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Written by
Daniel Noyed
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The popularity of cotton sheets can be attributed to several factors. For one, this natural fiber offers great versatility as a bedding material. You can choose between different weaves such as crisp percale or silky-soft sateen, as well as a wide range of fabrics based on thread count, staple (or fiber length), and country of origin. Most cotton sheets are also highly breathable and won’t bottle in heat like polyester and other synthetics. Other perks include above-average durability, wide availability, and easy cleaning. Many cotton sheets are reasonably priced, as well, though the average set of high-quality cotton sheets will cost between $150 and $250.
In our best cotton sheets guide, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of this bedding material and delve into weaves, thread count, and other technical considerations. Directly below, you’ll find our top picks among cotton sheet sets sold today. These selections are based on reviews and ratings we’ve collected from verified owners, as well as our own product research and testing.
Available in three different sets, Brooklinen’s Classic Percale Sheets deliver a crisp hand-feel and above-average longevity.
Next up are the Brooklinen Classic Percale Sheets, which are produced from durable long staple cotton with a tight percale weave. These sheets and pillowcases feel very crisp and lightweight, and they are also quite breathable – especially during hotter times of the year.
Brooklinen allows you to customize your set based on the components you need. The budget-friendly Classic Starter Set includes a flat sheet and two pillowcases. The mid-range Classic Core Set adds a fitted sheet with a pocket depth of 15 inches; while this sheet won’t have enough reach for some high-profile mattresses, it will be compatible with most beds sold today. The largest set, known as the Classic Hardcore, includes these four items plus a duvet cover and two additional pillowcases. This collection is ideal for shoppers who want a full bedding makeover.
Brooklinen offers a wide range of solid colors and patterns to match your decor tastes. The items in these collections are also very affordable and convenient to clean; you can wash them in any household machine, then line dry them or place them in a dryer on a low tumble setting. Prices are quite reasonable compared to other high-quality percale sheet sets, and the customization option should appeal to shoppers with different budgets. Brooklinen issues full refunds for used and washed sheet sets returned within 365 nights of the original purchase.
Boll & Branch’s sustainable organic cotton offers exceptional quality and durability, with a silky-soft feel.
The sheets and pillowcases in the Boll & Branch Classic Hemmed Sheet Set collection are constructed from organic cotton that has been certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). This certification indicates the cotton has been sustainably grown, harvested, and sourced. The GOTS is one of the world’s foremost certifying organizations for organic textiles and fabrics.
These items provide a silky-soft feel thanks to their sateen weave, while a 300 thread count ensures the sheets won’t feel too heavy or excessively warm. A matte finish also gives the items in this set an attractive percale look, which some prefer over sateen’s signature sheen. Boll & Branch offers nine solid color options for the set, as well as an eye-catching floral print that costs a bit extra.
The fitted sheet in any Classic Hemmed Sheet Set of twin XL or larger has a pocket depth of 17 inches, making it compatible with most mattresses sold today. The twin size fitted sheet measures 15 inches deep. The collection is also available in seven different sizes, including a split king for couples that share an adjustable base.
Compared to other luxury sateen sets, this collection is reasonably priced. Boll & Branch also offers free shipping, as well as a no-risk 30-night sleep trial. If you’re unsatisfied with the sheets within 30 nights of delivery, Boll & Branch will issue a full refund and cover all return costs.
The Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheets have a crisp, breathable feel and are garment-washed for added softness.
The Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set is composed of sheets and pillowcases made from smooth percale. The cotton is garment-washed during production to give the material an exceptionally soft hand-feel, but the percale still retains the crispness and lightweight structure that makes the fabric very breathable and well-suited to warmer weather.
All Parachute bedding sets are manufactured at a family-owned factory in Portugal. The company has earned the OEKO-TEX 100 certification, indicating their products do not contain harmful chemicals or synthetic materials. The Brushed Cotton Sheet Set is limited to four sizes – full, queen, king, and California king – and is available in four color options. The fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 16 inches and will most likely be compatible with your current mattress. The items in this set can all be washed and dried in a household machine, so they are also convenient and cheap to clean.
The set has a mid-level price-point compared to other percale sheet collections. You can opt to exclude the top sheet if you only need a fitted sheet and pillowcases, which significantly drops the price. Parachute also accepts returns on used and laundered sheets within 60 nights of delivery.
Saatva’s long-staple cotton construction ensures very good longevity, backed by GOTS and Fair Trade certifications.
The Saatva Lofton Organic Sheet Set is a hiqh-quality set of sheets composed of GOTS-certified organic cotton. Saatva’s manufacturing facility has also received Fair Trade certification based on who they hire to work in their factories and how they are compensated.
The sheets and pillowcases in this collection are composed of long-staple cotton with a buttery-smooth sateen weave and a 300 thread count. Staple refers to the length of the cotton fibers. By definition, long-staple fibers measure 1.25 inches long and offer better durability than short staple fibers, which measure 1.125 inches long. As a result, the Lofton Organic Sheet Set components should hold up very well over time with proper use and care.
The fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 16 inches. According to Saatva, it is optimal for mattresses that measure between 11 and 16 inches thick; this range comprises the bulk of models sold today. Although color options are somewhat limited, you can choose from nine different sizes. These include a split king for two individual mattresses on an adjustable base, and queen and king upper-flex sizes for single, partially split mattresses that can be elevated or lowered at the head of the bed.
The price-point of this set is very reasonable compared to other organic cotton collections. Saatva also offers a 45-night sleep trial and provides full refunds for all returns, though the company asks customers to wash each component before returning.
The Casper Cool Supima sheets are made from crisp and breathable cotton with a high-level thread count.
Pima is a variety of extra-long staple cotton, or ELS. By definition, ELS fibers measure 1.375 inches or longer – up to 2 inches long, in some cases. Pima cotton is exceptionally durable and holds up well over time, and it offers consistent cooling and moisture absorption. We’ve selected the Casper Cool Supima collection, a highly breathable set of sheets composed of Pima cotton. Supima is a U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting and advocating for the widespread use of American Pima cotton; traditionally, Pima cotton originates from Peru. The cotton used for this collection is grown in California.
The Casper Cool Supima set is produced with a crisp percale weave that accentuates the fabric’s natural breathability. The collection has earned an OEKO-TEX 100 certification to indicate the sheets and pillowcases are chemical-free and safe for anyone to use. Casper currently offers one two-tone white and grey color scheme for the set, as well as six size options. If you own a high-profile mattress, then this set may not be deep enough, but it will be compatible with any bed measuring up to 14 inches in height.
The Casper Cool Supima set is a great option for shoppers with lower budgets. Given the high-quality cotton, the collection has a very reasonable sticker price. Casper also offers a 100-night sleep trial with full refunds on all returns, as well as a one-year warranty that covers the set against certain types of wear and tear. This level of coverage is quite rare when it comes to sheet sets.
Pom Pom at Home’s sheets are exceptionally crisp and airy, with great longevity thanks to high-quality materials and construction.
Egyptian cotton is renowned for a breathable, lightweight construction that makes the material ideal for warm temperatures. However, the price-point of pure Egyptian cotton can be a major barrier for some shoppers; a standard four-piece set can easily cost more than $400 in a queen size. Egyptian cotton blends tend to be more affordable. The Pom Pom at Home Cotton Percale Sheet Set, which offers the luxurious feel and breathability of Egyptian cotton at an accessible sticker price.
Pom Pom at Home doesn’t sacrifice quality in order to bring down the cost of this set. Each component is constructed from Egyptian cotton percale that is quite durable and should hold up well over time, even after repeated washes. The thread count is 300, which is the sweet spot for both Egyptian cotton and percale. The set can be washed and dried in any household machine, so you don’t need to worry about expensive dry cleaning or time-consuming hand washing.
The set does have some limitations, including one color option. You can choose from four different sizes ranging from twin to California king, but the fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 15 inches and may not be compatible with your mattress’s height. However, we highly recommend this set to anyone whose mattress and decor preferences meet these criteria.
In addition to its reasonable pricing, this set qualifies for free shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Pom Pom at Home allows you to return unlaundered sheets and pillowcases in their original packaging within 14 nights of delivery. Exchanges are also available if you’d like to trade this collection for another one of the brand’s sheet sets.
Home Resort’s Wrinkleless Plus sheets are specially treated to resist wrinkling, while also providing a comfortable balance of softness and breathability.
The Home Resort Wrinkleless Plus Cotton Sheet Set – is another great example of a high-quality collection at an affordable price-point. The items in this set are made from soft cotton sateen with a mid-range thread count of 400, ensuring decent longevity without too much weight. Home Resort treats the cotton with Coolest Comfort additives to increase the material’s breathability and moisture absorption. An additional anti-wrinkling treatment helps the sheets remain smooth, which is a common issue associated with sateen.
You can choose from grey or white color schemes as well as full, queen, or king sizes, so the set’s options are a bit limited. The fitted sheet’s pocket depth measures 15 inches, as well. It will be compatible with most mattresses, but you may need a deeper set if you own an exceptionally tall model. The good news is that every component can be washed and dried in a household machine.
The sticker price will be a major draw for some shoppers, as the collection is much more affordable than the average cotton sheet set, and the quality of materials and construction is still quite high. Shipping is also free to all 50 states, and Home Resort accepts returns on unused and unlaundered items within 30 days of delivery.
Aanya Linen’s sheets are made with a smooth sateen weave and a wrinkle-resistant finish in a wide range of color and pocket options.
The value of sheets is based not only on price-point, but also durability and performance. Any sheet set can carry a low sticker price, but a high-value collection will hold up well and remain comfortable for years. The Aanya Linen Solid 100 Cotton Sheet Set exemplifies these qualities well. The sheets and pillowcases in this collection are made from high-quality cotton with a very soft sateen weave. This set is ideal for people who enjoy bedding that drapes closely to the body.
Versatility is a major strength of this collection. You can choose from 40 different solid color options ranging from neutral hues and earth tones to vibrant, eye-catching shades. Additionally, Aanya Linen provides six pocket depth options: 8, 11, 15, 18, 21, and 25 inches. Regardless of how thick your mattress is, one or more of these depths will be perfectly compatible with it. Collections made from 400 TC cotton cost slightly more than those featuring 300 TC cotton, but each Solid 100 Cotton Sheet Set is priced relatively affordably in a queen size.
Aanya Linen also offers a lifetime warranty on these sheet sets. If any of the components rip, fray, or pill, the company will repair or replace them at no extra cost to you. Comparatively, sheet sets from other brands rarely come with a warranty that extends beyond one year of coverage.
1771 Living’s twill sheets are exceptionally durable and breathable, with a comfortably crisp feel that softens over time.
Longevity is a concern for most sheet shoppers. If you pay hundreds of dollars for sheets or pillowcases, you should do so knowing these items will last for years with proper care and use. We’ve selected the 1771 Living Essential Cotton Sheet Set in part for its strong degree of durability. This set’s components are derived from long-staple cotton in a twill weave. Twill tends to last longer than percale and sateen due to its strong diagonal weave. Best of all, this set is much more affordable than other collections made from similarly durable materials.
Twill can sometimes be rough and coarse, but the Essential Cotton Sheet Set boasts a smooth, crisp hand-feel that is very similar to percale. This ensures breathability as well as overall strength. The only major drawback to this collection is the fitted sheet’s pocket depth of 14 inches. This component will be deep enough for most mattresses sold today, but some owners of high-profile beds will need a sheet with a bit more reach around the corners.
1771 Living offers a 60-night trial that includes a full refund for all bedding returns, even if you’ve used and laundered some or all of the set’s components. Shipping and returns are free of charge within the contiguous U.S., as well.
Sleep & Beyond’s Organic Sheets are durable, breathable, and lightweight and come shipped in biodegradable packaging.
The sheets and pillowcases in the Sleep & Beyond Organic Sheet Set are composed of sustainably-harvested, GOTS-certified organic cotton. Although these items feature a sateen weave with a drapey feel, the material is quite breathable and shouldn’t feel too warm – even when the temperatures are high.
The thread count ranges from 300 to 400, depending on which size you select. This is a good range for sateen as the sheets are reasonably durable without feeling too weighty. You can choose from a total of eight sizes, including split king and California king options if you and your partner share an adjustable bed base. With a pocket depth of 18 inches, the fitted sheet should be compatible with most mattresses sold today, including many high-profile and pillow-top models.
Each item can be machine-washed and dried. In addition to earning a GOTS certification, Sleep & Beyond ships all bedding in reusable and biodegradable packaging in order to lower the company’s footprint. Standard ground delivery is free in the contiguous U.S. for orders of $249 or more, so adding a couple of extra items to your Organic Sheet Set may qualify you for complimentary shipping.
New sheets might seem like a fairly straightforward purchase, but considering how often you use them, there are several factors you should consider. Take cotton sheets. In addition to the color and size you choose, you should also look at technical aspects of the fabric such as weave, thread count, staple length, and the fitted sheet’s pocket depth.
In our cotton sheets buying guide, we’ll discuss these and other important considerations to take into account as a first-time buyer. We’ll also look at common cotton types and answer some common questions about cotton bedding items.
There are a few basic considerations when choosing sheets of any material, as well as cotton-specific factors. As you browse sheet sets from different brands and models, watch out for misleading or inaccurate descriptions regarding thread count, quality, country of origin, and whether or not the fabric is organic. Some luxury bedding sets live up to their names and deliver great performance, while others are merely overpriced.
Weave and Knit
The way cotton yarns are woven together can impact durability, breathability, and overall feel, as well as price-point. Percale, which is lightweight and crisp, and sateen, which is smooth and silky-soft, are the two most common weave types. For sheets, jersey is the most common knit. Unlike weaves, which involve several criss-crossing threads, knits consist of single interlaced threads.
Staple
Staple refers to the length of cotton fibers used to produce yarn. Short staple cotton, which measures 1.125 inches or shorter, is susceptible to pilling and other forms of wear and tear after a few years of use. Long-staple fibers measure 1.25 inches long, while extra-long staple (ELS) fibers typically measure up to 2 inches long. These staples are much more durable.
Feel
Each weave is associated with a different feel. For example, percale has a crisp, lightweight structure that makes it breathable and ideal for warmer weather, while sateen has a silkier feel and drapes closer to the body. Some cotton sheets are also treated using techniques such as garment-washing to provide extra softness.
Fit
Before choosing a sheet set, make sure to measure the height of your mattress. Every fitted sheet is designed for mattresses up to a certain thickness; this measurement is known as the pocket depth, or sometimes just depth. Cotton tends to shrink a bit in the wash, so we recommend leaving a few extra inches of leeway between your bed’s profile and the listed pocket depth measurement.
Price
The price of a cotton sheet set may fall below $50 or exceed $500, but based on our research, the average price range for a high-quality cotton set is $150 to $250. Staple can drive up the price-point as can the type of cotton used, since some varieties – such as Egyptian and Pima – are costlier to produce.
Thread Count
Thread count, TC for short, refers to the number of individual threads found in 1 square inch of fabric. These include lengthwise warp threads and crosswise weft threads. Thread count can affect both durability and feel, so many bedding manufacturers will list this detail with other product specs. That said, thread count is a minor consideration compared to other factors. We’ll discuss thread count in-depth later in this guide. Thread count only applies to weaves, not knits.
Design, Color and Pattern
The look of your sheets might seem like a superficial afterthought next to performance and feel, but color and pattern can brighten up your bedroom and complement your existing decor. Keep in mind some brands charge more for eye-catching patterns and vibrant colors than they do for more neutral shades.
Breathability
Cotton offers natural breathability and moisture absorption to help keep you cool at night. How breathable your sheets feel is specifically tied to the staple of the cotton and the weave type. Generally speaking, percale is more breathable than sateen because the former is lighter and crisper, whereas the former drapes closely to the body.
Durability
With proper use and care, the best cotton bed sheets will last anywhere from five to 10 years. Staple and cotton type play important roles with bedding longevity. Over time, you may notice small bumps on the fabric surface. This issue, known as pilling, can occur quickly with less durable types of cotton.
Ease of Care
With few exceptions, cotton sheets can be washed and dried in any household machine. You won’t need to spend time hand washing the bedding or pay dry cleaning expenses to keep your sheets and pillowcases clean. However, you should avoid washing your cotton sheets too frequently, otherwise they may pill and/or deteriorate prematurely.
When selecting new bed sheets, you can choose from a wide range of cotton types. Distinctions between different types include the staple of the cotton, where it is sourced, how it is grown and cultivated, and which weave or knit is used. Some of the most common cotton classifications include the following:
Types of Cotton
Weaves
A natural fiber, cotton offers breathability and moisture absorption that helps it stand out from polyester and other synthetics. Cotton sheets are also widely available, and shoppers can choose from many different types and varieties. However, these sheets can be somewhat expensive and they also suffer from certain structural shortcomings. Pros and cons of cotton sheets are listed below.
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Cotton offers several characteristics that give it universal appeal as a bedding material. If you prefer your sheets crisp and lightweight, then you’ll probably feel quite comfortable with a cotton percale set. Alternatively, sateen sheets are more suitable if you like a soft, draping feel. Hot sleepers are also well-suited to cotton sheets due to the material’s natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties.
If you need more warmth and insulation while you’re sleeping, consider cotton flannel sheets. Flannel is derived from cotton percale or twill that is “napped,” or drawn out on both sides to create a plusher texture. Sheets made from flannel offer the breathability of cotton, but they also provide a warmer, cozier feel when the temperatures are low. For maximum insulation, wool flannel is a bit warmer than cotton.
If you enjoy the feel of cotton but would rather not spend $150 or more for a sheet set, then a polyester or rayon set might be within your budget. These synthetic fabrics are quite soft. Additionally, rayon is fairly breathable, especially varieties that integrate plant-based materials such as rayon from bamboo.
The ideal thread count for cotton sheets varies by weave and type, but 200 is a good benchmark. As mentioned above, thread count refers to the total number of threads found in a square-inch section of fabric.
Low thread counts may indicate cotton of lesser quality, but a higher thread count does not necessarily mean the material is superior. In fact, excessive thread counts can mean the fabric feels bulky and traps in body heat. A high thread count can also indicate misleading information from the manufacturer. For example, manufacturers often use “two-ply” threads consisting of two intertwined strands. Some brands will include both plies when measuring thread count, which essentially doubles the number without substantially improving the quality of the fabric.
For these reasons, each weave and cotton type has an ideal thread count range. These ranges vary due in part to how the fabric is constructed. Percale has a tighter weave that consists of fewer threads, so its ideal thread count range will be lower than that of sateen, which has a looser weave. Ranges for different cotton weaves and types are listed below:
Regarding cotton jersey, this material is a knit, not a weave. Thread count is not an accurate representation of its quality. Like other knits, jersey is evaluated in weight instead. An ideal weight for jersey is 5 to 10 ounces per yard, depending on whether the material is single- or double-layered.
The average set of high-quality cotton sheets costs between $150 and $250. You’ll pay more for certain materials, such as pure Pima or Egyptian cotton. Organic cotton also tends to carry a higher sticker price than regular upland cotton.
The average cotton sheet will last at least three to five years – possibly longer if you wash them infrequently – but the expected lifespan of a cotton set depends on the material, weave, and staple. Pilling, fraying, and ripping are common wear and tear issues you’ll encounter as the sheets age.
Most cotton sheets can be laundered at home using a conventional washing machine and dryer. Always refer to specific care instructions on the product tag for recommended water temperature, detergent, and dryer settings. We suggest washing the sheets somewhat infrequently to preserve their shape and structure. You may want to purchase more than one set in order to necessitate fewer laundry cycles.
Organic cotton sheets are a good investment if you value breathability and durability from your bedding. You should also consider organic sheets if you consider sustainable farming and manufacturing to be important product qualities. Remember: in order to actually be considered organic cotton, the material must be certified by the GOTS, USDA, or another preeminent certifying organization.
Egyptian cotton offers a crisp, lightweight, and breathable feel that many sleepers consider well worth the investment. Sticker price is the biggest downside to this material. A set of pure Egyptian cotton sheets will typically cost at least $400. You may encounter cheaper Egyptian cotton sets, but there’s a chance these items are produced from a blend of Egyptian and regular cotton.
