Bed Sheet Buying Guide: How to Choose Bed Sheets
Settle in with the right sheets.
Investing in the right bedding can save you in the long run – both in health benefits and the longevity of your bedding. As the closest layer to your skin, it makes sense that you should pick sheets that you look forward to slipping into each night. From fiber length to thread count to material, our bed sheet buying guide will help you find the right set to suit your sleeping preferences.
In This Guide:
Consider the Properties of Sheets
Find the Right Sheet Material
Pick the Correct Bed Sheet Size
Consider the Properties of Sheets
As you learn how to choose bed sheets, it is important that you understand the basics. How sheets are made can impact how they feel, fit, and last. Terms like “weave,” “fiber length,” and “thread count” may all seem technical at first, but understanding them can help you find the best sheets for your bed.
Weave
Once cotton has been harvested, it is spun into thread which is then woven into a variety of fabrics such as percale and sateen. The biggest difference between percale and sateen is the weave structure, i.e., the weft and warp. Though the weave is not as large a consideration as the thread count of a material, it can still make a noticeable difference that may affect the best sheet material choice for you.
Percale: Percale is the most common bed-sheet weave. This crisscross pattern forms an over-under grid that contains the same amount of surface threads on both sides. Percale sheets are crisp, lightweight, and breathable, with a matte appearance due to their tight weave. Similarly to cotton, percale sheets are strong and durable, with a hotel luxury feel. Though they do wrinkle more easily and can be rough to the touch, percale sheets do get softer with each wash. The best percale sheets have a breathability that is ideal for year-round comfort, warmer temperatures, and for those who get hot in the night.
100% Cotton Sateen: Sateen sheets are made from 100% cotton with a high thread count. The weft in sateen is one under and several over (usually around four, though this can vary). The length of thread that is exposed on the surface is referred to as "floating." The lack of interlacing and weaving of the fibers creates a smooth, flat surface which gives the sateen its shiny appearance. This weave produces a soft and silky material because it is not overly tight or rigid. It is, however, slightly weaker and less resilient to wear and tear. Considered one of the best luxury sheets, sateen is a premium material with a buttery-soft feel that is great for year-round comfort, cool temperatures, and those who sleep cooler at night.
Tip!
Learn more about these two with our guides: What Is Percale? Everything You Need to Know About Percale and What Is Cotton Sateen?
Ply
Ply can be a great indicator of a sheet's quality and refers to the amount of yarns in each thread. There are three ply options: single, two, and multi. Single-ply is made of only one yarn per thread, while two-ply is made of two strands of yarn twisted together in each thread.
Fiber Length
A large part of the feel of a fabric comes from a quality referred to as “staple,” or fiber length. There are three staples available, all of which make a large difference in the quality, strength, and softness of the cotton.
Short Staple: The most common fiber length, short-staple fibers are the shortest of them all. They produce cotton that is ideal for basic, everyday usage.
Long Staple: Mostly used for sheets, towels, and other quality products, the added length of long staple cotton fibers increases the softness and silkiness of the cotton. Material made with long staples also has a smoother surface that doesn't pill or tear as much.
Extra-Long Staple: Cottons used to create the best luxury sheets are made with extra-long-staple fibers. Materials such as Egyptian cotton and pima cotton are made from extra-long staples. These fibers are harder to come by, making them more costly and more luxe than the others.
Thread Count
Thread count refers to the number of horizontal (weft) and vertical (warp) threads per square inch of fabric. Thread count usually only applies to cotton sheets. Although higher thread-count sheets often cost more, they can be less durable and more prone to tearing and wearing thin.
It is a common belief that the thread count is the only important factor to consider when choosing the best sheet materials. Ideally, you should also pay close attention to the materials, weave, and finish of the sheets, as these will affect the feel and texture of the sheets.
Tip!
For additional information about thread counts, read our guide Bed Sheet Thread Count: What You Should Know.
Find the Right Sheet Material
Material is another key consideration for buying the best bed sheets. Think about your preferences – crisp or soft, warm or cool, easy care or higher maintenance – to help you determine the right fit.
Natural fibers like linen and cotton are known for their breathability and moisture-wicking qualities, which is ideal for those who run hot. Plant-based materials like TENCEL or bamboo rayon have a smooth, durable feel. Synthetic fabrics, such as microfiber, are soft and budget-friendly but less breathable. Silk and satin sheets are smooth and lustrous, great for creating a luxurious sleep setup.
For a more detailed description of each material (and why it might be a good match for your bed), check out our guide Sleep Comfortably With the Best Sheet Materials.
Bed sheets come in a variety of sizes to match the standard bed sizes, including twin, twin XL, full/double, queen, king, and California king. Fitted sheets include the measurements of the mattress size they'll accommodate, so it's important to check the product description to ensure that the fitted sheet will fit your mattress.
If you need help sizing your sheets, read Guide to Bed Sheet Sizes to find tips on measuring for sheets, checking the pocket depth, and picking the right pillowcase sizes.
