Softest Sheets

Slipping into bed between soft sheets is one of life’s little pleasures. However, shopping for the perfect set can be a headache. With so many sheet options to choose from, you will need to understand some key factors and know your personal preferences.

While many shoppers focus on thread count, this is only one variable in the softness equation. Other characteristics are equally important, including the type of material, thread quality, weave, and craftsmanship.

We’ll share our picks for the softest sheets and explore the aspects that affect how sheets feel. We’ll then provide tips on how to keep your sheets soft. With this information, you’ll be ready to pick and maintain the softest sheets.

Softest Sheets Video

Watch the video below to learn more about our picks for soft sheets. We delve into the feel of our top sheets and how they performed in the test lab.

Product Details

The Luxome Luxury Sheet Set uses viscose from bamboo in a 400 thread count sateen weave. While some higher thread count sateen sheets trap heat, the Luxury Sheet Set stays cool thanks to the breathability and moisture-wicking properties of viscose. The fabric also feels cool to the touch and is especially smooth. It has a good drape and luster reminiscent of silk.

Because of its ability to transfer heat away from the body while letting air circulate, the Luxome Luxury Sheet Set is ideal for many hot sleepers and residents of warm climates. The sheets are also quite durable, so they should have a good life expectancy if you care for them properly.

You can wash the Luxury Sheet Set in cold water on the gentle cycle. Avoid washing it with anything that could catch on the fabric, like zippers.

This set holds OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, indicating that it’s free of many common harmful substances.

The Luxury Sheet Set is available in 10 colors, including both neutrals and more vibrant shades. Sets come in the six standard sizes along with split king. They include a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and two pillowcases packaged in a reusable carrying bag. Twin sizes have one pillowcase, and the split king set comes with two fitted sheets. Across sizes, each fitted sheet has a 17-inch pocket.

Luxome offers free shipping to the contiguous United States. Shoppers can try the sheets for up to 30 days and return them if they’re not satisfied.

Since the material is prized for its quality, true Egyptian cotton usually carries a premium price tag. However, Silk & Snow Egyptian Cotton Sheets are budget friendly despite using hand-picked extra-long staple Egyptian cotton certified by the Cotton Egypt Association.

This sheet set is 300 thread count with a sateen weave, resulting in a fabric that is smooth, lustrous, and durable. Egyptian cotton’s exceptionally long fibers lend softness and breathability to the fabric. They also help with resistance to pilling.

Silk & Snow’s Egyptian Cotton Sheets are spun, dyed, cut, and sewn in Portugal by skilled craftspeople using environmentally conscious practices. The sheets are OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, meaning they’ve been independently tested for harmful substances. The sheets are machine-washable in cold water.

Five color options are available, and sets come in the six standard mattress sizes. Full, queen, king, and California king sizes include a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. Each fitted sheet accommodates most mattresses up to 15 inches thick.

Silk & Snow offers free shipping to the contiguous U.S. The Egyptian Cotton Sheets also come with a 100-night sleep trial and a 1-year warranty.

Boll & Branch Signature Hemmed Sheets use high-quality GOTS-certified organic cotton threads to allow airflow without sacrificing durability. Thanks to the material’s breathable construction, sleepers can enjoy the Signature Hemmed Sheets in any season.

The set uses a buttery sateen weave that feels soft to the touch. It’s likely to get more comfortable over time, becoming more supple with each wash. The material drapes nicely, providing a cozy feel without retaining excessive warmth.

In addition to using GOTS-certified organic cotton, Boll & Branch Signature Hemmed Sheets hold OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification and are produced in a Fair Trade certified factory.

The Signature Hemmed Sheets are available in nine neutral tones. Full, queen, king, and California king sets include one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. Twin and twin XL sets have one pillowcase instead of two, and the split king set has two fitted sheets. Each fitted sheet has a 17-inch pocket depth, which fits most mattress models.

Boll & Branch offers free shipping and a 30-night sleep trial with free returns.

Read our Full Boll & Branch Signature Hemmed Sheets Review to learn more

Bamboo-derived sheets are known for their exceptional softness and breathability, and the Nolah Bamboo Sheet Set is no exception. This made the set comfortable for hot sleepers on our team without sacrificing a soft feel.

The sheets are made from 100% viscose derived from bamboo. The bamboo-derived fabric’s softness is enhanced by a silky sateen weave with a lustrous sheen that drapes closely to the body. We experienced no harsh rubbing or irritation from the sheets, making the set a great choice for sleepers with sensitive skin.

Seven sizes are available, including a split king model with two fitted sheets for couples who own adjustable beds. All other models include a fitted sheet and flat sheet. Twin and twin XL sizes come with one pillowcase, while larger sizes include two. The fitted sheet is compatible with mattresses up to 16 inches thick, accommodating most medium- to high-profile models. The sheets are fully machine-washable for easy care. Wash in cold water and dry on low heat.

Nolah offers free shipping to customers living in the contiguous U.S. The Bamboo Sheet Set is backed by a 30-night trial, during which you can return the sheets for a full refund. If you decide to keep the sheet set, it is backed by a 10-year warranty against structural defects.

Read our Full Nolah Bamboo Sheet Set Review to learn more

The Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set has the satiny feel and elegant drape that shoppers expect from luxury bedding.

These viscose sheets are derived from bamboo. Bamboo is a renewable resource, but processing it into fabric relies on chemicals. To produce quality sheets while minimizing the environmental impact, Cozy Earth works with factories that take steps to limit water, energy, and chemical usage. The resulting viscose sheets use a sateen weave to balance durability, breathability, and smoothness.

Since the Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set wicks away moisture while letting air circulate, it’s especially appropriate for hot sleepers. The viscose fabric also tends to feel cool to the touch. Sleepers with sensitive skin may appreciate the silky, pill-resistant texture.

The fitted sheet has extra-deep pockets that can accommodate mattresses up to 20 inches thick. The sheets are machine-washable in cold water with regular detergent.

Shoppers can choose from five classic neutrals. Most sizes of the Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set include one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. The split king size includes two twin size fitted sheets, a flat sheet, and two pillowcases.

Cozy Earth offers free shipping, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty. All sheet sets come packaged in a reusable Cozy Earth tote.

Read our Full Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set Review to learn more

Saatva’s Organic Sateen Sheet Set is made from GOTS and Fair Trade certified long-staple cotton. While GOTS certification verifies that the material is organic, Fair Trade certification indicates that it meets specific environmental, social, and economic standards.

This set is 300 thread count and has a sateen weave, giving it a buttery feel that balances softness and breathability. The sheets are designed to hold up well with wear, becoming softer with each wash. Since the sheets are machine-washable in cold water on the gentle cycle, laundering them is simple.

The fitted sheet has a deep pocket that can accommodate most mattresses between 11 and 16 inches thick.

Each Organic Sateen Sheet Set includes one fitted sheet and one flat sheet. Full sizes and larger also include two pillowcases, while twin and twin XL sizes come with one pillowcase. Shoppers can choose from three classic neutrals: white, ivory, and grey. These colors either take advantage of the cotton’s natural hue or use eco-friendly dyes. The set is available in nine sizes, including the six standard sizes along with split king, queen upper-flex, and king upper-flex. The split king option comes with two twin XL fitted sheets.

Saatva offers free shipping in the contiguous United States, a 45-day return policy, and a 1-year limited warranty.

Made with 480 thread count long-staple cotton, the Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set feels buttery soft. While the drapey sateen weave gives the sheets a cozy feel, they are also breathable enough for all-season use. The finish and notable drape lend a polished look. With more washing, the sheets also soften and better resist wrinkles.

The Luxe Core Sheet Set fits mattresses between 10 and 15 inches thick. Tags indicate the long and short sides for easy bed making. These sheets hold OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification and are machine-washable.

Each set includes one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. Size options range from twin to California king. The Essentials color line includes white, cream, graphite, and two neutral patterns. A rotating Limited Edition series offers a selection of additional patterns and solids.

Brooklinen offers a generous 365-day trial period as well as an additional 1-year warranty. Shipping and returns are free.

If you want bedding that offers exceptional cooling, you should consider sheets and pillowcases made from Tencel. This eucalyptus-derived fabric retains the natural breathability of its botanical source, and also wicks moisture away from the body to keep you dry on hot or humid nights. The Sijo AiryWeight Eucalyptus Sheet Set offers these properties at a much lower cost than many competing Tencel bedding collections. After testing the set, we can confirm the sheets provide excellent temperature regulation  — even for people who consider themselves “hot sleepers.”

A sateen weave leaves each item silky-smooth, making this set ideal if you prefer bedding that drapes closely and glides gently over your skin. You can choose from six colors, all of which are enhanced by the weave’s elegant sheet. The set is available with or without a flat sheet. If you opt for the latter, you’ll receive a fitted sheet and one to two pillowcases. The fitted sheet’s pocket depth makes the set compatible with mattresses up to 16 inches thick.

Caring for the sheets is a quick, easy process. Machine wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low heat. Be sure to remove your bedding from the dryer as soon as the cycle concludes — this is the best way to minimize wrinkling. This cleaning method can also help prevent premature pilling.

In addition to carrying a relatively affordable sticker price, the AiryWeight Eucalyptus Sheet Set qualifies for free ground shipping within the U.S. Your order includes a 30-night trial beginning on the delivery date. If you aren’t satisfied within the trial period, Sijo issues a full refund and covers return shipping charges.

Soft sheets that drape closely to the body may trap heat and sleep somewhat warm. However, this isn’t the case with the Deep Pocket Bamboo Cotton Sheets from Brooklyn Bedding. Each item is composed of a fabric blend combining cotton and rayon derived from bamboo. Not only are these two of the softest bedding materials in use today, but both are naturally breathable and the rayon has moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry on humid nights. A sateen weave adds to the softness and should feel soothing for people with sensitive skin.

You can choose from three neutral colors — white, khaki, and silver — as well as seven sizes, including a split king with two fitted sheets if you share an adjustable bed with your partner. Standard sizes feature a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and one to two pillowcases. The fitted sheet offers a pocket depth of 17 inches, allowing it to fit the vast majority of mattresses made today. Each item is fully machine-washable. Wash the sheets and pillowcases in warm water, then either tumble dry or air dry.

The Deep Pocket Bamboo Cotton Sheets are reasonably priced and customers in the contiguous U.S. enjoy free ground shipping. Your order comes with a trial period spanning 30 nights in length. If you decide to keep the set, Brooklyn Bedding further backs your purchase with a 1-year warranty against material defects.

Soft sheets don’t always regulate temperature well, as drapey fabric can trap heat while you sleep. However, this shouldn’t be an issue with the Eucalypso Classic Sheet Set. Each item in this collection is composed of Tencel fabric derived from eucalyptus fibers. This material retains the natural breathability of its botanical source and wicks moisture away from the body, so you’ll stay cool and dry even on hot or humid nights.

Tencel is also known for luxurious softness. The fabric glides gently over your skin and won’t rub harshly like other bedding materials such as cotton percale or linen, making these sheets a good option for people with sensitive skin. A sateen weave enhances the Tencel’s silky-smooth hand feel without compromising temperature control.

The set is available in six sizes. Twin size sets include a pillowcase, flat sheet, and fitted sheet. Larger sets feature all of these elements as well as an additional pillowcase, and the split king for couples with adjustable beds includes two fitted sheets. The fitted sheet’s pocket depth makes it compatible with any mattress up to 18 inches thick, a range that encompasses most mattresses made today. You can also choose from eight solid colors.

Each component can be washed and dried in household machines, making the set easy to clean whenever needed. We also recommend this collection for its eco-friendliness. Eucalypso follows a closed-loop manufacturing process ensuring no toxic chemicals are used, and that more than 99% of water and solvents are recycled.

A reasonable price-point and free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. make the Classic Sheet Set a good option for shoppers with limited budgets. Eucalypso permits returns within 30 days of the purchase date. You may also exchange your set for a different size or color, provided each item is unused and unwashed when you initiate the return.

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How to Choose the Softest Sheets

Many sheet sets tout their softness, so choosing the best option for you can be difficult. Adding to the confusion, some manufacturers make misleading claims about thread count. However, there are several critical aspects you can focus on when shopping for the softest bed sheets.

What to Consider When Buying Soft Sheets

Marketing claims can make nearly any sheet set sound ideal. Manufacturers may inflate their thread counts, exaggerate their material quality, misrepresent the type of fiber, or mislead shoppers about the health or sustainability of their products.

The best way to see past promotional jargon is to focus on your priorities regarding sleep temperature, aesthetics, price, and overall feel, as well as your personal preferences in general.

• Weave and Knit
  Weave and knit refer to how individual threads come together to form the sheet. Woven sheets consist of lengthwise threads (warp) and widthwise threads (weft). A simple one-over-one-under weave is called percale, which makes sheets airy and crisp. The denser sateen weave features a three-over-one-under pattern or a four-over-one-under pattern. Sateen exposes more of the surface of the thread for a smoother, softer sheet with a noticeable drape.

  Knit sheets are also known for their softness. Created using a continuous thread that is looped together, knit sheets are stretchier than woven sheets and feel like a worn t-shirt.

• Ply
  Ply describes how many yarns are twisted together to make up a thread. Sheets can be single, double, or even triple ply. Generally, a lower ply count indicates a higher quality thread. Single-ply threads require strong, supple long-staple fibers. Short-staple fibers need to be twisted together into multi-ply threads, exposing more fiber ends for a rougher feel.
• Thread Count
  Thread count is a measure of how many threads are in a square inch of fabric. Finer threads take up less space and can be more densely woven. This results in a higher thread count. For softer sheets, aim for a thread count between 200 and 600, depending on the material.

  Keep in mind that thread count is not always an indication of quality or softness. Most sleepers won’t notice a significant difference between the feel of sheets past a thread count of 600. Additionally, be cautious with sheets claiming to have a thread count over 900. Some manufacturers count each ply separately, artificially inflating the thread count of lower-quality two- or three-ply sheets.

• Staple Length
  Staple length describes the length of the individual fibers used to spin the yarn. Long-staple fibers create stronger, softer threads, which in turn make for stronger, softer sheets.
• Design, Color, and Pattern
  While most dyes do not significantly impact the feel of the fabric, chemical dyes could affect the quality of the fibers. For a softer feel, solid sheets in natural colors are usually the safest bet.

  Otherwise, check that the sheets use a gentle dye. A good guideline is to look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, which verifies that the sheets are free from certain harmful substances.

• Breathability
  For hot sleepers and those who live in warm climates, sheet breathability is often as important as softness.

  The one-over-one-under percale weave makes for a crisp, airy sheet. Percale fabric is generally smooth and becomes softer with age. Meanwhile, knit sheets tend to be breathable, soft, and stretchy. The denser weave of sateen sheets is typically smooth and buttery, but it also traps more heat.

  Material type is another consideration for breathability. Natural fibers, like cotton and linen, tend to sleep cooler than all-synthetic options. Viscose, a semisynthetic fabric, is also popular for its balance of softness and breathability.

• Feel
  Feel may be the most obvious measure of softness. However, even the most vivid description can only go so far in communicating the texture of a sheet, particularly since feel is subjective. Understanding how weave and material affect the feel can help you better anticipate how soft a sheet set may be. Some companies also offer sleep trials, allowing shoppers to experience the sheets firsthand.
• Fit
  The pocket of your fitted sheet should easily accommodate your mattress’ depth. If the sheet is too tight, it could damage the fabric or pop off your bed. A fitted sheet that is too big could wrinkle or bunch, which many sleepers find uncomfortable. Pay attention to the stated size and pocket depth before purchasing a sheet set.
• Price
  Price is not always an indicator of quality, but premium raw materials and high-quality production processes often lead to softer sheets and higher price tags. That said, not all expensive sheets are soft, and some budget-friendly options are.
• Durability
  Softness and durability often go hand in hand. Long-staple fibers are a key component of most ultrasoft sheets. These fibers are soft and strong, creating fabric that stands up well to wear and tear while maintaining a smooth texture.
• Ease of Care
  Washing your sheets regularly keeps your bedding fresh. High-quality sheets typically maintain their shape and appearance with proper care. In fact, many sheets that use long-staple fibers get softer over time.

How Material Type Affects the Softness of Sheets

Material plays a major role in how a fabric feels, and there are several options that can create soft sheets. Breathable cotton and cozy flannel are perhaps the most common. Luxurious silk, moisture-wicking viscose from bamboo, and smooth Tencel are also popular. Fully synthetic polyester and microfiber sheets can also provide softness at an affordable price.

Each of these materials has a different feel and performance. While any of them can be soft, their textures vary. Therefore, the softest material for bed sheets depends primarily on your preferences.

• Cotton: Cotton comes in short- and long-staple varieties. Sheets made of short-staple cotton have more exposed fiber ends, so they may feel rough. Long-staple fibers create a thread that is fine, smooth, and strong, leading to softer sheets.
• Flannel: Flannel can use cotton, wool, polyester, or microfiber. Cotton is usually the softest. Once woven, the fabric is brushed to lift fine fibers. This creates a fuzzy softness that feels especially cozy in cold climates.
• Silk: Created from the cocoons of silkworms, fine diameter silk threads make for lustrous, smooth sheets that are soft on the skin without feeling slippery.
• Bamboo: Types of fabric derived from bamboo include rayon, lyocell, viscose, and bamboo linen. Most are semisynthetic due to their chemical processing. They tend to be silky, moisture-wicking, and breathable. However, bamboo linen is minimally processed and has a rougher feel.
• Tencel: Like most bamboo-based fabrics, Tencel is made from processed wood pulp. The resulting material has smooth, silk-like qualities. Tencel sheets are also moisture-wicking and breathable.
• Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fiber made from petroleum. While lightweight and smooth, polyester sheets can often pill and trap heat.
• Microfiber: Microfiber consists of extremely fine fibers, typically made from polyester, nylon, or a combination of the two. These thinner fibers make microfiber sheets softer and sleeker than most polyester options. However, they’re also prone to heat retention and pilling.

Tips to Help Keep Sheets Soft

Sheets may feel coarse due to chemical treatments during manufacturing, low thread count, short staple length, and other factors. Whether your sheets are supple right out of the package or start out rough, there are several methods to soften them.

Weekly washing is the most common method. This cleanses the fabric of dirt, sweat, and body oils that can affect how the sheets feel. Many sheets also grow softer with each wash. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and avoid harsh detergents to preserve the life expectancy and comfort of your sheets.

• Baking Soda and Vinegar
  Traditional laundry detergents may include chemicals that could build up on the fabric, stiffening your sheets. Running a wash cycle with a half cup of vinegar and a cup of baking soda instead of your usual detergent can help remove residue to soften the fabric.
• Line Dry
  The high heat of a dryer can be tough on fabric. Line drying is a good alternative. You might hang your sheets on a line outside or in your laundry room, space permitting. Line drying can extend the life of your sheets and enhance their softness. It can also slash your energy bill and reduce your environmental impact. If you do not have space to line dry your sheets, drying them on a low heat setting is also effective.
• Should I Use Fabric Softener?
  Using fabric softener on sheets is generally not advisable. Fabric softener works by coating the fibers, reducing static and wrinkles. While fabric softener may make some sheets feel softer at first, it can leave a residue that damages fibers, decreases breathability, and reduces softness. Additionally, high-quality sheets do not tend to need fabric softener to feel soft.

Frequently Asked Questions