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Choosing sheets can be overwhelming if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for. For years, thread count has been the term that has been thrown around. The higher the thread count, the better quality the sheet. That isn’t always the case.
There are other aspects of sheets that will factor in along with your personal preference. Some people get hot, some people have sensitive skin, and some people are looking for the utmost softness over crispness. Whatever category you fall into, rest assured there is the right sheet set for you.
Thread count is something you might want to consider when purchasing a sheet set. Higher thread counts tend to be softer and don’t seem to pill up the way other sheets do. Lately, however, thread count only plays a minimal role in the process.
You may found a lower thread count sheet set that is soft enough for you and doesn’t pill. If at all possible, try and find a sample that you can feel to gauge if it’s the right thread count for you.
Fiber is really what is going to help you pick the right sheet set for you. This is what offers the durability, softness, and longevity of your sheet set. The longer the fiber, the more durable the material.
With that said, once you have found the right type of fiber, you’ll want to decide what type of material you want your sheet set to be made of. Many people prefer cotton because it can come in different textures and softness.
It is also a breathable material which is good for people who tend to get hot or sweat at night. You want your sheets to have good airflow to keep you comfortable.
There are also different types of cotton to choose from depending on what your needs and preferences are.
In some instances however, you may want to think about your options more thoroughly. You may want to rely on samples. If you’re looking for a soft sheet, thread count may not have to be factored in at all.Thread count is important but it shouldn’t be the defining factor of what type of sheet set you buy. It’s a measurement that is used to determine the amount of thread woven into each square inch of fabric and this will determine some of the softness and durability of the sheet.
Jersey sheets are some of the softest sheets on the market and they have a very low thread count. If you’re looking for a stiffer, more crisp sheet, then you may want to go with percale which is the cheapest on the market and only has a 180 thread count.
Egyptian cotton has some of the higher thread count out there, and it is also some of the most durable material. This is based on the fibers though, not the thread count. So higher doesn’t mean better, but it could still factor into the overall scheme of things.
Here we get to the important question. Sheets can range from $20-$500 depending on bed size, type, and material. For most of us, we want something that is going to be budget friendly but still gives us good quality.
We want luxury without the steep price tag. Obviously, something to consider with your sheet set is that you are going to get what you pay for. If you have extremely sensitive skin and need to make sure you are getting the right sheet set, then you may want to opt for the higher price.
The more expensive sheets are durable and may last longer than their cheaper counterparts. In the long run, paying the high price up front may be worth it.
If you’re still looking at the cheaper end, then there are some options that still give you the softness and durability that you want. If you’re a sleeper that gets hot at night, you may want to stick to a 100% cotton sheet set.
This will ensure breathability for your comfort and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. If you have no preference, then you can get an Egyptian-Polyester blend. These are soft and have strong Egyptian cotton fibers woven into them.
How fancy do you want to get with your sheets? Price factors in how your sheets are made. Solid colors are going to be cheaper, but if you find solids boring then you may want to spend the extra money on a sheet set with a pretty pattern on it, or your initials stitched around the edges.
Again, it comes down to preference.
There are several different types of cotton sheets on the market. In order to make the right decision your sheets, you will want to familiarize yourself with them.
Percale is a basic weave and probably the most common. It has a lower thread count of 180. These sheets tend to have a crisp more stiff feeling but still provide the breathability that you need. This is the material that you will find sheets made from in most stores.
Jersey sheets are made from T-shirt material and are soft and stretchy. They are excellent for the sleepers who get hot at night because they have good air circulation. This is also a softer material than Percale.
This is what it sounds like. It is cotton that is combed to remove the short fibers and keep the long ones. As stated before, the long fibers maintain the durability of the material. The combing of this cotton to remove the shorter fibers does give it an added softness though.
Supima is 45 percent stronger than the average cotton used for making sheets. It is lighter yet more durable, has great breathable qualities allowing you a comfortable sleep without feeling like your body is being suffocated, and is a type of pima cotton blend.
Flannel is soft brushed cotton and is also thick. Flannel is specifically designed for colder climates and months, so it is a set that you want for every season. If you tend to get hot no matter the season, then you may find flannel to be too stuffy for you. If you can’t stand the shock of a cold sheet on your skin in the winter time as you crawl into bed, then this is the sheet material you want.
Tencel, also known as lyocell, is a fabric that naturally repels water based on the type of fiber that is woven with. It checks off everything on the list. It is light, durable, has a moisture-wicking advantage, and is soft. It also has hypoallergenic properties. This especially important to consider if you have sensitive skin.
Bamboo sheets are relatively new to the market but add all the features that cotton sheets do. Bamboo is a strong fiber and these sheets are made to be softer than most sheets on the market.
They also wick moisture away keeping you from getting too hot. They are naturally thermal regulated so they can keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. They are also odor-resistant keeping fresh longer than cotton.
Bamboo sheets are made from a renewable source. Bamboo is fast-growing and is abundant, so purchasing bamboo sheets leaves a good imprint on the planet.
Egyptian Cotton is a cotton that is different than the cotton grown anywhere else in the world. This cotton has longer fibers and it can be woven into yarn. These types of fibers make for incredibly soft sheets that are durable and withstand many washes without pilling.
Sateen is a type of cotton sheet that has a satin weave. This gives a very soft texture but may not hold up as strongly as another type of cotton sheet. Also, satin is not ideal for someone that gets hot easily. If you’re looking for extreme softness and luxurious feel, then this may be the type of sheet to consider.
There are so many choices out there when it comes to choosing the right type of sheet set for you. That’s why it’s okay to be picky. Take your time in finding the right set for you because it’s out there.
Bamboo has a little bit of everything and 100% cotton is always a safe place to start. If you’re going to a brick and mortar store, ask if they have samples or if you are able to touch the sheets to check out their softness.
If you are buying online, pay less attention to the thread count and more attention to the type of fiber that is made with. From there, you can read about durability and other features.
Packaging should give you a type of checklist as far as the main features of the fabric. If it is hypoallergenic it will tell you. If it is Egyptian cotton and Polyester it will tell you. The thread count will be on there should you need it, but again that is something that doesn’t need to be considered if you don’t want it to.
If you want to have seasonal sheet sets, then be prepared to have a couple of different types on hand so that you are ready for the cold winter months and the hot summer ones.
If you’re looking for something that can last you all year round, then look for that. Don’t forget to wash your sheets at least once a week to maintain their freshness and help keep the overall structure of the fibers strong.
Resources:
https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/decorating/decorating-bedroom/best-bed-sheets
https://www.housebeautiful.com/home-remodeling/interior-designers/tips/a1342/how-to-choose-bed-linens/
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/thread-count-does-not-matter_n_6121180
