10 Best Bed Sheets 2022 – Reviews and Buying Guide

The right bed sheet set can help you to sleep soundly at night.

But things can get confusing when it comes to considering the important selection details regarding fitted sheets, flat sheets, deep-pocketed sheets, the thread count, the weave, breathability, washing worries, and getting the sheets to fit your mattress.

The best bed sheets to buy online in 2022 are from the THXSILK, Bampure, Thread Spread, Pinzon, Ruvanti, LBRO2M, Briarwood Home, Sleep Zone, and Mellanni brands because they offer an excellent amount of comfort and durability at an affordable price.

The rest of this article provides more detailed reviews for the best bed sheets from these brands, as well as an in-depth bed sheet buying guide for more guidance.

Top 10 Bed Sheet Reviews 2022

The bed sheet reviews below are listed by their primary quality (such as the best luxury/silk/bamboo sheet etc), and who should buy that sheet (allergy sufferers, hot sleepers, etc) to help you identify the right sheet set for you.

You can then click the red ‘check price now’ button to buy that exact sheet set.

1: Best Luxury Bed Sheets – THXSILK

If you’re looking for a high quality luxury bed sheet AND you have allergies – then this 22 momme, top grade mulberry silk bed sheet set is an outstanding choice.

Because not only does this 4 piece set shimmer with elegance the sheets’ hypoallergenic qualities can give you the relief you’re looking for if you have asthma or other allergies.

When you order, you’ll get 1 flat sheet, 1 fitted sheet, and 2 pillow shams.

Benefits

• Thread count of 600 for softness and breathability.

• Materials made to meet OEKO-TEX® 100 Certification Standards – which means that the materials used contain no harmful substances.

• Naturally hypoallergenic to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction.

• Can help you sleep comfortably in both warm and cold climates.

• Deep pocketed fitted sheet that can fit mattresses that are 16 inches deep.

• Anti-aging thanks to the inclusion of natural proteins and 18 essential amino acids.

Cons

• Care needs to be taken when washing.

Washing Guidelines

Silk needs extra care when washing.

I had a look at the washing guidelines for this bed sheet set and the manufacturer recommends that you should hand wash if possible.

Alternatively, you can machine wash your sheet set in lukewarm water (30°C), on a gentle cycle, and use a silk detergent.

Hang-drying out of direct sunlight is recommended, or tumble dry for a very short time on a cool setting.

You should iron your sheets on the inside when damp – using a cool setting to avoid damage.

Recommended For

• Allergy sufferers because of the naturally hypoallergenic and OEKO-TEX® certified material.

• Both hot and cool sleepers due to the temperature regulative properties of silk.

• Age conscious sleepers because of the inclusion of proteins and amino acids that the manufacturer claims are ‘anti-aging’.

Best Bed Sheets for Allergy Sufferers Looking for Luxury

Looking at the hypoallergenic qualities of this sleek looking silk set, I personally think that this is the ideal bed sheet set if you’re looking to combat asthma, eczema, and dust mite allergies – whilst turning your bed into an elegant centrepiece that luxuriously draws the eye.

So whether it’s for your own use – or as a seasonal or birthday gift – this is a high end sheet set that’s going to look amazing in any bedroom.

Click the button below to buy this mulberry silk bed sheet set right now.

2: Best Deep Pocket Silk Bed Sheets – THXSILK

Technically, the best deep pocket silk bed sheet set is the previous entry.

But if that’s a bit too pricey for you, then check out this 19 momme silk bed sheet set that’s also from THXSILK – but slightly more affordable.

This is a 100% mulberry silk sheet set that comes with a 16 inch deep pocket fitted sheet to accommodate thicker mattresses, plus a flat sheet and 2 pillow shams.

Mulberry silk is widely considered to be finest, strongest, and softest silk available – making these sheets from THXSILK feel cool and comfortable to sleep in.

Benefits

• Thread count of 400 for a good mix of breathability and softness.

• Naturally hypoallergenic to reduce the chance of any allergic reactions to the materials.

• Made to OEKO-TEX® 100 Certification Standards – which means that the materials used contain no harmful substances.

• Can help you sleep comfortably in a range of warm or cool climates.

Cons

• Still costly when compared to other material types because mulberry silk is very high quality.

• Care must be taken when washing not to damage the materials.

Washing Guidelines

With this being high quality silk, the manufacturer recommends that you hand wash and air dry your bedding set away from direct sunlight.

Alternatively, you may wash this bedding set in lukewarm water (30°C) on a gentle cycle using a special silk detergent, and tumble dry on a cool setting for a minimal amount of time to avoid damage to the silk material.

Recommended For

• Allergy sufferers who react to other material types because silk is naturally hypoallergenic.

• Age conscious sleepers because the manufacturer claims that the presence of amino acids gives the sheets ‘anti-aging’ qualities.

• Both hot and cold sleepers because the material can help regulate your temperature in warm and cool climates.

Best Deep Pocket Silk Sheets for Sensitive Skin

Much like the previous entry, these silk sheets are a great option if you have allergies, sensitive skin, or eczema because the material is soft and naturally hypoallergenic.

The fitted sheet is deep pocketed too – so it’ll be fine for a mattress depth of up to 16 inches.

Click the button below to buy this sheet set now.

3: Best Bamboo Bed Sheets – Bampure

This 100% organic bamboo sheets set is an excellent choice if you’re looking to sleep cool, have allergies, and want an incredibly soft bed sheet.

Because this bamboo material is naturally hypoallergenic, made to OEKO-TEX® 100 Certification Standards, highly breathable, and uses a sateen weave that results in a sheet that feels softer than Egyptian cotton.

This 4-piece set includes 2 pillow cases, 1 flat sheet, and a deep pocket fitted sheet that can fit a mattress that’s up to 16 inches thick.

These odour resistant sheets are designed to be wrinkle-free and become even softer with each wash.

Benefits

• Grown without pesticides.

• Hypoallergenic and antibacterial.

• Anti-static.

• Highly breathable.

• Washes wrinkle-free.

• More cooling than cotton.

• 400 thread count for softness and breathability.

• Double stitched and uses upgraded elastic to guard against ripping.

Cons

• Limited sizes available.

Recommended For

• Sleepers looking for an eco friendly bed sheet due to the organic materials, absence of pesticides, and OEKO-TEX® compliance.

• Hot sleepers because the highly breathable material can help you sleep cool.

• Sleepers with sensitive skin due to the very soft fabric.

Best for Hot Sleepers Looking for an Eco Friendly Sheet

I think this is the best bed sheet for hot sleepers who also have sensitive skin and are looking for an eco friendly sheet made from organic materials that hasn’t been doused in harmful chemicals.

The fitted sheet is deep pocketed too – so you’ll be fine with any mattress that has a total depth of 16 inches or less.

Also, the pillows use an envelope style to keep them neat and tidy looking – whilst the material is double-stitched to help guard against tearing.

Overall, I’d say that this is a very durable sheet that’s also very soft and highly breathable.

Click the button below to buy this sheet set now.

4: Best Egyptian Cotton Bed Sheets – Thread Spread

Egyptian cotton bed sheets are some of the softest that you’ll find and are very good at resisting pilling, tearing, wrinkling, and fading due to the extra long fibres that are preserved through the hand picking process.

This means that there are a lot of FAKE Egyptian cotton bed sheets knocking around out there. That’s why I spent a lot of time researching to make sure that the source that I’m recommending is legit.

And I’ve settled on Thread Spread as being the top seller of real, high quality Egyptian cotton bed sheets.

Because Thread Spread’s sheets are made from pure Egyptian cotton that’s woven using 100% combed compact yarn – the latest spinning technology that’s able to eliminate the short fiber surfaces and impurities.

The result is this 4 piece bed set that includes 2 standard size pillow cases, 1 flat sheet, and an extra deep pocket sheet with high quality elastic that can fit a mattress that’s up to 18 inches in thickness.

Benefits

• Extra deep pocketed fitted sheet to fit mattresses up to 18 inches thick.

• 1,000 thread count for superior softness.

• 100% pure Egyptian cotton for durability.

• Sateen weave for a silky finish.

• OEKO-TEX® certified.

• Highly breathable to reduce night sweats.

• Resistant to pilling.

• Uses fade-resistant dyes.

• Dyes are 100% eco friendly and chemical free.

Cons

• More expensive than lower quality cotton sheets.

Washing Guidelines

The manufacturer recommends that you wash your bed sheet set on a warm temperature and do not use bleach.

Make sure to tumble dry on a low temperature – never hot.

Recommended For

• Warm sleepers because the cotton is breathable to keep you cool and is absorbent to wick away moisture.

• If you have sensitive skin because the materials are organic and the sheets are very soft.

Best Bed Sheets For Hot Sleepers With Sensitive Skin

This is a good bed sheet for you if you tend to sleep hot and have sensitive skin.

Because the cotton is highly breathable and thus able to increase airflow to keep you cool, whilst the absorbent properties of Egyptian cotton can help to pull moisture away from your body to help you sleep dry and comfortable.

Click the button below to order your sheets now.

5: Best Cotton Bed Sheets – Pinzon

If you’re looking for an Egyptian cotton alternative then check out this heavyweight combed cotton sheet set from Pinzon.

Because this 100% cotton 4 piece provides you with 2 king size pillow cases, 1 flat sheet, and a fitted sheet that will fit mattresses up to 17 inches thick.

Weighing 190 grams, this combed cotton material is noted for its strength and ultra-smooth feel that can help you sleep warm in the cooler months.

Benefits

• Soft.

• Breathable.

• Machine washable and dryable.

• OEKO-TEX® compliant.

Cons

• Might sleep too hot for some during the warmer months.

Recommended For

• Cooler sleepers due to the heavyweight flannel feel.

Best For Cooler Sleepers

I think that the heavier weight and flannel feel makes this a good bed sheet set if you tend to sleep cool or require more warmth during the cooler months.

Click the button below to order this bed sheet set now.

6: Best Flannel Bed Sheets – Ruvanti

If staying warm at night is your primary concern then a flannel bed sheet can help due to their denser, looser knit.

And this 4 piece flannel bed sheet set is a great option for you because the material is 100% premium cotton and designed to be absorbent, lightweight and breathable – helping you stay warm but also dry too.

The fitted sheet is deep enough to accommodate a mattress that’s 16 inches thick.

Benefits

• 170 GSM – indicating a high quality flannel bed sheet.

• Soft, lightweight, and breathable to keep you cool and dry.

• Suitable for year-round use.

• Gets even softer with each wash.

• Made from high quality, absorbent cotton to wick away moisture as you sleep.

• Materials made to OEKO-TEX® standards meaning that no harmful substances are used.

• Deep pocketed to fit mattresses up to 16 inches thick.

• High quality elastic ensures that the fitted sheet will stay in place.

Cons

• Might sleep too warm for some.

Recommended For

• Cooler sleepers because the heavier-weighted flannel can help you to stay warm.

Best Deep Pocket Bed Sheet For Keeping Warm

The 170 gram premium quality flannel makes this a great bed sheet if you’re looking to stay warm in the cooler months.

But unlike many flannel sheets that tend to sleep too hot during the summer months, Ruvanti have designed their sheets to be used usable year-round – since the sheet is both lightweight and very breathable.

Click the button below to order your sheet set now.

7: Best Microfiber Bed Sheets – LBRO2M

Microfiber is a good choice of material if you’re looking for a bed sheet that’s durable, repels moisture, and resistant to stains.

And I’ve picked out this 6 piece set from LBRO2M because the fitted sheet is able to fit a mattress that’s 16 inches deep, and is made from strong elastic to help keep the sheet in place all night.

Plus the material is hypoallergenic, dust mite and bacteria resistant to help reduce the chance of skin irritation and allergic flare ups caused by common allergens.

Benefits

• Designed to resist fade.

• Very soft to avoid irritating your skin.

• 1,800 double thread count for greater softness and breathability.

• Strong and durable – designed to last for years.

• Ultra-tight knit to guard against rips.

• Designed to resist shrinking, wrinkling, and pilling.

• Made from allergen free materials to reduce the chance of respiratory irritation.

• Micro-ventilated weave repels sweat and stains.

Cons

• Requires extra care when washing.

Washing Guidelines

The manufacturer recommends that you wash this sheet set in cold water on a gentle cycle separately from your other washing in order to maintain the fabric’s softness for many years to come.

Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and ironing, since this will reduce the softness.

Air drying is recommended but you can use a dryer on a gentle cycle with low heat.

Recommended For

• A wide range of sleepers because of the affordability, durability, breathability, and softness of these microfiber sheets.

Best Top Rated Bed Sheets for a Wide Range of Sleepers

I think this is great all round bed sheet that has enough qualities to make it a great option for a wide range of sleepers.

Because it’s a lot cheaper than Egyptian cotton, can help you sleep comfortably in both warm and cool climates, is hypoallergenic, soft on your skin, and is resistant to shrinking, wrinkling, pilling, sweat, and stains.

This is a great value bed sheet – click the button below to order your sheet set now.

8: Best Jersey Bed Sheets – Briarwood Home

Jersey is a good material if you’re looking for a bed sheet that’s warmer than pure cotton but cooler than flannel.

And I’ve picked out this set of sheets from Briarwood Home because the fabric weight is 150 GSM for lasting durability over many washes.

Plus, the material is designed to be wrinkle, stain, and fade resistant.

Benefits

• Can be used year-round thanks to the breathable cotton.

• Machine washable and dryable.

• Slight stretch for increased durability.

• Materials made to OEKO-TEX® standards meaning that no harmful substances are used.

Cons

• Wash with care.

Washing Guidelines

The manufacturer recommends that you wash your sheets in cold water with similar colours and tumble dry on a low setting – although separate washing is best on the first use.

Recommended For

• A wide range of sleepers due to the balance between sleeping warm and cool.

Best Value Sheets For Temperate Sleeping

This is another good bed sheet that will suit a wide range of sleepers because the material sleeps warmer than cotton but cooler than flannel – whilst being very well priced too.

Click the button below to order your sheet set now.

9: Best Cooling Bed Sheets – Sleep Zone

Many of the sheets that I’ve covered so far have great cooling abilities.

But I wanted to find a sheet set that’s specifically designed to help hot sleepers stay cool at night and that’s exactly what these Temperature Regulation sheets from Sleep Zone do.

Because these sheets are crafted with NANOTEX Coolest Comfort Technology to wick away moisture 100% faster than cotton and help balance your body temperature to help you sleep comfortably in both summer and winter.

The fitted mattress is deep pocketed and is able to fit mattresses up to 16 inches in thickness.

Benefits

• Helps you stay cool in summer and warm in winter thanks to the premium microfiber that’s double brushed on both sides and designed to regulate your temperature year-round.

• Materials made to OEKO-TEX® standards meaning that no harmful substances are used.

• Well priced.

• Deep pocket fit for mattresses up to 16 inches thick.

Cons

• Microfiber sheets should be washed on a cold temperature on their own to avoid damage and attracting lint from other materials.

Recommended For

• Hot sleepers because the these sheets are specifically designed to help you sleep cool.

Best Cooling Bed Sheets For Hot Sleepers

In my view, these are probably the best priced cooling bed sheets for hot sleepers that you can find online.

Click the button below to buy your sheets now.

10: Best Hypoallergenic Bed Sheets – Mellanni

Many of the sheets on this list are hypoallergenic, but if none of those are to your liking then check out this very affordable alternative from Mellanni.

These sheets are 100% polyester which means that they will feel softer than cotton, will resist moisture, won’t wrinkle, and will help you to stay warm at night.

This 4-piece set comes in a wide range of sizes and a massive range of colours to suit your bedroom decor.

Benefits

• More durable than cotton.

• Fitted sheets are deep pocketed to fit mattresses up to 16 inches thick.

• Fade, stain, shrink, and wrinkle resistant.

Cons

• Take care when washing – machine wash on cold and tumble dry on low.

Recommended For

• Sleepers with allergies because the sheets are hypoallergenic.

Best Value Bed Sheets For Allergy Sufferers

If the other hypoallergenic bed sheets on this list are too pricey for you then this is an affordable alternative.

Click the button below to order your sheets now.

What is a Bed Sheet Set?

A bed sheet set typically contains one fitted sheet, one flat sheet, and one or two pillow cases.

And what’s the difference between a fitted sheet and a flat sheet?

Well, a fitted sheet contains an elastic band so that you can pull it over the top of your mattress to achieve a snug, secure fit.

In other words, a fitted sheet is the bottom sheet that you lie on at night and it provides a barrier between you and your mattress.

Whilst a flat sheet – also known as a top sheet – sits between you and your comforter as you sleep. This is to create a barrier so that you don’t need to wash your comforter as often.

Personally, I DON’T use a flat sheet.

This is because I use a duvet that has a machine washable cover; so there’s no need for me use a flat sheet – plus, I don’t really like how a top sheet feels on me.

But if you live in a warmer climate, then you might find that a flat sheet is ideal during the hotter months to help you sleep cool instead of a duvet.

How Do You Choose the Right Fitted Sheet?

The most important thing is to check that your fitted sheet is the right size for your mattress.

For example, you’ll need to consider not only the length and width of your mattress, but also the depth too – so that your fitted sheet stays in place as you move around during the night.

(How annoying is it when you wake up to find that your fitted sheet has sprung loose from the mattress?!).

For example, if you have a queen sized mattress you’ll need at least a queen size fitted sheet.

BUT, if you’re using a thicker mattress – or a mattress topper – you might need a deeper pocketed fitted sheet to accommodate the additional depth.

You’ll also want to select a material that’s kind to your skin – 100% Egyptian cotton or a cotton blend is a good option because they are typically more breathable than synthetic materials.

How Do You Choose the Right Flat Sheet?

You don’t need to be as precise when picking out a flat sheet.

For example, if you have a twin XL mattress, then you could go for queen or king flat sheet to create more of an overhang – useful if you move around a lot in the night and don’t like the feeling of the sheets being away from your body due to ‘bunching’.

(Check out the infographic in my mattress sizing guide for a visual representation on how different mattress sizes compare).

When Do You Need Deep Pocket Sheets?

As I just said, you’ll need a deep pocketed sheet if you’re using a thicker mattress or a mattress topper.

But what about exact measurements?

Well, if your mattress is more than 14 inches thick – including the topper – then you’ll probably require deep pocket sheets.

Deep pocket sheets usually have an elasticated pocket and are 15 – 22 inches deep; allowing them to fit snugly over thicker mattresses – including pillow top and Euro top mattresses – plus a mattress topper, to stay in place.

What Coloured Sheets Should You Get?

This is totally up to you.

But as a general rule, you’ll want your fitted and flat sheets to complement the rest of your bed linen.

If you’re a bit stuck for ideas, then it’s probably best to play it safe and go for classic cream or crisp white sheets because they tend to go well with a wide range of colour palettes.

How Can You Sleep at the Right Temperature?

If you’re using just a top sheet, then you may already live in a naturally warmer climate.

In which case, you’ll also want to select a material that’s both breathable and able to pull moisture away from your body – cotton being a good example.

Conversely, if you are in a cooler climate, you’ll want to select a sheet that’s going to help you sleep warmer – like polyester – or opt for a comforter or duvet cover.

Alternatively, if you have big differences in temperatures between the seasons, then you might want to consider getting separate summer and winter top sheets and factor your comforter or duvet in as you see fit.

What Are Bed Sheets Made Out Of?

One of the strongest indicators of how your bed sheets are going to feel and behave is what they are made out of.

Here’s a list of the most popular types of bed sheets, their component materials, and what you can expect from them.

Traditional Cotton

Cotton is a very popular textile for creating bed sheets.

You can expect good quality cotton sheets to be durable, soft, affordable, comfortable, absorbent, easy to clean and dry with a machine washer and dryer.

The only downside is that cotton tends to crinkle after cleaning but this can be solved through ironing.

There are a few different types of cotton sheets, and they are as follows.

Egyptian Cotton

Egyptian cotton is finer, softer, and more durable than regular cotton.

And because the cotton is hand picked in Egypt, the extra long fibres are preserved – which means that the finished sheets are more resistant to pilling (‘bobbling’), tearing, wrinkling, and fading.

This comes at a higher cost, but if you are after a highly breathable and soft bed sheet that’s going to last – Egyptian cotton is the best choice.

Pima Cotton

Pima cotton is grown in the south-west of the US and is a compromise between traditional and Egyptian cotton.

Pima cotton is softer, silkier, and more durable than traditional cotton but is typically a bit cheaper than Egyptian cotton sheets.

Upland Cotton

Upland cotton accounts for around 90% of the cotton products around the world and unless you see Egyptian or Pima (trademarked Supima®) on the label – you’re probably getting Upland cotton.

The fibres used in Upland cotton sheets are typically shorter than the aforementioned alternatives – making these sheets slightly less soft, flexible, durable, and more likely to pill.

However, you can expect to pay less for Upland cotton sheets and they are still pretty soft, comfortable, and breathable on the whole.

Linen

Linen sheets tend to be thicker and more durable than other sheets, yet have the seemingly polarising ability to help you sleep cool thanks to the breathable structure of this textile – making them great for temperature regulation if you live in a warmer climate.

Also, because the fibres are sourced from the flax plant and are hollow – they are very good at pulling away moisture from your skin to help you stay dry as you sleep.

These qualities – in conjunction with their resilience to bacteria and dirt – make them a good option if you suffer from allergies or eczema too.

The only downside to linen is that you need to take more care when washing it – make sure you check the label to see if your sheets require pre-washing.

As a general rule, it’s better to wash linen sheets in cold to lukewarm water, use a mild or all-natural detergent, and avoid bleach and fabric softeners.

It’s also best to hand dry your linen sheets and avoid dryers.

Microfiber

Created in a lab, sheets made from microfiber are very durable, repel water, are quite good at resisting stains, well priced, hold their colour, and are smooth to the point of feeling almost ‘slippery’.

Microfiber sheets can be a good choice if you have sensitive skin.

But when it comes to washing, do this on a cold temperature on their own – since washing them with other materials can attract lint. Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and dry on a low temperature too.

Flannel

Flannel bed sheets are often made out of cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers and are a good option if you live in a colder climate because they tend to sleep warm due to their dense, loose knit.

Wash your flannel sheets with a mild detergent at a warm temperature – without fabric softeners – and tumble dry on a low temperature.

Jersey

Jersey sheets are usually made from a combination of cotton and synthetic threads that produces a soft and slightly stretchy bed sheet – that’s typically warmer than pure cotton but cooler than flannel.

Jersey sheets are knitted rather than woven – meaning that they are made from a singular yarn.

It’s best to wash your Jersey sheets on cold to retain the colour and be very careful not to dry them above a medium heat using your tumble dryer – otherwise the material may stretch too much.

Polyester

Polyester sheets are synthetic, feel softer than cotton, resistant to moisture, don’t wrinkle, well priced, and tend to sleep hot due to the material’s lack of breathability – which is good if you’re in a cooler climate.

Polyester is also durable and very easy to clean – they often come out of the dryer looking smooth and ready to use.

Take care if you have sensitive skin though – since the man made products may cause irritation.

Bamboo

Bamboo sheets are typically both durable and silky soft; whilst also being great at temperature regulation and wicking away moisture – making them a good option for year-round use.

If you have allergies then bamboo sheets are naturally antimicrobial and antibacterial.

Wash your bamboo sheets on a cool setting and dry at a low temperature – avoid bleach and fabric softeners.

Modal

Modal sheets are made from the cellulose of beech trees and tends to be breathable like cotton but more absorbent – making it better for helping you sleep dry and cool.

If you’re tired of your cotton sheets shrinking in the wash then give Modal sheets a try because they are more resistant to shrinkage – just be sure to wash warm, tumble dry on low, and avoid bleach and fabric softeners.

Silk

Silk is a luxurious fabric that’s strong, durable, smooth, and shiny – wicking away moisture in the summer whilst helping you stay warm in the winter.

If you have asthma or allergies, look for 100% silk sheets to avail of its naturally hypoallergenic qualities – making them resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew to help you sleep sneeze free alongside your hypoallergenic mattress.

Tencel®

Tencel® sheets use complex technology to transform eucalyptus wood pulp into a bed sheet that is very soft, breathable, and great at wicking away moisture.

It’s important to note that due to the chemicals used in the manufacturing process, Tencel® isn’t hypoallergenic.

Bed Sheet Material Comparison Chart

That’s a fair bit of information to take in.

So here’s a handy table that allows you to compare the different types of bed sheets easily based on the qualities of their materials.

What Are the Different Kinds of Weaves?

The weave of a bedsheet indicates how the thread is stitched together and its resulting texture.

As such, the weave can affect how the sheet will feel, its lifespan, and even the price.

Here’s an overview of some of the different types of weaves.

Percale

Percale sheets are made from over-under weaving with an even amount of surface threads on each side.

The matte look and crisp feel gives way to a breathable and durable sheet that’s typically an excellent choice to help you sleep cool and can withstand frequent washing – but may tend to wrinkle.

Look for combed cotton and a thread count of no less than 200.

Sateen

Sateen sheets have more vertical threads than horizontal threads – resulting in a sheet that’s soft, silky, and has a slight sheen.

When compared to percale sheets, sateen sheets are less durable, more delicate, and will more than likely start to ‘pill’ (bobble) after multiple washes.

Sateen also tends to be heavier – making them a better choice than percale if you’re looking for a warmer, winter sheet that will feel soft and gentle against your skin.

Look for sateen sheets that have a thread count between 300 and 600.

Jersey Knit

Jersey is considered to be more of a knit than a weave.

A good Jersey knit will result in a sheet that’s breathable and feels soft.

Jersey sheets are typically inexpensive and not the most durable.

Flannel

Flannel sheets tend to have raised fibers that give them a softer, warmer feel – making them a good choice for the cooler months.

Flannel sheets are fairly cheap and not as durable as other weaves.

Jacquard

Jacquard woven fabrics usually have patterns that have been created using special looms – often making them more costly.

Twill

Twill fabrics are occasionally found in bed linens and tend to have a ‘rough’ feel thanks to the diagonal, ribbed pattern.

Twill tends to be durable and drapes well.

What is the Thread Count?

The thread count refers to the number of threads per square inch of fabric.

This can encompass the number of threads that run both vertically and horizontally. For example, if one square inch of material contains 125 strands both lengthwise and crosswise – the thread count is 250.

And whilst a higher thread count is often associated with a ‘softer’ sheet, it’s actually a more accurate measure of how breathable the sheet is.

As such, a higher thread count doesn’t always mean that the sheet is better quality than another one.

I had a look around online and after some research, it looks like the ‘ideal’ thread counts for some of the most popular bed sheet materials and weaves are as follows.

Is a Higher Thread Count Really Better?

Not always.

Manufacturers will often overstate the thread count to appear better than their competitors – as is usually the case when the thread count begins to exceed the 600 range.

However, it’s important to note that a manufacturer may count each individual strand of a multi-ply fabric to increase the quoted thread count.

Whilst others may take this a step further and use ‘filler yarn’ to ramp up the thread count artificially even more.

In some cases, a higher thread count may actually be a BAD thing.

Tight weaves, for example, can increase the thread count but make the fabric more susceptible to breaking down.

Similarly, some materials actually perform better at a lower to moderate thread count.

The bottom line here is to not jump to the conclusion that just because one sheet has a higher thread count than another that it’s the superior option.

Instead, focus on the type of the fabric used – this will give you a better indication as to how your sheet is going to feel and behave in terms of breathability and so on.

Don’t fall for the marketing hype!

What is the Yarn Count?

Yarn count is NOT the same thing as thread count.

Since the yarn count is a method of counting the density or thickness of a yarn.

Basically, the lower the yarn count – the thicker the yarn.

What About Weight?

Some sheets are measured by their weights instead of their thread counts.

This is often the case with silk, flannel, microfiber, and jersey materials.

Weights can be defined in terms of ‘grams per square meter’ (GSM), pounds, or ounces per yard.

This can make cross material comparison difficult, but to give you some idea of inter-material comparison quality, the following weight ranges can be used as a quality gauge for some of the most popular materials.

What is a Momme?

A momme (mm) is a Japanese form of weight measurement that expresses the weight (in pounds) of a piece of material sized 45 inches by 100 yards [1].

Pure silk sheets are measured in mommes, where a higher weight can indicate a higher quality silk – since the sheet is likely to be heavier, stronger, and more durable.

When it comes to selecting a silk bed sheet, look for a weight of 19 mommes or more.

What Are the Different Bed Sheet Sizes?

Much like mattress sizes, the different bed sheet sizes vary from country to country.

So if you have a US queen size bed, then you need to make sure that the bed sheets are US queen size too.

The absolute rule to avoid frustration is to measure your mattress/bed and then check the exact dimensions for the sheets that you are going to buy in the product description.

But if you live in the US, you can use this handy bed sheet sizing table to guide you.

Can Bed Sheets Shrink?

Yes.

100% cotton sheets can be expected to shrink between 3% and 5% after a few cycles of washing.

To minimise the effects of shrinkage, consider washing and drying your bed sheets at a lower temperature.

Some bed sheet manufacturers account for this potential shrinkage by cutting their sheets slightly larger.

What is Pilling?

Pilling in the world of textiles refers to an undesirable phenomenon where ‘bobbles’ appear on the surface of the material.

If you’ve ever noticed that your wool jumper has little fuzz-balls that you can pick off after a few rounds of washing – that’s an example of pilling.

Bed sheets that have pilled can feel ‘rough’ and uncomfortable.

How Often Should You Wash Your Bed Sheets?

Many people wash their bed sheets once every other week – but you might be better off doing this weekly [2].

Especially if you have allergies, are sensitive to dust, have a cut or infected wound, sweat a lot, have a pet that sleeps in your bed, if you eat in bed, you sleep naked, and/or go to bed without showering [3].

You’ll want to select a bed sheet set that’s made from materials that map to easy and convenient machine washing and tumble drying – such as cotton, linen, polyester, acrylic, and nylon.

This contrasts with materials such as silk, wool, and velvet that may need to be taken to a dry cleaners to be washed properly (think of the costs and how they could add up over the course of the year).

Do You Need to Iron Your Bed Sheets?

Personally, I don’t bother to iron my bed sheets.

But if your bed sheets are made from a material that typically crinkles heavily after machine washing and/or drying – then you might prefer to iron your bed linens.

Because aesthetics aside, a well-ironed top and bottom sheet is probably going to feel more comfortable than a sheet set that resembles screwed up tissue paper.

A little ‘hack’ for saving time when ironing your bed sheets is to fold them in half vertically and iron them that way. 🙂

Also, make sure to iron embroidered bed sheets on the reverse side.

Always check the label to see if the sheets can be ironed or not.

How Long Should a Bed Sheet Last?

Bed linens can be surprisingly durable if you look after them.

A high quality set of bed sheets can last between 6 and 8 years – although some sources that I consulted claimed that this can extend to between 10 and 12 years if you take excellent care of your sheets.

If durability is your primary concern, then consider the following tips to help extend the life of your bed sheets.

• Keep direct sunlight off your sheets – this can degrade the fibers.

• Wash/dry at a lower temperature to lessen the rate at which the fibers will become brittle.

• Avoid detergents with ‘brighteners’ which can damage cotton fibres.

Bed Sheet Buying Guide

With the above information, you should be able to find your ideal bed sheet.

However, it’s a lot of information to take in.

So I’ve produced this condensed bed sheet buying guide that walks you through the key considerations for selecting the right bed sheets for you.

1: Check the Mattress Dimensions

The first – and arguably the most important step – is to check that the sheets are going to fit your mattress.

In regards to the fitted sheet, you’ll want to go ahead and measure the length, width, and depth of your mattress and then compare this to the dimensions of the fitted sheet that you’re looking to buy.

You’ll need to do this because even if your mattress is a queen, and the fitted sheet is also marked as a queen, problems can arise when the bedding and mattress are made in different counties – since the numerical specifications for the naming conventions can differ.

Mattress depth is where you need to be really careful.

Because if your mattress – including the topper if you are using one – is greater than 14 inches, then you’ll probably have to get a deep pocket fitted sheet.

For the flat sheet, you can be less precise.

Check out the table I posted earlier that compares the US fitted and flat sheet dimensions, and how they relate to the US mattress dimensions for more specific guidance.

2: Select the Material

The next step is to select the right sort of material for your sleeping preferences.

Cotton is probably the most popular choice of material, with Egyptian cotton offering the height of quality.

Cotton and polyester blends are a cheaper option if you’d prefer less wrinkling after washing/drying and don’t mind the synthetic feel.

I’ve already posted a table and accompanying list that details the qualities of the main types of bed sheets in terms of their materials.

But to make things even easier, here’s a checklist of the general qualities that you should be looking for in a bed sheet and what they mean.

3: Find the Right Thread Count

The thread count is an indication of how breathable and soft the sheet is likely to be.

You should know that even though many manufacturers will claim or imply that their higher thread count relates to a ‘better’ quality sheet – this isn’t necessarily true.

Instead, you’re better off looking for the sweet spot for the type of material that you’ve selected.

I posted a table earlier that specifies the ideal thread count ranges for some of the most popular materials, but generally speaking, a thread count of 200 – 600 is the ideal range for many materials.

If you go lower than 200, you’ll probably find that the material isn’t soft or breathable enough – whilst going above 600 isn’t an automatic indicator of greater quality.

4: Select the Weave

The weave indicates how the thread has been stitched together and relates to the texture and feel of the sheet.

I’ve listed a range of different weaves in the last section but you’ll typically find that most sheets use percale or sateen.

Percale sheets generally have a light, crisp and breathable feel, whilst sateen feels softer but also heavier – making them better for sleeping warmer during the winter.

It’s down to personal preference here, but many favour sateen.

5: Look at the Return Policy and Sleep Trial

Found your ideal sheet?

Great!

The final step is to check the return policy and to see if a sleep trial is offered.

Because like many manufacturers who sell bed in a box mattresses online, some bed sheet sellers will allow you to make returns having slept on the sheets if they’re not comfy enough for you.

Be sure to check the fine print before buying.

Where’s the Best Place to Buy Bed Sheets Online?

If you haven’t yet found a suitable option from the above list of the best bed sheets to buy online in 2020 – click the button below to see more options.

Sources and References

[1] Celestial Silk – What is a Momme? Accessed 14/1/20.

[2], [3] Healthline – How Often Should You Change Your Sheets? Accessed 13/1/20.

Image Attribution and Licencing

Main image: ‘Modern Concrete Bedroom’ by PIRO4D–2707530 (Pixabay) – used with permission under the terms of Canva’s One Design Use License Agreement.

Dan

Dan is the founder and head content creator at Bedroom Style Reviews.

He has been working as a professional online product reviewer since 2015 and was inspired to start this website when he ended up sleeping on a memory foam mattress that was too soft and gave him backache.

Through in-depth research and analysis, Dan’s goal with this website is to help others avoid such pitfalls by creating the best online resource for helping you find your ideal mattress, bedding, and bedroom furniture.

Dan is a qualified NVQ Level 2 Fitness Instructor with 6 years’ experience helping clients improve their health through diet, exercise, and proper sleep hygiene.

He also holds several college and university-level qualifications in health sciences, psychology, mathematics, art, and digital media creation – which helps him to publish well researched and informative product reviews as well as articles on sleep, health, wellbeing, and home decor.

Dan also has direct personal experience with insomnia, anxiety, misophonia (hypersensitivity to sounds), and pain from both acute and long-standing sporting injuries – he enjoys writing insightful articles around these subjects to help fellow sufferers of such conditions.

Learn more about Dan here.