Choosing your next bed sheets involves more than looking for a good price or finding a color that you like. Your bed sheets can affect how well you sleep, since they can contribute to temperature regulation, your comfort, and even allergy prevention. A good set of sheets is an investment in your quality sleep, but you need to determine which sheets are right for you.
Our guide to the best sheets highlights some of the top sheets you may want to consider, and also outlines information that can help you determine the quality of any sheets you may be interested in. When identifying the best sheets, we weighed factors like material, durability, price, and return policies to determine which sheets not only offer great value, but also create a desirable sleep environment.
We’ve also included information about some of the most common sheet materials. Learn what differentiates Egyptian cotton from standard cotton, and find out how to assess the quality of silk sheets. Whether you decide one of our top picks is right for you or decide that another type of sheet would match your needs better, read on to learn how to ensure that your next set of sheets is your best yet.
Our Top Picks: Summary
- Best Overall: Brooklinen Classic Core Sheet Set
- Best Value: Brooklyn Bedding Brushed Microfiber Sheets
- Best Luxury: Parachute Percale Sheet Set
- Best Linen: Tuft and Needle Linen Sheets
- Best Flannel: Pinzon Signature Flannel Sheets
Best Overall: Brooklinen Classic Core Sheet Set
Brooklinen Classic Core Sheet Set
270 thread count cotton sheets for a soft, breathable feel.
Why We Picked Them
The Brooklinen Classic Core Sheet Set features a 270 thread count and is made of long staple cotton for breathable, soft comfort. These sheets help to keep hot sleepers cool through the night and offer both quality and a luxurious feel. The sheets are OEKO-TEX certified, meaning that they have been tested and found to be free of harmful substances and chemicals.
While one of the major benefits of these sheets is in their quality construction, they offer many other benefits that make them one of our top picks. You can choose from nine “Essential” colors and patterns, as well as three Limited Edition colors. These sheets are available in six different sizes, and the King and California King sheet sets come with king-sized pillowcases. These sheets can accommodate mattresses and/or toppers up to 15” high, and they’re labeled with “Long” and “Short” side indicators to make putting them onto your bed easy.
Keep in Mind
These sheets carry a higher price point than others, but their quality justifies their price. To get the most out of your sheets, Brooklinen recommends that you line-dry them to preserve their elasticity and colors after washing.
In a Nutshell
- 270-thread-count cotton sheets are breathable and ideal for hot sleepers
- “Long” and “short” side labels make changing your sheets simple
- Brooklinen offers free returns, exchanges, and replacements to ensure that you’re happy with your purchase
Best Value: Brooklyn Bedding Brushed Microfiber Sheets
Brooklyn Bedding Brushed Microfiber Sheets
Super soft and wrinkle-resistant microfiber sheets from Brooklyn Bedding.
Why We Picked Them
Brooklyn Bedding’s Brushed Microfiber Sheets are breathable, soft, and wrinkle-resistant, and they’re priced low enough that you can buy multiple sets. These sheets are 100 percent polyester, which helps to resist wrinkles and pilling for better long-term performance than other materials. Because each of the fibers is less than one denier in diameter, this tighter weave creates a supremely soft sheet. Lightweight and moisture-wicking, these sheets stay cool throughout the night.
These sheets can fit mattresses and toppers that are between 11” and 14” thick, so you can pair them with most mattresses. They are machine washable for easy maintenance and are durable enough to withstand frequent washing. Choose from six colors and and eight sizes, including Full XL and Split King.
Keep in Mind
Brooklyn Bedding’s 120-night sleep trial only applies to the company’s mattresses, but you can return sheets within 30 days for a full refund with your receipt.
In a Nutshell
- Sheets are breathable, machine washable, and wrinkle- and pill-resistant for durability
- Moisture-wicking, lightweight sheets stay cool through the night
- Available in hard-to-find sizes like Full XL and Split King
Best Luxury: Parachute Percale Sheet Set
Parachute Percale Sheet Set
Premium sheets made from 100% Egyptian cotton for soft, lightweight luxury.
Why We Picked Them
The Parachute Percale Sheet Set includes premium sheets made from 100 percent Egyptian cotton. These sheets are crafted in a family-owned factory in Portugal and are lightweight and durable. The standard set includes a fitted sheet and a pillowcase, but you can upgrade to a set that includes a top sheet.
In addition to using premium Egyptian cotton, these sheets have been OKEO-TEX Standard 100 certified, meaning they have been tested and do not contain harmful substances or chemicals. Parachute does not artificially soften their fabrics, instead combing the cotton by hand to remove impurities and to naturally dye the sheets.
Keep in Mind
These sheets are more expensive than others, but remember that they are hand-combed and crafted from premium 100% Egyptian cotton.
In a Nutshell
- Made of premium 100% Egyptian cotton for a soft, breathable, crisp feel
- Sheets are made without artificial softeners and are hand-combed
- Choose whether or not you would like the set to include a top sheet
Best Linen: Tuft & Needle Linen Sheets
Tuft & Needle Linen Sheets
Natural linen makes for soft durability and a rumpled, lived-in look.
Why We Picked Them
The Tuft & Needle Linen Sheets offer a luxurious feel combined with durability. In fact, these sheets improve with time, getting softer for years. Linen is stronger than cotton and repels dirt, making these sheets a practical addition to any home. They also offer a rumpled, lived-in look. These sheets are made of Certified European Flax, which is more affordable than Belgian flax, and are crafted in India. They are OKEO-TEX Standard 100 certified against the use of harmful chemicals.
These linen sheets are breathable and lightweight when used alone, but stay warm underneath bedding for year-round use. The fitted sheet features extra-strong elastic and can accommodate mattresses up to 14”. These sheets are backed by a two-year material and workmanship warranty.
Keep in Mind
While you’ll pay more for these sheets than you might for other brands, think of it as an investment. These sheets are highly durable and get softer with time, so you can plan to use them for years to come.
In a Nutshell
- Linen sheets are stronger than cotton and repel dirt, getting softer with every use
- Sheets are breathable and light when used alone, but stay warm under bedding
- Sheets are backed by a two-year warranty
Best Flannel: Pinzon Signature Flannel Sheets
Pinzon Signature Flannel Sheets
Soft, flannel sheets provide warmth all winter long and at a great value.Check Price
Why We Picked Them
These sheets are made of 100 percent cotton, and with each set containing a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillowcases, you’re getting a great value for the price. The cotton yarn has been combed for increased strength and an ultra-smooth feel, and the 190-gram-per-square-meter heavyweight design highlights the durability and quality of these sheets. The cotton has been napped on both sides, further increasing these sheets’ softness.
You can choose from 11 different colors and patterns, and the sheets are available in Queen, King, and California King sizes. The fitted sheet’s elastic accommodates up to an 18” tall mattress and/or topper. These imported sheets are machine-washable for easy cleaning.
Keep in Mind
These sheets are currently only available in three different sizes, but with Queen, King, and California King available, they will still fit many mattresses.
In a Nutshell
- Imported sheets are made of 100% cotton
- Combed cotton yarn and napping on both sides contributes both strength and softness
- Fitted sheet accommodates a mattress up to 18” tall
How We Chose the Best Sheets
In choosing the best sheets, we weigh multiple factors to identify the very best products.
Material
We looked at how the material of each sheet contributes to a good night’s sleep. Is it soft and comfortable? Is it breathable, or will it retain heat in the summer? Different materials create different effects and feels, and each material has its own set of pros and cons. For instance, cotton is soft and breathable, but it’s not as durable as linen is. On the flip side, because linen is so breathable, it tends to be more expensive than cotton. Material also contributes to a sheet’s price, so this was a factor we weighed heavily in ranking our picks.
Durability
Sheets see plenty of use, and frequent washings can quickly tire out less durable sheets. We considered the durability of sheets, especially in comparison to their price. When you invest in a quality sheet set, you want to be able to use those sheets for years to come, and we’ve highlighted products that are durable enough to stand up to time and regular use.
Price
We also assessed these sheets by whether their price was justified. High-quality, durable sheets with desirable features like premium materials and luxury processes naturally bring higher prices, but when you consider how long those sheets last, they can be a better value than buying cheaper sheets that only last for a year.
Customer Satisfaction
We assessed both how various brands work to ensure customer satisfaction, as well as how people who had purchased those sheets responded in their reviews. Many of the brands we picked offered returns and warranties, demonstrating that they stand behind their products and value customer satisfaction.
Return Policy
We also ranked these products according to the availability of return policies. Most manufacturers will accept returns with a receipt within a certain time frame, so you can buy with confidence.
Bed Sheet Materials
Today, bed sheets are available in more material types than ever before, which means that you’ll have more choices when finding the sheets that will help you to get quality sleep. Because each material feels different and creates a different sleep experience in terms of breathability, temperature regulation, and moisture-wicking properties, you’ll need to find the material that matches your particular sleep preferences. The below details can help you to determine which materials may be best for your sheets, and which ones you may want to avoid.
Cotton
Cotton is made from a fiber that is grown on a cotton plant, and it can come from conventionally or organically grown crops. Cotton is one of the most common materials used in sheets and in clothing, and it’s available at many different price points, from budget to luxury. Cotton is soft and breathable, and it helps to regulate temperature. On the downside, cotton wrinkles easily and cheaper cotton sheets lack durability and can look “tired” after just a few washes.
Egyptian Cotton
Egyptian cotton is a more luxurious, premium type of cotton that is sourced from Egypt. Because the cotton plant grows in a hot, dry climate, the cotton fibers are longer which makes the material both smooth and soft. Egyptian cotton is stronger than traditional cotton, but because it is imported and in limited supply, it also costs more.
Polyester
Polyester sheets are made of synthetic material and they tend to be inexpensive. Polyester is durable and resistant to wrinkling, plus it can be machine washed. However, it can be stiff to the touch if used alone, so many sheets feature a polyester blend. Polyester can pill and it’s not highly breathable, so it isn’t a great choice for summertime sheets.
Flannel
Flannel is known for being a soft, warm material, and it can be made of wool, synthetic, or cotton fibers that have been combed up. Flannel helps to trap in body heat, making it ideal for cold winters. It doesn’t wrinkle, but it can pill.
Linen
Linen, which is woven with fibers from the flax plant, features extra-thick fibers that make the material highly durable. Linen is highly breathable and soft, and linen sheets become softer every time they’re washed. Because linen fibers are non-elastic, the fabric wrinkles very easily. These wrinkles give linen a distinctive appearance that some people like.
Bamboo
Crafted from fibers from the bamboo plant, bamboo fabric has a soft and silky feel. Bamboo wicks moisture away and is highly breathable, as well as both antibacterial and hypoallergenic. Bamboo sheets tend to cost more than others, and bamboo can wrinkle easily.
Silk
Silkworms naturally produce the silk fibers that are woven into silk fabric. Silk is known for its luxurious and soft feel. Silk is naturally hypoallergenic, insulates well, and absorbs moisture to keep you comfortable. With this luxury comes a higher price point, and because silk is delicate, it is recommended that you hand wash silk sheets.
Microfiber
Microfiber is a finely-woven polyester. This synthetic material can be very soft. Microfiber is hypoallergenic, naturally wrinkle-free, and stain-resistant, making it a popular choice for children’s bedding. While microfiber is durable and can be machine washed, it does pick up lint easily and can’t be ironed, because hot temperatures will melt the material.
Jersey
Jersey knit sheets are made of either 100 percent cotton or of a cotton and synthetic blend. They are known for being supremely soft and warm, making them a favorite option for winter. The material is knitted instead of woven and is naturally stretchy. While jersey knit adds both comfort and warmth to a bed, this material is prone to shrinking.
Other Considerations When Choosing Sheets
While material type contributes to a sheet’s performance and feel, there are some other points to consider when choosing sheets.
Weave
Sheets can be manufactured using many different types of weaves, and each weave offers different durability, breathability, stretch, and softness properties. The percale weave is one of the most common, and also one of the strongest weaves. It has a velvet-like feel and creates a cooler, breathable sheet. The sateen weave creates a smooth, silky finish and often allows for a high thread count. A twill weave creates a parallel rib pattern in the fabric and has a textured feel.
Natural or Organic Materials
Natural and organic materials, like silk or bamboo, are not only eco-friendly, but also are often manufactured without the use of chemicals, making for a safer sheet. These materials typically cost more. If you’re looking for a sheet made of natural materials, make sure that the manufacturer doesn’t use chemicals to process the fabric or when dyeing the sheets.
Set or Individual
Sheet sets typically include or fitted sheet to cover your mattress, a flat sheet, and one or two pillowcases, though the items included in a set can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. You can also purchase individual sheets and components, though usually you will pay less per piece if you buy the sheets as a set.
Return Policy
Despite your research, you may discover that the sheets you ordered online don’t feel like you’d thought they would. Most manufacturers will accept returns of unused sheet sets in their original packaging with a receipt, but verify the return policy before making a purchase.
The Best Thread Count for Sheets
Thread count refers to the number of threads that run vertically and horizontally through a square inch of material. Generally, higher thread counts mean that a sheet is softer, and that it will also wear well. Most quality sheets have thread counts between 200 and 800.
Sometimes, you’ll see thread counts of over 1,000, but you need to use caution before assuming that these very high thread counts indicate that a sheet is of superior quality. Manufacturers do have ways of inflating their thread counts for marketing purposes, such as by twisting multiple yarns together, without actually giving the sheets the quality that a true high thread count would provide.
The following are recommended thread counts for different material types:
- Cotton: 300 – 400
- Egyptian cotton: 400 – 700
- Polyester: 200 – 250
- Flannel: Flannel is measured by the weight of a square yard; 5 ounces per square yard is best
- Linen: 200 – 300
- Bamboo: 300 – 500
- Silk: Silk is measured by momme, which is a weight measurement. One momme is equivalent to 4.340 grams per square meter of fabric. Silk sheets should ideally be between 19 and 25 momme.
- Microfiber: 200 – 800
- Jersey: Jersey knit fabric is measured by its weight in ounces per square yard of fabric. A quality jersey sheet should weigh 9 – 14 ounces per square yard.
Remember, the weave can also affect a material’s feel, so don’t base your entire decision on a sheet’s thread count.
Related Resources
Once you’ve decided which sheets are right for you and your family, be sure to review the following resources to find the best pillows, comforters, and more to complete your bed.
