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Written by
Daniel Noyed, Certified Sleep Coach
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Following a recent round of product tests, we've updated this page with some new picks. The Pure Parima Triple Luxe Sateen Sheet Set is our best luxury pick, the Sijo Clima Cotton Sheet Set is our best all-season pick, and The Company Store's Legends Hotel Supima Cotton Sheet Set is our pick for best hotel-style. The Saatva Organic Percale Sheet Set remains our best overall pick for cotton sheets.
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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.
Best Overall
The Saatva Organic Percale Sheet Set is a great bedding collection for those who prefer to spend their money on responsibly made products. The cotton used to compose each sheet and pillowcase has received GOTS certification, while the companies factories are Fair Trade certified for fair and ethical treatment of workers. Saatva’s supply chain is completely traceable for added transparency.
The sheets are also supremely breathable thanks to a lightweight 300 thread count that is well suited to hot and humid climates. A percale weave provides a crisp hand-feel that gradually softens over time.
The set is available in three neutral colorways. You may also choose from nine different sizes, including three larger split/flex options for couples who share an adjustable bed base. The fitted sheet’s pocket depth makes it compatible with any mattress measuring up to 16 inches thick. When your bedding needs to be cleaned, each item can be washed and dried in your household machines.
The Organic Percale Sheet Set is very reasonably priced, and ground shipping is free of charge anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Your purchase is backed by a 45-night sleep trial and a one-year warranty should you decide to keep the set.
Best Value
Supima cotton, a long-staple variety known for longevity and exceptional softness, is one of the most luxurious bedding materials on the market today. Unfortunately for shoppers, the cotton’s high quality often translates to steep price-points. Quince’s Sateen Supima Cotton Sheet Set may appear expensive at first glance, but it’s actually quite affordable compared to similar sets and the expected durability of these sheets and pillowcases adds further value to your purchase.
A sateen weave enhances the natural softness of these fibers, while the 500 thread count ensures breathability without making the items feel thin or flimsy. Five sizes are available. Twin sets come with one pillowcase, one fitted sheet, and one flat sheet, while larger sizes include all of these elements plus an additional pillowcase.
Customers also choose from three neutral colorways. The fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 16 inches, so the set should be compatible with most mattresses sold today. Cleaning the sheets is quick and painless – simply machine wash on a cold, gentle cycle and tumble dry low.
Quince offers a 365-night sleep trial, which is much longer than the trial periods available from most competing bedding brands. Each order also qualifies for free standard shipping.
Best Egyptian Cotton
Egyptian cotton is prized for its natural longevity and cooling properties. A long-staple variety, the material holds up over time and resists pilling better than other types of cotton. The Silk & Snow Egyptian Cotton Sheets carry a Genuine Egyptian Cotton certification, ensuring each fiber can be directly traced to Egypt. Despite its premium composition, the sheet set carries a below-average price-point that should appeal to shoppers on a budget.
Each item has a sateen weave that creates a luxuriously soft and smooth feel, while a 300 thread count makes the sheets feel lightweight and breathable. The set is sold in five neutral colorways, as well as six sizes that correspond to standard mattress dimensions. The fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 15 inches, so the set will be compatible with most mattresses sold today. You may wash and dry the bedding in your household machines. Silk & Snow recommends using dryer balls instead of dryer sheets.
All customers in the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada qualify for free ground shipping with their order. Your purchase will include a 100-night sleep trial for testing out the bedding and a 1-year warranty against material and workmanship defects.
Most Comfortable
The Brooklinen Classic Core Sheet Set is produced from quality cotton with a tight percale weave. The sheets are designed to feel soft but airy, making them comfortable for all types of sleepers through all four seasons.
The sheet set is composed of long-staple cotton, which is more durable than other cotton varieties. The percale weave gives the sheets a very crisp and lightweight feel. They are also quite breathable – especially during hotter times of the year. The set includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. The fitted sheet has 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 flat sheet has “long” and “short” labels on the corresponding long and short sides, to help orient the sheet when making the bed.
The set comes in six standard sizes and an impressive range of solid colors and patterns to match your decor tastes. You can wash the sheets 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. Brooklinen issues full refunds for used and washed sheet sets returned within 365 nights of the original purchase.
Softest
Cotton is a naturally breathable fabric that is well suited to hot or humid weather, but not all bedding collections are as comfortable when the temperatures drop. The GhostBed GhostSheets are produced from a blend of U.S.-grown Supima cotton and plant-based Tencel lyocell, two materials that regulate temperature quite well and wick moisture away from the body, but a sateen weave and mid-range threat count also make these sheets and pillowcases a good choice for chillier weather when more insulation is needed.
The luxuriously smooth weave should also appeal to people with acne, rashes, and other skin sensitivities. Sateen bedding is also more wrinkle-resistant than percale, which can be convenient for those who don’t have time to routinely iron their sheets. Stability is another strength of this set thanks to the fitted sheet with a 2-inch elastic band along the perimeter. A pocket depth of 15 inches makes the sheet compatible with most mattresses sold today and the banding prevents it from slipping off the corners – a constant source of irritation for people who move around a lot while they sleep.
Every component of this set can be washed and dried in household machines, though line drying helps preserve the structure of the fabric over time. GhostBed offers seven sizes for the collection, including a split king option for couples with adjustable beds or bases. You can also choose from two neutral colorways that complement any bedroom decor.
The GhostSheets are reasonably priced and all customers in the contiguous U.S. qualify for free ground shipping, so the set is a good option for shoppers on a budget. You cannot return the sheets and all sales are considered final, but each purchase is backed by a three-year warranty.
Best Luxury
Egyptian cotton is one of the most luxurious bedding materials on the planet – and as such, sheet sets made from this fabric tend to be quite expensive. Pure Parima’s Triple Luxe Sateen Sheet Set might cost more than the average bedding collection, but its sticker price falls well below average for this type of cotton. Long-staple fibers ensure both excellent longevity and a decadently soft feel, the latter of which is enhanced by the silky-smooth sateen weave.
The set is available in queen, king, and California king sizes. Each includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillowcases with elegant embroidery. The fitted sheet’s pocket depth allows you to use it with any mattress up to 17 inches thick, a range that encompasses most models sold today. Corner straps add extra stability and prevent the sheet from coming loose when you and your partner change sleep positions or toss and turn.
You can choose from six colors for the embroidery. A certification from the Cotton Egypt Association ensures all fibers used to construct the set’s components are sourced directly from Egypt. All components are fully machine-washable. Wash the sheets and pillowcases alone in cold water, then line dry or tumble dry on low heat. Shake out each item before drying to minimize wrinkling, and remove promptly from the dryer once the cycle is complete.
Pure Parima offers free ground delivery to all 50 states and reasonable flat-rate shipping for Canadian customers. The company also accepts returns of undamaged bedding within 100 days of receipt.
Best Cooling
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Miracle sheets
The Miracle Sheet Set – Extra Luxe is made of high-quality cotton that feels soft and smooth against the skin. The sheets also have a specialized design that is intended to reduce bacterial growth.
This 500 thread count sheet set is composed of 95% Supima cotton, which outperforms other cotton varieties when it comes to durability and softness. A sateen weave gives the sheets a silky quality that should appeal to owners who enjoy the look and feel of bedding that drapes closely to the body. Though these sheets feel cool against the skin, hot sleepers may want to keep in mind that sateen sheets trap a modest amount of heat since they drape close to the skin. The fabric is infused with 5% silver, which is intended to inhibit bacterial growth.
The sheet set is available in white, stone, and sky blue color options, and shoppers may pick between twin, full, queen, king, and California king sizes. All sets come with one fitted sheet and one flat sheet. The twin set comes with one pillowcase, and all other sets include two pillowcases. The fitted sheets have a pocket depth of 16 inches, which should accommodate most mattresses on the market. You may machine wash the sheets in warm water and machine dry on a low setting.
Miracle offers full refunds and free return shipping for U.S. customers who return the sheets within 30 nights. The sheets are also covered by a 5-year warranty beyond the sleep trial. Shipping is free throughout the U.S.
Best All-Season
Many sheet sets sleep cool thanks to their fabrication, but the Sijo Clima Cotton Sheet Set takes temperature control to the next level. Each item in this set is constructed from Supima cotton, a durable material known for its silky-soft feel and natural breathability. The cotton fibers are woven with phase change material designed to capture and release body heat on contact, maintaining a comfortable sleep surface even on exceptionally hot or humid nights.
The set is suitable for chilly nights, as well. Thanks to the sateen weave, the sheets drape closely and insulate your body from the cold. The weave gives each item a smooth hand-feel, so you won’t experience any harsh rubbing against your skin. Full, queen, king, and California king sizes are available. Each set includes two pillowcases, a fitted sheet, and a flat sheet – but if you don’t want the latter component, you can forgo it and decrease the cost of your purchase.
The fitted sheet’s pocket depth of 16 inches makes it compatible with most mattresses made today. Caring for the set is quick and easy, as each item is fully machine-washable. Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low. Avoid washing with garments that feature zippers, as these can tear the cotton. Remove the sheets and pillowcases from the dryer as soon as the cycle is finished to minimize wrinkling.
Standard ground delivery is free of charge for orders of $65 or more, which includes each available size of the Clima Cotton Sheet Set. Sijo allows returns within 30 days of the delivery date, and return shipping is also free.
Best Hotel-Style
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on The Company Store sheets
The Legends Hotel Supima Cotton Sheet Set from The Company Store should appeal to a wide range of shoppers. Supima cotton is both soft and durable, ensuring long-lasting comfort and minimal pilling over time. The cotton is also highly breathable, making the set well-suited to hot sleepers and people who are prone to night sweats. A sateen weave enhances the Supima’s silky-smooth feel for a close body drape and good insulation when temperatures drop.
Customers can choose from 17 different colors for their set. These include the usual neutrals such as white and grey, as well as more striking choices such as redwood, blue dusk, and wisteria. The set is also sold in six sizes that correspond to standard mattress dimensions. These collections feature a fitted sheet with a 14-inch pocket depth. Those with taller queen, king, or California king sizes should opt for a “deep pocket” set, in which the fitted sheet’s pocket depth measures 18 inches. For an extra fee, you can order monograms for the fitted sheet and pillowcases.
Each component in the set is fully machine-washable. Wash in cold water with like colors on a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low heat. Do not use bleach with chlorine, and avoid overloading your appliances – this can cause permanent damage to your sheets and also create excessive wrinkling.
The Legends Hotel Supima Cotton Sheet Set is reasonably priced and shipping is free for customers in the contiguous U.S. The Company Store accepts returns for undamaged, non-monogrammed sets within 90 days of the purchase date.
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.
Certified Sleep Coach
Danny is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with an in-depth knowledge of sleep health. He has tested hundreds of mattresses and sleep products.
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