If you’ve recently shopped for bed sheets, you might be overwhelmed thanks to the variety of options. You can choose among different materials, thread counts, weave and finishing. Don’t forget the multitude of prints and colors. This can be quite confusing! Aside from the material used, the most important consideration is probably the thread count. This is the number of threads used per square inch. In general, the higher the value, the softer the sheet. However, don’t assume that just because a particular brand has a lower thread count, it’s of low quality. That’s because the finishing and weave also play a role in how the sheets will feel against your skin. For example, organic sheets that are beautifully finished may feel more luxurious than a less well-finished product even if the latter has a higher thread count. Keeping these factors in mind, here are the pros and cons of different types of materials used to make sheets.
1 - Cotton
Cotton is the most common material used for making sheets. Depending on how much you are willing to spend, you can get everything from a basic, utilitarian sheet to a luxurious high thread-count product made from Egyptian cotton. There are many pros. Cotton naturally regulates temperature. This means you’ll stay cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s cold. The sheets will get softer with washing. They offer a wide variety of colors and patterns. They are also some of the most affordable options. It’s not all good though. They can wrinkle easily. Low quality sheets can tear or become almost transparent. You’ll also need to break them in.
2 - Flannel
A popular option for cold weather, flannel sheets are created from brushed fibers. Once quite expensive, with modern technology, flannel sheets are now quite affordable. They are both very warm, yet breathable. Flannel sheets are incredibly soft and get softer with time. They are easy to care for. They resist wrinkling and can be quite colorful.On the downside, pilling can occur over time. They may shrink slightly and they can bleed color when washed.
3 - Polyester Microfiber
Used either alone or as part of a blend, polyester is a man-made fiber often used for bedding.It is naturally water-repellent and avoids staining. These sheets can handle color saturation without fading or bleeding. This makes them the ideal choice for truly vibrant designs. They’re also hypoallergenic. On the downside, these sheets are susceptible to wrinkling. They are made from petroleum products. These sheets can be subject to static cling and will wear down more quickly than other materials.
4 - Silk
Some consider this to be the most luxurious type of sheets you can own. Once restricted to nobility, now even middle-class families can treat themselves to bedding made of this sumptuous material. Silk is a great insulator. Silk is even better than cotton in this area, and will keep you comfortable. Silk is naturally hypoallergenic. If you suffer from allergies, having a bedding that resists things like mold, mildew and dust mites can make for a better night’s sleep. It absorbs moisture, which helps keep you comfortable. Silk sheets are more expensive than other options. They are hard to take care of, since you won’t be able to toss them in the washing machine. Not everyone likes the way they feel, since they can be slippery.
5 - Bamboo
A relative newcomer, bamboo sheets are becoming more popular for a variety of reasons. In addition to being a comfortable bedding option, they are also made from a sustainable material. Bamboo sheets are almost as soft as silk. They are particularly suited to hot weather as they will allow heat to escape. Thanks to being naturally hypoallergenic and moisture-resistant, they will keep pests like dust-mites at bay. They tend to be more durable than other materials, so they can be a great value. Unfortunately, they can be more expensive than most other options. The quality varies greatly as well.