Facebook Twitter Instagram
    SnoozeSnooze
    • Beds & Accessories
      • Mattresses
        • Guide & Quiz
        • Innerspring
        • Memory Foam
        • Hybrid
        • Bed In A Box
      • Frames
        • Guide & Quiz
        • Most Common
      • Bedding
        • Duvets
        • Comforters
        • Sheets
          • Guide & Quiz
      • Pillows & Pillowcases
        • Guide & Quiz
        • Head
        • Body
        • Pregnancy
        • Pillowcases
      • Blankets
        • Guide & Quiz
        • Weighted
        • Heated
        • Cooling
    • Sleep Psychology
    • Tech
    • Hygiene
    SnoozeSnooze
    Home » The Definitive Guide to Bed Sheet Materials

    The Definitive Guide to Bed Sheet Materials

    By Snooze StaffMarch 28, 2022Updated:December 22, 2022
    orange and grey folded sheets
    Share
    Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Reddit WhatsApp Email

    The material your sheets are made from can significantly impact how well you sleep. Certain materials feel cool and smooth against the skin, while others are warm and cozy. Find the one that’s right for you.

    Fabrics like cotton, percale, and flannel feel wonderful against bare skin, but some prefer bedding with a silky texture or a soft fleece finish. Here’s a rundown of the most common types of sheet materials to help you find what feels great against your skin — and keeps you comfortable all night long.

    Table of Contents
    1. Bed Sheet Materials Explained
    2. The Breakdown: High-Quality Cotton Sheets
    3. Flat Sheets Vs. Fitted Sheets.
    4. Softest Sheet Material

    Bed Sheet Materials Explained

    When buying bedsheets, there are many important factors: thread count, color, material, and style. However, the most crucial element of all might be material.

    Most of us have probably never even thought about the material our bedding is made from before purchasing. We choose a color, pattern, or design that complements the rest of our bedroom, and we’re done. However, selecting a suitable material can play a huge role in comfort and quality of sleep.

    With so many bedsheet materials available on the market, choosing one for your bedroom can be challenging.

    For example, as we sleep, we sweat. As a result, our bodies produce heat, and our bedding absorbs this. Depending on the material used to make your bedsheets, the amount of moisture they drink can vary greatly.

    Fortunately, choosing a suitable material for your bedsheets is a simple process. There are various materials that sheets can be made out of, like cotton or flannel, but not all types of materials are suitable for your bed.

    The material you choose can make a big difference in your sleep experience when it comes to bedsheets. There are many factors to consider, including durability, softness, breathability, and care instructions.

    The following is a list of some common bed sheet materials and everything you need to know to make an informed decision on whether they’re the right choice for you.

    white cotton bed sheets

    Cotton Sheets

    Cotton is one of the most popular materials for bedding, and for a good reason. It’s versatile, durable, breathable, and offers year-round comfort. Cotton sheets can be made in different styles with various weaves, including percale (a tighter weave that feels crisp), sateen (a softer, smoother feel), jersey knit (stretchy and casual), flannel (warm and cozy), and more. Cotton comes in a range of prices depending on the quality of the cotton fibers used.

    Cotton has its benefits, but it also has its flaws. No fabric is perfect! If you’re considering 100% cotton sheets, make sure you think about how much time you want to spend caring for your bedding. Cotton requires frequent washes to avoid wrinkling and shrinking over time.

    Cotton Sheets We Love

    California Design Den Luxury 100% Cotton Sheets
    $44.99
    California Design Den Luxury 100% Cotton Sheets
    Buy Now
    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
    01/31/2023 04:12 am GMT

    Flannel

    Flannel is a thick, fuzzy material with a tight weave that makes it ideal for chilly winter nights. Flannel sheets are soft, loose, and fuzzy; it’s made from either wool or cotton and typically brushed to create the signature “fuzziness.” This fabric is excellent for retaining warmth and making you feel cozy, but it may pill after multiple washes.

    Flannel sheets are warm and cozy when the weather gets cold, but they may be too much for hot summer nights unless you want to be warm year-round.

    Flannel Sheets We Love

    Egyptian

    Egyptian cotton is among the most popular types of cotton for bedding since it’s soft and durable. This variety of cotton is grown from heirloom seeds and is handpicked from small crops to ensure excellent quality.

    The finest cotton in the world, Egyptian cotton is handpicked to ensure that only the finest fibers are used. The extra-long fibers result in a fabric that is softer, finer, and far more durable. Compared to other cotton, Egyptian cotton creates sheets that have a longer lifespan and a luxurious feel. It is worth it to invest in Egyptian cotton sheets for all of their benefits. They are soft, strong, and with proper care can last up to 15 years or more.

    Egyptian cotton is considered one of the best cotton due to its extra-long fibers that result in a luxuriously soft feel but can cost significantly more than other cotton varieties.

    grey linen bed sheet

    Egyptian Cotton Sheets We Love

    Jersey

    Jersey is a type of fabric made from interlocking loops of yarn. It has been used to make clothing for hundreds of years, but it wasn’t until the 1800s that they explicitly developed jersey for use in bedding.
    In the early days of jersey, the fabric was made from wool, but technological advances have led to cotton and synthetic fibers as the preferred materials. At first, it was because cotton jersey was less expensive than wool, but then, as technology advanced, people realized that synthetic fibers make the fabric more durable.

    Jersey is a knit fabric that is light, flexible, and warm. It’s perfect for making sheets but is commonly used to make t-shirts and other clothing.

    Jersey Knit Sheets We Love

    Pima/Supima

    Simply put, Pima is a type of cotton with longer fibers than other types of cotton. These longer fibers make it softer and more durable, so many people like Pima sheets. Pima cotton is another variety of high-quality cotton known for its softness and durability. These sheets also tend to get softer with each wash.

    But, imagine this same cotton but with even longer fibers, making it stronger, softer, and more durable— and that’s Supima. In addition, Supima cotton is produced exclusively in the United States, so when you buy Supima sheets or clothing made from this material, you know that they are authentically U.S. grade Supima cotton because this brand has strict regulations over its production.

    Pima/Supima Sheets We Love

    The Breakdown: High-Quality Cotton Sheets

    For the best night’s sleep, you need a comfortable bed, the right pillow, and high-quality sheets. The type of sheets you choose can have a big impact on how well you sleep.

    Polyester

    Polyester sheets are an affordable option for those wanting a low-maintenance and durable sheet set. Made with synthetic fibers, polyester fabric is often labeled “microfiber,” which can be composed of a blend of materials or purely polyester.

    Polyester sheet sets are an excellent option for those on a budget, as they are typically quite affordable. Even if you choose a higher thread count, polyester sheets are generally less expensive than cotton.
    Polyester fabric is more durable and less prone to wrinkling, shrinking, or fading than cotton. So if you want your sheets to last for several years, polyester is an excellent choice for you.

    However, it’s important to note that polyester is not naturally breathable. This lack of breathability means it does not regulate temperature well and can cause sleepers to overheat. If you already tend to sleep hot, consider choosing bedding made from a material other than polyester.

    blue stacked folded bed sheets

    Polyester Sheets We Love

    Shilucheng King Size Bed Sheets Set Microfiber Polyester 1800 Thread Count Percale Super Soft and Comforterble 16 Inch Deep Pockets - 4 Piece (King, Dark Grey)
    $29.90
    Shilucheng King Size Bed Sheets Set Microfiber Polyester 1800 Thread Count Percale Super Soft and Comforterble 16 Inch Deep Pockets - 4 Piece (King, Dark Grey)
    Buy Now
    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
    01/31/2023 05:31 pm GMT

    Linen

    Linen is another popular and durable material that’s more expensive than cotton but softer than polyester. Linen is often favored by people seeking an eco-friendly option because it’s made from flax, a plant that requires less water than traditional cotton plants.

    With the growing trend of natural fiber products, linen sheets have come back in recent years. These sheets are soft, beautiful, and durable. In addition, the fibers are smooth, so they won’t irritate the skin like some other fabrics. Linen is also an excellent choice for allergies as it is hypoallergenic and antimicrobial.

    As durable as it is luxurious, genuine linen is a natural fabric that offers a variety of benefits. For example, linen helps regulate your body’s temperature, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer by wicking away moisture from your skin.

    Linen Sheets We Love

    Danjor Linens White Queen Size Bed Sheets Set
    $33.76
    Danjor Linens White Queen Size Bed Sheets Set
    Buy Now
    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
    01/31/2023 04:16 am GMT

    Microfiber

    The difference between microfiber sheets and cotton sheets is that they’re made out of synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, and rayon. Microfiber is measured by its density or each fiber’s thickness. The weave of a microfiber sheet affects its durability and quality.

    A microfiber sheet with a flat weave is the most durable, resistant to stains, and repels moisture. A waffle weave microfiber is highly absorbent and traps heat.

    The good thing about sleeping on microfiber sheets is that it’s soft and smooth yet affordable. You can’t go wrong with purchasing good-quality microfiber sheets with a flat weave for your child’s bed in case of accidents.

    Microfiber Sheets We Love

    Silk

    If you’re looking for the perfect luxury bedding to elevate your space and ensure a comfortable night of sleep, look no further than silk sheets.

    Not only are silk sheets soft and smooth, but they’re also durable and hypoallergenic. Silk sheets are ideal for anyone looking for exceptional temperature regulation.

    Silk sheets are a luxury bedding choice that offers more than just a soft, smooth feel. The lustrous look of silk sheets can elevate the style of any bedroom. And, you won’t wake up with dry skin or curly hair, thanks to the smoothness of this material. So, why not sleep on a silk sheet set if you want to sleep in luxury and comfort each night?

    white silk bed sheet

    Silk Sheets We Love

    Percale

    Percale is a plain-weave fabric made from combed and carded yarns, which results in lightweight soft sheets with smooth finishes and a crisp feel. Cotton percale sheets are cool and crisp to the touch, perfect for those who like smooth fabrics. These sheets usually have a thread count of at least 200 but can go as high as 800.

    Due to their structure and material, they are a top choice among buyers. There are some advantages of including percale in your sleeping routine. They’re durable. Percale has a tight weave that creates a strong composition that makes percale resistant to tearing and stretching.

    They’re breathable. The airy qualities of percale sheets allow them to stay cool while keeping you covered during the night. This quality makes them perfect for hot sleepers or those who live in warm climates. They’re affordable. Percale sheets are generally less expensive than other options due to their mass production and popularity.

    Percale Sheets We Like

    Mejoroom King Size Sheet Set - Extra Soft Luxury Brushed Microfiber 1800 Thread Count Percale Egyptian Sheets
    $18.99
    Mejoroom King Size Sheet Set - Extra Soft Luxury Brushed Microfiber 1800 Thread Count Percale Egyptian Sheets
    Buy Now
    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
    01/31/2023 04:22 am GMT

    Satin

    Cotton satin sheets have a silky feel and are strong and durable. This fabric has a slight sheen to it, which gives it a luxurious look. Cotton sateen comes in many different thread counts, so you can find the one that’s right for you.

    Satin sheets are perfect for use in any season. When the weather is warm, these sheets are cool against your skin. In cooler temperatures, they will warm up with you and your bedding.

    Satin bedding also offers tremendous aesthetic advantages with its shiny nature and classic elegance. The shine and texture of satin fabrics helps create a serene atmosphere conducive to relaxation while adding style to any bedroom décor. Satin has been used as a classic element in interior design for many years due to its sleek appearance and complementing other fabrics.

    Satin Sheets We Love

    Bamboo

    Made from bamboo grass that is pulped and then woven into sheets, bamboo fabric is known for its softness and sheen. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, the natural antibacterial properties of bamboo sheets could be just what you need. They’re also highly breathable and therefore ideal for hot sleepers. Bamboo sheets can be made silky smooth with a sateen weave or have a more textured feel with a percale weave.

    Bamboo sheets are often touted as being more sustainable than cotton because bamboo grows faster and requires less water to grow. But before you rush out to buy bamboo-based bedding, make sure it’s actually made from bamboo fibers. It may be called “bamboo bedding,” but there’s a good chance it’s actually made from rayon or viscose — fabrics created from bamboo pulp. While these are still soft and durable fabrics, they aren’t as sustainable as actual bamboo fiber sheets.

    white folded sheets on a bed

    Bamboo Sheets We Love

    Eco Friendly Wrinkle Free Sheets Machine Washable Hotel Bedding Silky Soft - White King
    $37.95
    Eco Friendly Wrinkle Free Sheets Machine Washable Hotel Bedding Silky Soft - White King
    Buy Now
    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
    01/31/2023 04:26 am GMT

    Tencel

    Tencel sheets are a sheet made from the wood pulp of certain plants. Sheets made from Tencel come with many potential benefits and a higher price tag than many categories of sheets, but they may not be suitable for everyone.

    Originally named lyocell, Tencel was trademarked by the Austrian company Lenzing in 1994. You can apply the name to several different types of fabric produced by Lenzing, including denim, lyocell, and modal.

    Tencel Sheets We Love

    Flat Sheets Vs. Fitted Sheets.

    Flat sheets are rectangular pieces of fabric that sit on your bed. They are also known as top sheets and are placed between the mattress and comforter, but they can also be used alone as a lightweight coverlet in warmer months. While you may tuck flat sheets under the bottom edges of your mattress, they do not have the stretch of a deep fitted sheet and therefore may not stay in place as securely.

    Like all bed linens, flat/top sheets are made from various materials, including cotton, linen, and microfiber, to name just a few. If you sleep hot, consider lighter options like cotton or microfiber that may help keep you cool at night. On the other hand, those who don’t mind snuggling under some extra layers during the winter months may prefer a heavier material like flannel or linen.

    Flat sheets offer many benefits that fitted sheets do not. Because they’re larger than fitted sheets and have no elastic, flat sheets can be used as a blanket on top of your bedding set.

    Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a flat sheet and a fitted sheet? Well, wonder no more because the difference is explained below.

    Any bedding set starts with a fitted sheet, also known as a bottom sheet. You can recognize it by its four corners that are specially designed to hug the edges of your mattress.

    Fitted sheets create an added layer of comfort and protection between you and your mattress. Fitted sheets have elastic corners that hug the perimeter of your mattress to stay in place, and they usually come in standard sizes such as twin, queen, or king.

    When you’re looking for a new fitted sheet, one of the first things to consider is the fabric composition of your sheet. From luxurious sateen sheet sets to airy linen sheets, there are various options available. In addition, each material has its benefits and drawbacks, meaning each type of fitted sheet will have its pros and cons.

    various folded sheets on a bed

    Softest Sheet Material

    You can have the best mattress and pillows on the market, but if you don’t have soft sheets that allow you to sleep comfortably, then you’re going to feel like you’ve been sleeping on a bed of nails every night.

    The softest sheets depend on the type of sleeper you are. Some people prefer super soft sheets to keep them fresh and cool during the summer, while others prefer cozy and warm sheets.

    If you are looking for the softest sheets out there, here are a few different types of sheets that you should keep in mind when shopping for your next set.

    Bamboo, jersey, silk, cotton, linen, and flannel are all very soft sheets!

    Snooze Staff

    KEEP READING

    Purple Sheets Review: Are They Worth Buying?

    Close up of male and female feet on a bed sticking out from under a sheet

    Best Microfiber Sheets

    king sized bed with blue bedding

    Best Deep Pocket King Sheets To Consider

    3d rendering modern luxury blue bedroom with marble decor

    Frette Sheets: What Are They and Are They Worth the Money?

    Add A Comment

    Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

    Get Pillow Talk Free

    Get the latest sleep health trends, products, and deals delivered to your inbox.

    Recent Articles
    • Wellness Expert Henry Penix on Sound Sleeping
    • The Best Crib Sheets to Consider Buying
    • Considering the Best Metal Bed Frames Available Now
    • The Best White Bed Frames to Inspire Decorative Style
    • The 6 Best Black Bed Frames to Check Out Now
    WHY SNOOZE?

    Snooze is the go-to resource for all things sleep. We research, evaluate, and review sleep-related products and provide you with the information you need to make the right choice for your lifestyle.

    Get Pillow Talk Free

    Get the latest sleep health trends, products, and deals delivered to your inboxs.

    Latest Articles
    • Wellness Expert Henry Penix on Sound Sleeping
    • The Best Crib Sheets to Consider Buying
    • Considering the Best Metal Bed Frames Available Now
    • The Best White Bed Frames to Inspire Decorative Style
    • The 6 Best Black Bed Frames to Check Out Now
    © 2023 Snooze. All rights reserved. Terms & Privacy | Submit A Pitch

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
    Cookie SettingsAccept All
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT