit, and overall aesthetic. Testers varied in sleeping habits, from hot to cold sleepers, and resided in different climates, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation. After the testing period, I collected feedback on each sheet set's performance in the following categories:
Testers were asked to provide feedback if they found the sheets maintained their quality after multiple washes, with no signs of pilling or fraying along the edges, indicating long-lasting durability.
I asked testers to rate the softness and smooth texture of the sheets, how luxurious they felt against the skin, and how they impacted their sleep health.
I asked testers to rate if the sheets remained breathable, allowing for adequate airflow and temperature regulation, ensuring a cool and refreshing sleep experience even on warmer nights.
I asked testers to rate if the cost of the sheets felt like a quality investment that provided a worthwhile value to their sleeping habits.
Some like sleeping on their side, others prefer to catch some Z’s on their tummies, and many end up on their backs in the morning. Just like we all have preferred sleeping positions, we all look for something different in our bed sheets. You’ll need sheets to help regulate your body temperature if you run hot. If you have sensitive skin, you’ll need to be mindful of the quality and materials of your sheets so you don’t experience irritation.
We personally reviewed and tested each of these bed sheets, keeping the following considerations in mind:
It’s important to remember that thread count isn’t everything. And for many companies, it’s an outdated way of measuring the softness of sheets and bedding. How come? Manufacturers have adopted crafty ways to inflate thread count measurements, creating an unequal playing field. Sometimes, a 300-thread count can feel more luxurious and softer than a 1,000-thread count.
So, instead of looking at the thread count labeling, focus on the materials and the weave. Weave is either sateen or percale. Sateen has a more satin design, while percale is grid-like. Neither is better than the other; it’s up to you to figure out what you prefer. Materials will vary from 100% cotton to hemp and bamboo. Again, this is a personal preference, but I picked based on my and my testers’ experience and online reviews.
When shopping for bed sheets, you don’t want to lug them home or have them arrive on your doorstep only to discover they won’t fit your bed. It’s important to remember that not all queen-size sheets fit all queen mattresses. Some mattresses have an added topper, and some people may add a pad for more cushion. That’s why you should also know your mattress depth and size. When picking the top bed sheet brands, I gave extra points to those with higher depths to fit more mattress varieties.
Many people tend to sweat at night, which can cause them to wake up drenched and uncomfortable. When shopping for bed sheets and bedding, consider the temperature that gives you the best rest. For those who are “hot-blooded” — you’ll need breathable material, like cotton or bamboo. If you can’t seem to get warm, you’ll need a thicker blend, like flannel.
If you’ve shopped for sheets before, you know the price range varies dramatically — from $20 to thousands. My research found that price doesn’t always dictate the quality and some budget sheets were just as cozy as expensive ones. In addition to price, I also considered lifestyle. While some people will buy five sets of sheets for their house full of kiddos, others are keen to invest in one solid set of sheets that will last them for years.
The best way to understand a product's value is to hear from other people. While my reviewers and I personally tested each product, we are a small sample size. When deciding on our final selections, we scoured the internet for verified reviews to help guide our process.
You see it everywhere, but what is thread count exactly? Jenny Dreizen, modern-day etiquette expert and COO of Fresh Starts Registry, explains thread count is quite literally the number of threads woven into a square inch of fabric. “It is the number of vertical threads plus the number of horizontal threads, so if 200 threads are going across in a square inch of material and 200 are going up and down, the thread count would be 400,” she says. “This is important because usually softer, finer materials have a tighter fabric weave.”
When you’re paying a top-dollar nightly rate, you better believe you want the best sleep of your life. Luxury hotels prioritize and invest in the very best linens. Dreizen says there are three major elements 5-star hotel sheets possess:
Dreizen says when deciding on what to buy for your bed, always check thread count and material. A good quality sheet will have a balance of material and thread count: you want our sheets to be soft but not overly fragile. “When looking for a very high thread count sheet, they should be in materials like Supima cotton, linen, or Tencel,” she says. “Additionally, focusing on the stitching can be a way to note the quality of the sheet; double stitching and well-finished hems indicate good quality and a lasting linen.”
Dreizen recommends that hot sleepers avoid synthetic materials like polyester and nylon sheets, thread counts over 500 (remember this means a tight weave!), and sateen woven sheets unless the material is Tencel. Additionally, it should go without saying that warm sleepers should avoid flannel, thermal, or fleece sheets.
Dreizen says there is endless discourse on this but a solid wash every 1 to 2 weeks is a safe bet. “We do sleep, sweat, and maybe drool on our sheets every night, so refreshing them about every seven days is a nice goal to have in mind,” she notes.
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