How do you shop for quality sheets?
- Read the fiber content first. 100% cotton is always an excellent go-to because it's soft and affordable.
- Thread count isn't everything.
- Know the difference between weaves.
- Don't assume it'll fit your mattress.
- Always check the return policy.
- Read the fiber content first. 100% cotton is always an excellent go-to because it's soft and affordable. ...
- Thread count isn't everything. ...
- Know the difference between weaves. ...
- Don't assume it'll fit your mattress. ...
- Always check the return policy.
What should you look for when shopping for sheets?
Here’s advice from our experts on what to look for when you shop for sheets. Along with thread count, you may see terms such as long-fiber, pima, Supima, and Egyptian cotton. (Supima is a brand trademarked by the Supima Association of America; it’s pima cotton grown in America.) Typically, long-fiber cottons are stronger and less likely to pill.
How do I choose the best sheets?
For the most savings on quality sheets, look for sales of marked-down individual sheets instead of sets. Mix and match fitted and flat sheets with pillowcases and shams. For mixing, choose white or a solid pastel for one of the sheets or for the pillowcases.
What should be included in a set of sheets?
Each sheet set should include top (flat) and bottom (fitted) sheets plus two pillowcases. You may need additional pillowcases if you use more than two pillows. Change and launder sheets and pillowcases once a week. Two mattress pads: one in the linen closet, one on the bed.
How do we test sheets?
Our team thoroughly tests the sheets by feeling the fabric and recording how closely the material drapes to the body. We assess whether sheets are silky or crisp, and if they run cool or trap heat. Sheet prices and ease of care are also taken into account. The picks list above includes what we consider to be the best sheets available on the market.
How do you determine good quality sheets?
A higher number of threads per inch usually means each yarn is finer, so more of them will fit in the square, creating a smooth yet strong weave. As we mention above, thread counts of 200 to 300 for percale, 300 to 600 for sateen, and 80 to 120 for linen should indicate a good-quality fabric.
What thread count is good quality for sheets?
200-600Looking for sheets with a reasonable thread count (200-600 for most styles) will typically produce the best results. Be sure to modify your expectations somewhat depending on the material used. Excessively high thread counts (600-800) likely won't change much beyond the price tag.
Is 1500 a good thread count for sheets?
Sheets with a thread count between 600-800 are considered very high quality. A 1500 thread count is through the roof.
What kind of sheets do 5 star hotels use?
Hotels opt for a percale weave over sateen as percale epitomizes the cool, crisp feeling typical of a luxury hotel suite. A percale weave is also naturally longer lasting as by definition, it's a tighter weave.
Is Egyptian cotton better?
Fabrics made of Egyptian Cotton are softer, finer and last longer than any other cotton so are worth putting the slight extra bit of money into. Since finer yarns mean a higher thread count, the weave of the fabric is significantly stronger and lasts a lot longer than regular cotton.
What thread count is hotel sheets?
Hotels favor sheets with a high thread count because they are softer, more breathable, and more resistant to pilling. Cotton percale sheets used in hotels typically have a thread count between 250 and 600, while cotton sateen sheets often have a thread count between 300 and 600.
What is the difference between cotton and Egyptian cotton sheets?
Egyptian cotton is stronger than regular cotton, therefore longer-lasting. It's partly thanks to the extra-long fibres that Egyptian cotton plants produce, making yarns tougher yet oh so soft.
What is a luxury thread count?
Luxury sheets have no limits on thread count or price. Generally, the more you pay, the better sheets you get. Most hotels use sheets with a thread count of 250 while high-end hotels use sheets with a 300 thread count. Some luxury hotels even use sheets of 600 or 800 thread counts, but it varies from hotel to hotel.
What is the best thread count for 100% cotton sheets?
Gopinath said a 250 to 300 thread count was optimal (there's wiggle room, though, as Maher said 200 was also good). Gopinath told us a 400 to 500 thread count for percale could reflect a denser sheet made of fine, good-quality yarns. Over 500 was “not necessary or likely,” she said.
Does thread count matter in sheets?
Generally, the higher the thread count, the softer the sheet, and the more likely it will wear well — or even soften — over time. Good sheets range anywhere from 200 to 800, although you'll occasionally see numbers over 1,000.
What thread count is best for sheets Egyptian cotton?
between 400 and 700A thread count between 400 and 700 is generally optimal for Egyptian cotton sheets. High-quality options with lower thread counts may also be comfortable and frequently cost less. Customers should pay close attention to sheets that list a thread count over the 600-800 range in order to make sure this count is accurate.
What is the difference between percale and sateen?
Percale is light, crisp, and durable, whereas sateen is silky, heavier, and wrinkle-resistant.
What is best thread count for cotton sheets?
A thread count between 300 to 500 is a solid range for high-quality bed sheets. Avoid thread count higher than this as it's likely the manufacturers manipulated the thread count using multi-ply yarns. Thread count can steer you towards nice quality sheets, but don't base your shopping decisions solely on thread count!
Is a 300 thread count good?
Sheets with thread counts of 300 to 400 are high-quality sheets. Consumer advocates warn against sheets claiming to have a higher thread count than 400.
Is 144 thread count good quality?
It is commonly understood that the higher the thread count, the finer the fabric. Textile industry standards consider cotton with a thread count of 150 to be normal quality, while good quality sheets have a count of at least 180. Percale is much higher quality, with thread counts of 200 or more.
Is 400 thread count Egyptian cotton good?
A thread count between 400 and 700 is generally optimal for Egyptian cotton sheets. High-quality options with lower thread counts may also be comfortable and frequently cost less. Customers should pay close attention to sheets that list a thread count over the 600-800 range in order to make sure this count is accurate.
What size sheets should I use for a college dorm?
These are the kinds typically found in a college dorm. For a double twin, go for 39 by 80 inch fitted sheet. You can get by with a flat sheet fitted for a standard twin bed. For a full sized bed, the standard size of a flat sheet is 81x96 inches. For a fitted sheet, go for 54x75 inches.
How deep should a pocket be for a sheet?
The pocket size of sheets varies. The pocket size you need depends on the height of your mattress. A mattress that is 7 to 12 inches high will need a 7 to 9 inch pocket depth. A mattress that is 13 to 17 inches high will require a pocket depth of 10 to 15 inches.
What is the best thread count for sheets?
Pick an appropriate thread count. The thread count of a sheet affects its softness. Many people believe a higher thread count means softer sheets. However, many manufacturer's exaggerate thread count, so this is not necessarily always the case. In general, a thread count of over 200 is recommended for comfort. Anything above 800 is probably unnecessary.
Can you wear linen sheets in a hot climate?
Go for a linen sheet if you live in a hot climate. If you live in a hot environment , you may want to go for linen sheets. Linen sheets tend to be highly breathable. They tend to reduce overall body heat, so they can be refreshing in a warm environment. The one downside to linen sheets is that they wrinkle easily.
What to look for when buying sheets?
Along with thread count, you may see terms such as long-fiber, pima, Supima, and Egyptian cotton. (Supima is a brand trademarked by the Supima Association of America; it’s pima cotton grown in America.)
When did Brooklinen start selling sheets?
Brooklinen was launched in 2014 by a husband-and-wife team. It sells its sheets directly to consumers through its website. Casper. Casper, the mattress-in-a-box mattress brand, introduced cotton sheets in 2015.
How to Buy Sheets
The first step to understanding some basics about sheet buying is to learn more about the different types of fabrics and weaves that are available. Once you know about your options for different types of materials for sheets, you can better make a choice about the best type of sheets to purchase for your home.
Best Types of Luxury Sheets
Sateen - This 100% cotton fabric is made with a satin weave that gives it a silky-smooth feel. Sateen for sheets is woven in a one-over, three-under pattern for a stronger, more lustrous fabric.
How to buy sheets for a mattress?
Mattress sizes can vary, especially in thickness or depth, and you want to make sure you're getting the right size for your bed. Write down your mattress dimensions, measuring from head to foot, side to side, and top to bottom (mattress thickness). That way you'll know exactly what you need.
What are sheets made of?
If you are allergic to dyes and chemicals, look for sheets made from organically grown, natural, undyed cotton fibers. Beyond the basic materials, your sheet experience can be totally customizable. You'll find a variety of performance sheets, designed to deliver a particular experience.
What is the thread count of muslin sheets?
Sheets with a thread count of 140-180 are muslin. Everything higher is percale. The most common percale sheets have thread counts of 180-200. Higher-quality sheets have a 250-300 thread count and feel silky to the touch. Sheets with a high thread count (300-400) are considered luxury quality.
How many sheets should I use for a pillowcase?
Two or three sheet sets in the correct size. Each sheet set should include top (flat) and bottom (fitted) sheets plus two pillowcases. You may need additional pillowcases if you use more than two pillows. Change and launder sheets and pillowcases once a week.
What is the best thread count for sheets?
If you're wondering what is a good thread count for sheets, look for a minimum thread count of 200 . When buying cotton-polyester blend sheets, choose a thread count of 220 or more. Expect to pay more for higher thread counts because it takes more finely spun threads to make them.
Do sheets go out of style?
Combined with pillows and top coverings, sheets refresh a bedroom for an easy makeover. Crisp white sheets never go out of style, but sheets in colors, prints, and patterns are easy to find in all sizes and price ranges.
What are the factors to consider when buying new sheets?
Important factors to consider when buying new sheets and pillowcases include the fabric, weave, ease of care, and cost. It’s also important to ensure the sheet set’s size and fitted sheet’s pocket depth are compatible ...
How tall do fitted sheets fit?
With a deep pocket, the sheets fit mattresses up to 15 inches tall.
What is the thread count of Brooklinen sheets?
They are woven using a classic percale weave and have a thread count of 270. Cotton is naturally breathable, and with an airy percale weave, it stays extra crisp. This lightweight feel and moisture-wicking performance make the Brooklinen Classic Percale Sheets a solid fit for hot sleepers.
How high do Saatva fitted sheets come in?
The pocket of the fitted sheet holds taut on mattresses that range from 11 to 16 inches in height. Saatva has earned a strong reputation in the mattress industry for its quality products and customer care.
What are percale sheets made of?
The Classic Percale Sheets are made with 100% long-staple cotton. They are woven using a classic percale weave and have a thread count of 270.
What is a cozy earth bamboo sheet?
Bamboo-derived fabrics are known for their soft feel and luxe look. The Bamboo Sheet Set from Cozy Earth delivers on both accounts. This 100% viscose from bamboo set has a sateen weave that enhances the material’s silky touch and elegant sheen. Though the price-point for Cozy Earth’s set is above average, its high-quality materials and construction ensure a premium product to match the cost.
What is a sheex sheet set?
SHEEX offers an array of sheet sets that cater to people with different sleep preferences. The Original Performance Sheet Set is a good option for sleepers who are looking for bedding that helps keep them cool at night.
Top-rated bed sheets of 2021
Based on guidance from the experts we consulted, here are some of bedsheets worth considering right now, from cozy flannel to cooling bamboo, as well as some specific recommendations from experts.
Affordable sheet set: LuxClub
More than 71,000 reviewers on Amazon have given this anti-pill set a 4.5-star average rating. Georgina Borneman-Street, the CEO and principal designer at Cobalt Blue 1802, told us it’s her favorite set of percale sheets. The bamboo viscose fabric is blended with microfiber and, according to the brand, is softer than jersey.
Sheets to keep you warm: Boll & Branch
Available in a range of colors and prints, this flannel bedding is popular among the experts we consulted for its softness and warmth. Not only is it 100-percent organic but its fabric isFair Trade Certified, GOTS Certified and Oeko-TEX certified. “These sheets are luxurious, impressively soft and have a great weighted feel to them,” said Karp.
Cooling sheet set: PeachSkinSheets
Designed for warm sleepers who sweat at night, these hypoallergenic sheets are known for temperature control abilities. Newhart told us that these are her personal favorites to sleep with.
Bamboo and splurge sheet set: Cozy Earth
This lightweight set of bamboo sheets isn’t just one of Oprah’s Favorite Things, it’s also recommended by multiple experts we consulted. Made of 100-percent viscose sourced in bamboo fabric, this set is chemical free instead of made from rayon, breathable, hypoallergenic and comes with a 30-day trial with free returns (shipping isn’t covered).
Percale sheet set: Brooklinen
Made with a 270 thread count weave, these breathable sheets are designed to offer a hotel sheets feel and are available in a range of 11 color-and-print options. Although Brooklinen recommends you line-dry these sheets, they can be put in a dryer on low, are made with 100-percent cotton and carry the OEKO TEX certification.
Sateen sheet set: Nordstrom
Available in four soothing colors, this set of machine-washable organic cotton, sateen sheets brings a buttery-smooth feel to your bedroom linens. They are 100 percent organic cotton, Global Organic Textile Standard certified, have a high thread count at 400 and are sateen for the weave.
1. Read the fiber content first
100% cotton is always an excellent go-to because it's soft and affordable. If you're looking for premium, Extra-Long Staple (ELS) cotton, like Egyptian or Pima, is even softer and more durable.
2. Thread count isn't everything
Manufacturing techniques can allow brands to make high thread counts without actually increasing quality. Our tests have shown that 300 to 500 is a sweet spot for softness and strength. You can find good 200-thread-count sheets, but they may not be as comfy, and anything over 500 isn't necessarily better.
3. Know the difference between weaves
Your primary options are percale or sateen. Percale is a basic, grid-like weave that feels light and crisp. Sateen in a satin weave and feels silky smooth. It's a matter of personal preference, though in our tests, consumers tend to favor sateen.
4. Don't assume it'll fit your mattress
Standard sizes, like queen or king, don't account for mattress depth. So if yours is tall or if you use a mattress topper, make sure to measure before you buy. You should also account for some shrinkage after laundering. Generally, fitted sheets that fit up to 15-inch mattresses have performed well in our fit tests.
5. Always check the return policy
It's not easy knowing whether you'll love sleeping on the sheets until you've tried them out. Some brands, especially those that have internet-only sales, allow you to make returns for any reason, even up to a few months after the purchase.
4 of the Best Sheets From CR's Tests
Our ratings include sheet sets from Amazon, Boll & Branch, Brooklinen, Casper, Frette, Matouk, L.L.Bean, Target, and Wamsutta. They range in price from $43 to $725 for a queen-size set—fitted sheet, flat sheet, and two pillowcases.
And 2 of the Worst
Casper Cool Supima CR’s take: Though Casper might have a top-performing bed in our mattress ratings, its sheets earned a very low Overall Score. These sheets won’t fit your mattress after less than a year’s worth of washing—somewhere between 15 to 20 washes, your sheets will cease to fit the mattress.
