How to Choose the Best Bed Sheets

Gone are the days when all bed sheets were only white and made of cotton – which is still a beautiful choice! When choosing your bedding, you get to select from a variety of materials, fabrics and thread counts based on personal preference. In the process, you might have some questions about figuring out what kind of sheets are the best. Check out these tips from us at Pottery Barn for ideas on choosing the best bed sheets for your bedding needs.

 

Material

Cotton remains the go-to material for most bed sheets, but it’s far from the only option. Percale, sateen, flannel and bamboo are popular options, too. 

 

Cotton tends to be the default for sheets. It’s easy to wash and care for, durable and comfortable year-round and in various temperatures and climates. It’s also available in a very wide range of thread counts and colors. 

 

Percale sheets are a specific type of cotton sheet known for their tight weave. The tightly woven threads provide a smooth and satiny finish for a more elegant feeling. Sateen sheets are woven from combed or carded cotton threads to make them longer. The sateen is then treated in a special process. This is what gives it a smooth and luxurious feel. Flannel is a loosely knit fabric that’s made from wool, cotton or synthetic fiber. These sheets are soft and measured in weight rather than thread count. Flannel sheets are excellent for a cozy sleeping experience and are a great option in the winter. 

 

Finally, bamboo sheets have also become quite popular in recent years. The natural bamboo fibers are woven together into fabric that creates a cool, comfortable sheet and an eco-friendly bedding option. In terms of deciding which bamboo sheets are best, you’ll want to check the labels carefully. Note the material composition and weave for the sheets. Generally speaking, there are four types of bamboo fabrics available. By far the most popular and widely available is bamboo rayon. In terms of weave, you’ll generally have two choices: bamboo twill and bamboo weave. The one you select is most often a matter of personal choice. If the softness of your sheets is the most important factor to you, bamboo sateen is likely to be your best choice. If you prefer sturdiness and durability, choose bamboo twill.

 

Thread Count

The thread count of bed sheets is important. However, a high thread count doesn’t necessarily mean that the sheets are better. Thread count refers to the number of threads sewn into one square inch of fabric. The idea that a higher thread count means a higher quality sheet tends to be true, but only up to a certain point. 

 

So, what’s the best thread count for a sheet? A thread count between 300 and 500 is ideal for most people. It provides a good balance of softness and durability. Because a higher thread count means that there are more threads per square inch, an extremely high thread count makes for a denser, heavier sheet that’s not as breathable. Fiber, material and construction are just as important in choosing bed sheets as thread count.

 

Staying Cool

If you live in a warm climate or are a hot sleeper, you may be wondering what kind of sheets are the best at keeping you cool. Avoid sheets made with synthetic fibers. Instead, go for cotton or bamboo, which are significantly more breathable. Using a breathable quilt or lightweight coverlet will also go a long way in keeping you cool. If you still find yourself very hot at night, consider a moisture-wicking mattress, or even cooling gel pillows.

 

Laundering

Before making a final decision on a new set of sheets, check the washing instructions. If you’ve found a perfect set of satin sheets only to discover they need dry cleaning every week, the luxurious comfort may turn out to be not worth it. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for laundering to ensure optimal comfort and durability.

 

When you’ve finally found the ideal set of sheets, consider buying a few extra identical sets to have on hand for washing days or if something spills on your sheets and you want to change them right away. It’s also smart to have extra pillow cases on hand for freshness.

 

When you’re ready to refresh your bedding, these tips will help you make your bed as a comfortable as possible.