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Written by
Daniel Noyed, Certified Sleep Coach
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In light of some recent product tests, we've added the Down Cotton Wrinkle Free Brushed Performance Sheets to this page as our softest pick. The Brooklyn Bedding Brushed Microfiber Sheets remain our best overall pick for this category.
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Microfiber sheets offer excellent value for money, boasting many of the qualities of more expensive materials at a fraction of the price. This synthetic material is woven with ultra-thin fibers that give it superior durability and a smooth feel that rivals silk.
Microfiber sheets don’t have the long history of cotton or linen sheets, but they are rapidly gaining popularity from customers who appreciate having an alternative to cotton and linen. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly sheet set that’s comfortable and easy to wash, microfiber may be your new best friend.
We’ll go into the properties of microfiber and how these influence the feel. We’ll also share our top picks and provide some recommendations on how to choose the best microfiber sheets for you.
Best Overall
These microfiber sheets from Brooklyn Bedding are brushed, meaning the fibers have been gently lifted for an even softer, fluffier feel. The sheets are made of 100% polyester microfiber with a tight weave that helps ensure maximum durability and resistance against pilling.
The Brooklyn Bedding Brushed Microfiber Sheets wick moisture away from the sleeper to maintain a cooler sleep environment. Their lightweight feel makes them popular with people who normally sleep hot with microfiber sheets.
The sheets are available in six elegant colors and all the standard mattress sizes, plus split king and full XL. They are wrinkle-resistant and easy to care for, able to be machine-washed and tumble-dried on low heat. The fitted sheet should fit most mattresses as it’s suitable for mattresses between 11 and 14 inches tall. Brooklyn Bedding offers a 30-day return window, so you can order the sheets risk-free and see how they look in your bedroom before committing.
Best Value
Deep pocket sheets often carry a higher price tag than their standard depth counterparts. The Extra Deep Pocket Microfiber Sheet Set from Mellanni is a comfortable and affordable option for shoppers who need a deep pocket set that won’t break the bank. These sheets are made from 100% brushed microfiber that’s both soft and durable.
While mattress heights vary by brand and model, standard mattresses usually fall in the 8-12 inch range. Typically, a mattress is considered high-profile if it measures above 13 inches tall. Many regular-depth fitted sheets won’t stretch enough to fit mattresses that high, but Mellanni’s deep pocket set is designed to fit very high profile mattresses that are between 17-24 inches tall.
Elastic is sewn around the entire fitted sheet’s perimeter to ensure it stays securely attached to your mattress. Shoppers can purchase this deep pocket set in six standard sizes and 15 different colors. Microfiber is typically easy to launder and this set is no exception. You can wash these sheets at home using cold water and your machine’s gentle cycle. Drying this set on low is important, as they can melt with extreme heat. These sheets are designed to withstand pilling, fading, wrinkling, and shrinking.
Mellanni ships its deep pocket sheets for free to shoppers who live in the U.S. They carry a lifetime warranty and can be returned at any time for a full refund.
Best Luxury
The PlushBeds Brushed Microfiber Sheet Set is a higher-end option with a luxurious, velvety feel for sleepers who tend to run cold at night. Shoppers with high-profile mattresses should also appreciate the generous 18-inch pocket depth.
Every item in the set is made with brushed microfiber that resists wrinkling, pilling, and shrinking, even after multiple washes. The fabric is lightweight and drapes close to the body to insulate warmth. Nine size options are available – twin, twin XL, full, queen, split queen, king, split king, California king, and split California king.
Depending on the size you choose, standard sizes come with one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and one or more pillowcases. Split queen, split king, and split California king purchases come with two fitted sheets. Each fitted sheet features a thicker elastic to ensure it is tightly secured to the mattress. Sets are fully washable in household machines. Wash in warm water on a gentle cycle and rinse in cold water. Although the sheets resist wrinkling, immediately removing the sheets from the dryer is recommended.
PlushBeds ships free to the contiguous U.S. Customers can return unopened and unused sheets only for the cost of shipping. Brushed Microfiber Sheet Sets are backed by a 3-year warranty.
Most Comfortable
Sleepers who want a microfiber sheet set with a luxurious feel should consider Bear Sheets. This high-quality microfiber fabric has the smooth feel of silk without the price tag that often accompanies luxury sheets. While many microfiber sheets can sleep fairly hot, Bear combats this issue by using finely woven threads that feel lightweight and airy.
This set has an affordable price-point, especially when considering its quality materials and craftsmanship. Shoppers with very high-profile mattresses will find this set suitable, as the fitted sheet is designed to fit models up to 18 inches tall. The sheets are available in six sizes, including California king. They come in one color, standard white.
You can wash your Bear Sheets easily using cold water and tumble drying on low. Bear recommends removing the sheets quickly from the dryer to prevent wrinkling. Shoppers in the contiguous U.S. qualify for free shipping as well as a 30-night sleep trial. Bear backs its sheet set with a 1-year warranty that protects against manufacturing defects.
Softest
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The Wrinkle Free Brushed Performance Sheets from Down Cotton are exceptionally soft, even compared to other microfiber bedding sets. An intensive brushing process during production eases the fibers, resulting in a material that drapes closely to the skin. This creates a fair amount of insulation to keep you warm and cozy on cold nights, but the fabric is fairly breathable and shouldn’t trap excess heat during warmer or more humid times of the year. The smooth feel of these sheets is also ideal for people with acne, rashes, and other conditions that cause sensitive skin.
The set is available in twin, full, queen, king, and California king sizes. Shoppers can also choose from nine different colors, which range from neutrals to more striking options such as deep blue, burgundy, and chocolate. Each item in the collection can be washed and dried in your household machines. Wash in cool water using mild liquid detergent, then tumble dry on low heat. The fabric is designed to resist wrinkling, but you can help ensure a neat appearance by removing each item from the dryer as soon as the cycle is complete.
The Wrinkle Free Brushed Performance Sheets carry an affordable price tag in all sizes and Down Cotton offers low-cost ground shipping for all U.S. orders. Returns are permitted within 30 days of the delivery date, and those who opt to do so receive a full product refund.
Best Range of Colors
The 6-Piece Essential Sheet Set from Linens & Hutch is a standout option for shoppers who want durable yet comfortable sheets. The double-brushed microfiber fabric has a soft, slightly velvety hand-feel. This set’s grams per square meter (GSM) is 95, which means the fabric is densely woven and likely to last without significant pilling.
Shoppers looking to complement their decor will be pleased with this set’s wide variety of available colors. There are 16 different color options including bright and bold hues along with classics like white and ivory. The fitted sheets have a 16-inch pocket depth that fits standard and high-profile mattresses alike.
An advantage to using microfiber sheets is the low-maintenance care, and the Essential Set is no exception. You can wash these sheets in cold water and tumble dry on low. The sheets are intended to resist wrinkling and color fading. Sleepers with sensitive skin will appreciate that the microfiber fabric is engineered to be hypoallergenic.
You can purchase the Essential Set in six standard sizes that each have a budget-friendly price-point. Linens & Hutch offers free shipping and a 101-night sleep trial to qualifying shoppers.
Best Cooling
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on SpineAlign sheets
Microfiber sheets generally sleep cool due to their ultrafine composition, which allows air to circulate better compared to other types of polyester fabric. What makes the SpineAlign Brushed Microfiber Sheets standout from similarly constructed sets is a brushing process during production that softens the material and makes them more absorbent. As a result, the sheets and pillowcases also wick moisture away from your body to keep you comfortable on humid nights.
You can choose from eight different sizes for your set. These include six options that correspond with standard mattress dimensions, a split king with two fitted sheets for couples who share an adjustable bed, and a full XL for those who use this less common mattress size. The fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 15 inches, so it will be compatible with most mattresses on the market today. In addition to the fitted sheet, each set also features a flat sheet and one to two pillowcases. All components are fully machine-washable for quick and easy care. SpineAlign also offers six color options for the collection, such as sage, blue mist, and khaki.
An approachable price-point and free ground shipping for contiguous U.S. orders make the set a good option for shoppers on a budget. Sheet sets may be returned in their original packaging within 30 days of the delivery date. Your purchase also comes with a 1-year warranty against structural defects.
The thickness of a fiber is measured in denier, which technically refers to the mass in grams of 9 kilometers of a given fiber. A higher denier translates to a thicker fiber. Microfiber has a denier of less than 1. For comparison, silk is considered among the finest natural fibers, with a denier of 1.25. Since microfiber is so incredibly thin, it can be tightly woven into a sleek and durable material.
By nature, microfiber sheets are soft and sheeny, with a flowy drape. They tend to trap heat despite being lightweight, and sleepers in colder climates often opt for microfiber sheets that have had their fibers “brushed” on one or both sides for a fuzzier, warmer feel. Microfiber can be produced on its own or blended with cotton, linen, or other materials to give it different properties.
Microfiber sheets share some common qualities, but each set can perform quite differently depending on how they are made. We’ll discuss considerations like weave, thread count, and breathability, as well as practical information about ease of care, durability, and more.
Many luxury bedding companies use grandiose marketing terms to justify a higher price-tag. While quality sheets undoubtedly do cost more to produce, inflated prices are not always a guarantee of good quality.
A little basic knowledge goes a long way when buying any kind of sheets, and that applies to microfiber sheets as well. Understanding which factors you value most in a sheet set can help you on your search for the best microfiber bed sheets.
Weave
Aside from the material, the weave is one of the most significant factors in determining durability, feel, and ease of care. Microfiber sheets are usually woven with a tight weave which increases durability and helps them resist wrinkling. The two most common weaves used to make microfiber sheets are percale and sateen.
Feel
The feel of your sheets is undeniably important given that you’re wrapping yourself in them every night. Some sleepers prefer soft and fuzzy sheets, others prefer sleek and silky sheets, and still others prefer crisp and breathable sheets. Microfiber usually tends toward feeling silky and sleek, with brushed microfiber offering more of a velvety feel.
Fit
Most bed sheets are designed to fit the standard mattress sizes, although some manufacturers may offer limited sizing. The most important component to check is the fitted sheet. Fitted sheets that are too big for the mattress can wrinkle and bunch up, while fitted sheets that are too small may slip off. This is especially true of microfiber sheets as they are inherently slippery. Look for a fitted sheet with a fully elasticized pocket that specifically states it’s suitable for your mattress height.
Price
We all want the best sheets for our money, especially when buying more than one sheet set. Microfiber sheets are usually more affordable than cotton and linen sheets, which makes them a great choice for those with a limited budget. Bedding companies may offer sales that can lower the price-tag even further.
Thread Count
Thread count is one of the first things people tend to check when buying sheets. A higher thread count is seen as a guarantee of better-quality sheets, although it’s not always that straightforward. While microfiber sheets can be measured in thread count, a more accurate way to gauge the feel before buying is by asking the GSM. A higher GSM usually means the sheets will be warmer, heavier, and more durable.
Design, Color and Pattern
As a central part of the bedroom, many people appreciate having a choice of design for their bed sheets. If you’re intent on finding the perfect matching sheet set for your room, then microfiber is a good choice. The material holds its color well, allowing manufacturers to branch out and experiment with a plethora of designs and patterns in every color of the rainbow.
Breathability
Sheets made with thinner fibers or a looser weave tend to allow for more airflow. This prevents heat retention and improves temperature regulation, a quality that is especially desirable for sleepers with a tendency to overheat. Microfiber sheets are quite densely woven and they may trap more heat than other materials. Hot sleepers can look out for microfiber sheets with a lower GSM or thread count, as these tend to breathe better.
Durability
Considering the price and the fineness of the fibers, microfiber sheets are surprisingly durable. That said, they will eventually tear, especially in the case of low-quality microfiber sheets. This moment can catch you off-guard because the sheets rarely show signs of wear-and-tear prior to that point. Spending just a little more for better-quality microfiber sheets can help avoid having them fall apart after just a few months.
Ease of Care
Bed sheets should be washed regularly, about once every week or two, so it’s vital to have a set that’s easy to wash. Microfiber sheets generally hold up well to washing, and they don’t require dry cleaning or delicate handling.
Microfiber is most commonly made from polyester, but you’ll also see sheets made from other materials like nylon or cellulose.
Most microfiber sheets feature either a percale or a sateen weave, each of which offers advantages depending on what style you prefer:
Microfiber sheets are a cost-efficient option for those who want a soft, durable sheet set without resorting to more expensive materials. However, microfiber also has its drawbacks, the most notable being its tendency to retain heat.
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Microfiber sheets are lightweight and they wick moisture, yet they trap a good deal of heat. Due to this unique set of attributes, many sleepers find microfiber sheets suitable for year-round use.
Their luxurious feel, versatility, and low price-point makes them popular not only with shoppers on a budget, but with any shoppers seeking a good deal and a low-maintenance set of sheets. Many people with allergies or sensitive skin find that microfiber allows for a comfortable sleep.
Because they sleep warm, microfiber sheets may not be suitable for hot sleepers. Those who favor crisp or cool sheets would do better to stick with cotton percale. Likewise, while microfiber does trap heat, it doesn’t sleep quite as warm as flannel. Sleepers who are looking to replace a comforter or save heating costs in the winter months may prefer flannel.
Sustainably-minded shoppers usually opt for natural materials such as linen or organic cotton.
Thread count describes the total number of vertical plus horizontal threads in one square inch. For natural fibers like cotton, a high thread count usually denotes better-quality sheets that have been woven with longer, finer fibers.
As microfiber is produced using synthetic fibers with different properties, the normal rules of thread count don’t really apply. Instead, the quality of microfiber sheets is usually given by their density, measured grams per square meter (GSM).
Microfiber sheets range in density from about 55 GSM to 120 GSM, with good-quality sheets starting around 100 GSM. Densely woven sheets with a higher GSM will be thicker and heavier. A tight weave is usually softer and more durable, but it may also trap more heat. Conversely, a looser weave will breathe better, but it may not last as long before starting to pill or tear.
When shopping for microfiber sheets, be aware of misleading thread count claims. Some companies take advantage of the confusion surrounding this concept, and insert high numbers to give the illusion of a high thread count. Such a number, or a mention of thread count with no mention of the GSM, is usually a red flag.
What is the typical price range for microfiber sheets?
The average set of microfiber sheets costs between $25 and $80, with even the best-quality microfiber sheets boasting a relatively low price-point. This low cost is largely due to the fact that it’s a manmade material and doesn’t have the high cultivation and manufacturing costs of cotton or linen.
How long do microfiber sheets last?
A decent set of microfiber sheets should last at least 2 to 3 years with regular use. Unlike cotton, microfiber doesn’t suffer much from being washed, and many microfiber sheets are pill-resistant as well. In fact, microfiber may not even show signs of wear at all until it starts to tear one day. While microfiber may not boast the decades-long lifespan of linen or high-quality cotton, its longevity is more than sufficient given its low purchasing cost.
How do I wash and care for microfiber sheets?
Virtually all microfiber sheets can be machine-washed in cold or warm water and either tumble-dried on low or line-dried, as they are quick to dry. As with any sheet set, it’s best to wash them every week or two. Microfiber sheets can withstand frequent washing and don’t wrinkle as easily as some other materials. You should always check the care instructions before washing for the first time.
How do microfiber sheets compare to cotton sheets?
Microfiber is a lightweight and slinky material, whereas cotton is more known for being crisp and breathable. Microfiber doesn’t pill or fade as much as cotton, and the latter needs a bit of extra attention when washing. While microfiber sheets cost substantially less than good-quality cotton sheets, cotton sheets have a longevity that’s hard to beat. Each material has quite a different set of attributes, so the best material for you will depend on what you’re looking for.
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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