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The Spruce / Henry Wortock
High-quality cotton sheets are comfortable and durable, so you can look forward to sleeping on them for a long time. While there are many qualities in sheets to look at such as weave type and thread count, your personal comfort outweighs anything else.
"I’ve been selling bedding to people now for six years, and I really think it does all come down to personal preference," says Anna Brakefield, the co-founder of Red Land Cotton. "When it comes to being happy at the end of the day, we’re going to be looking at texture and sleeping temperature.” Brakefield says that keeping your sleeping style in mind while shopping for sheets will also lead to finding a set of sheets that work best for you.
Over the last five years, we've spent hours researching and testing cotton sheets from the most popular bedding brands, putting them through their paces in The Lab and in our homes for approximately six weeks. During our testing process, we evaluated each cotton sheet by its quality, texture, breathability, durability, and value.
Best Overall
Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set
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Amazon
Buttery smooth texture
Gets softer with each wash
Variety of colors
Contemporary design
Expensive
Color and pattern combinations limited
Want to take your bedding up a notch? The Luxe Core Set by Brooklinen is hands down your best bet. From the shop that specializes in fine linens, you’d be hard-pressed to find a site that doesn’t note these as one of the most luxe options around.
The four-piece set is made from a 480-thread count in a soft sateen weave for an ultra-deluxe feel, which makes sense given that they’re part of the brand's Premium Line. Since they’re constructed of long-staple cotton, these Oeko Tex-certified sheets are heavier and more durable than your average cotton sheets. Boasting an exceptionally luxurious texture, these sheets felt like a cozy, soft cocoon. And even though they’re made with breathable cotton, they still feel sturdy—which makes them more versatile during colder months. They're available in a variety of neutral colors and patterns, along with an ongoing rotation of limited-edition hues.
During our tests, we found these sheets to be a standout for their buttery smoothness and breathability (especially useful in the warmer months!). Wash after wash, the sheets maintained their quality and even got softer and more comfortable with use. However, given their steep price, we did deduct a point for overall value.
Price at time of publish: $189 for Queen Size
Weave: Sateen | Thread Count: 480 | Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry
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The Spruce / Avery Stone
Best Budget
Better Homes & Gardens 400 Thread Count Hygro Cotton Bed Sheet Set
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Walmart
Soft and cozy texture
Highly breathable
Sturdy construction
Not as cooling as some other options we tested
If you’re looking for high-quality bedding at an affordable price point, we recommend the Better Homes & Gardens 400 Thread Count Hygro Cotton Bed Sheet Set. This set performed exceptionally well during both our lab tests and at-home tests, and at under-$75 for a queen-sized set, these sheets are a steal. The texture of these sheets was lightweight and softer than many of the other options we tested. They have a brushed surface, so the lifted fibers make them cozier than a typical percale but less silky than sateen.
We were impressed with the high-quality construction of these sheets, as they had a medium weight and felt well-made and sturdy. And while we didn’t find these sheets to be especially cooling, we did love the amount of breathability they provided throughout the night. This makes them suitable for all-season use, as they’ll keep you warm without becoming too stuffy. Over the course of six weeks, these sheets held up exceptionally well, with no color fading or visible signs of wear. Despite the low price point of this sheet set, its performance was up to par with many of the other luxury and high-end options on the market.
Price at time of publish: $55 for Queen Size
Weave: Not listed | Thread Count: 400 | Sizes: Full, Queen, King | Certifications: None listed | Care: Machine wash warm, tumble dry low
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The Spruce / Henry Wortock
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Best Splurge
Boll & Branch Reserve Sheet Set
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Boll & Branch
Dense, sturdy construction
High-quality workmanship
Silky smooth texture
Durable
Expensive
Considering just how much time we spend in our beds, you may want to consider investing in some high-end sheets. The Boll & Branch Reserve Sheet Set is definitely a splurge, but it’s also the best of the best. The sheet set is made with 100 percent long-staple cotton that's Fair Trade, GOTS, and Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex certified. The fabric feels dense, silky, and very pleasant to the touch. The soft and thicker texture made for a luxurious sleeping experience that we couldn’t get enough of. The workmanship of the sheets was also highly impressive, as all of the stitching and seams were top-notch quality and there were no visible imperfections to be found.
Despite the heaviness of the material, the sheets still felt exceptionally breathable. They’re not necessarily cooling, but they’ll provide enough airflow to keep you comfortable throughout the night. Over the course of six weeks and numerous washes, we found that the quality has not depleted and the sheets feel as good as new. So although this sheet set comes at a steep price we’re confident that you’ll be able to see and feel its luxury for years to come.
Price at time of publish: $498 for Queen Size
Weave: Not listed | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Split King | Certifications: Fair Trade, GOTS, OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash gentle cycle with cold water, tumble dry low
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The Spruce / Henry Wortock
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The Spruce / Henry Wortock
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The Spruce / Henry Wortock
Best Percale
Parachute Percale Sheet Set
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Parachute
No shrinkage after washing
Cool to the touch
Lightweight
Top sheet comes at an additional cost
Percale cotton features a closely woven plain-weave fabric that appears noticeably tighter than other materials. This results in a soft pair of sheets that stand the test of time and appear crisp and attractive. Right out of the box, our tester noticed that the Parachute Percale Sheet Set felt cool to the touch with minimal loose ends.
The sheets feel softer than other cotton sheets, while not quite silky like other fabrics feel. Our tester noted that this set felt breathable through the night and held up beautifully after washing, with no shrinkage or signs of wear. "The sheets are expensive, but the quality is high and the texture is soft and cozy," said our tester, "I also like that they're Oeko-Tex certified." That's right: In addition to washing and wearing nicely, these percale cotton sheets are also free of harmful or toxic substances. Plus, Parachute uses climate-neutral shipping on every order.
Price at time of publish: $129 for a Twin Set
Weave: Percale | Thread Count: Not Listed | Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Certifications: OEKO-TEK Standard 100 | Care: Machine-wash
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Best High-Thread Count
Mayfair Linen Hotel Collection
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Amazon
High thread count
Deep pockets
Crisp appearance
Deep creases and odor when first opened
Get that hotel-quality feel you love, right in your own home. Mayfair's Linen Hotel Collection sheet set is made from 100 percent Egyptian Cotton yarns to keep your comfort top of mind, even when you aren’t traveling. With an 800-thread count, they ensure a super-soft luxurious feel that’ll keep you at ease for all nights ahead, making them a favorite among all the cotton sheets we’ve tested.
All of the brand’s sheets come with a 4-inch hem and are tailored with deep pockets to enhance your bedroom decor. The long-staple Egyptian cotton fabric wicks away moisture to keep you cool through the night, with a crisp, hotel-like appearance that we absolutely loved. Straight out of the package, they feel very thick, crisp, and cool to the touch—like a freshly made hotel bed.
Just note to make sure to wash the sheets before using: Upon unpacking the sheets, we found them to have an unpleasant odor and deep creases. While the scent dissipated after washing, it was hard to keep the wrinkles at bay. This led us to dock one point on durability, quality, and overall value.
Price at time of publish: $50 for Queen Size
Weave: Sateen | Thread Count: 800 | Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash
Best Cashmere
Brooklinen Heathered Cashmere Core Sheet Set
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Brooklinen
Textured look
Breathable
Machine washes well
May be prone to pilling
Expensive
Brooklinen takes the comfy Core Sheet Set to the next level with this Heathered Cashmere version, which is soft, cozy, and perfect for chilly weather. Made from a blend of cotton and cashmere, the sheets are breathable and warm without feeling hot and heavy. The fabric has a diagonal twill weave, which creates a heathered look, and they're brushed for extra softness. Plus, they only get softer with every wash.
The luxe sheet set comes in a range of sizes and includes a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and two pillowcases. You can choose from a selection of classic colors, like white or cream, or opt for a bold color like limited-edition shades ink blue and rust. Just note that the cashmere cotton can pill easily, although these sheets are pretty simple and straightforward to care for.
Price at time of publish: $263 for Queen Size
Weave: Diagonal | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry
Best Lightweight
Casper Percale Sheet Set
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Casper
Lasting crisp feel
Light and breathable
Durable
Prone to wrinkles
Relax in the cool comfort of Casper's light Percale Sheet Set, which we especially love for sleepers who are prone to overheating. These 100 percent organic cotton sheets help cool you down with great breathability, all while feeling light against your skin. During our tests, we loved their airy nature and found these sheets helped prevent middle-of-the-night wake-ups due to a rising body temperature.
While these crisp and nicely breathable percale cotton sheets are thin, they're also surprisingly durable. The fabric holds up well with regular use and washing, and it'll even withstand tougher wear and tear. When we brought the sheets home, we were impressed with how well these sheets held up in a household with pets. Not only were they completely resistant to snagging, but they were also easy to clean.
However, you'll want to make sure to remove these sheets from the dryer ASAP after each wash. We noticed that they became incredibly wrinkly, and leaving them in a bundle may mean they need the wrinkles ironed out when you're ready to make the bed.
Price at time of publish: $139 for Queen Size
Weave: Percale | Thread Count: 300 | Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Certifications: None | Care: Machine wash warm, tumble dry low
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The Spruce / Rachel Marek
Best Organic
Nest Bedding Sateen Organic Cotton Sheet Set
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Nest Bedding
High-quality construction
Soft and smooth texture
Lightweight and cooling
Gets softer with every wash
May be prone to wrinkles
You can rest easy knowing you’re sleeping on soft, 100 percent organic cotton sateen with the Nest Bedding Sateen Organic Cotton Luxury Sheet Set. The set is made with 100 percent certified organic cotton and boasts Fair Trade certification, so it’s manufactured in accordance with rigorous social, environmental, and economic standards. And these organic cotton fibers also make for a cozy night's sleep, as we loved the soft and smooth texture of the sheets. What’s more, they only got softer with each wash. Perfect for warmer nights, we found that these sheets had a lightweight construction and offered a ton of breathability. During our real-world tests, we found that these sheets were very cooling and provided a ton of airflow to stay comfortable throughout the night.
In addition to the sheet set’s luxurious texture, we were also impressed with the overall workmanship quality of the product, as it fits nicely over the bed. When testing for durability, we noticed that the sheets held up fairly well even when rubbing them with sandpaper. And while these sheets held up well in the wash with no signs of wear, we did notice quite a few wrinkles after following the care instructions. All in all, we think the high-quality materials, comfortable texture, and lightweight construction of these sheets justify the price point.
Price at time of publish: $146 for Queen Size
Weave: Sateen | Thread Count: 300 | Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Certifications: Organic and Fair Trade | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
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The Spruce / Henry Wortock
Best Durable
Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set
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Parachute
Buttery-soft texture
Highly durable
Breathable construction
May be prone to wrinkles
Of all the sheets we tested, we’re confident the Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set will last the test of time and withstand quite a bit of wear and tear. Upon arrival, we were impressed with the texture of these sheets, as they had a smooth, crisp feel and a medium weight. They felt softer than many of the other options we tested, which is due to the brushed surface. The quality workmanship was also immediately evident, as the sheets were in perfect condition with no signs of wear. In terms of breathability, these sheets were great at allowing adequate airflow and regulating body temperature. They aren’t overly stuffy but won’t feel chilly at night either, making them a great pick for year-round use.
Throughout the duration of our long-term tests, we found that these sheets held up exceptionally well and felt as good as new after six weeks. And after abrading the sheets with sandpaper, there was no pilling, thinning, or loose threads evident in the area. So if you’re in the market for sheets that will last you for years to come, the Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set is definitely worth the splurge.
Price at time of publish: $169 for Queen Size (no top sheet)
Weave: Not listed | Thread Count: None listed | Sizes: Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine washable
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The Spruce / Henry Wortock
Best Value
California Design Den 600 Thread Count 100% Cotton Sheets Set
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Amazon
High thread count
Breathable and airy
Substantial thickness
Not the most durable
For sheets that will give you the most bang for your buck, we love the California Design Den 5-Star Hotel 600 Thread Count 100% Cotton Sheets Set, which offers a ton of value at a moderate price point. During our tests, we found the sheets to be extremely smooth and soft with a luxury, hotel-quality feel. They had a medium weight and a substantial thickness that was neither overly heavy nor thin. We appreciated their cozy and comfortable texture that would be suitable for year-round use.
We also were pleasantly surprised by the product’s breathability, as we noticed that they regulate body temperature very well. Over the course of six weeks and multiple washes, there were no signs of wear or color fading, and the sheets held up very well all things considered. However, in our lab tests, we did find that the sandpaper ripped a hole through the sheets, which may not be a positive indicator of its durability. However, with proper care and attention, we think that its sturdy texture will help maintain its lifespan. And at just $80 for a queen-sized set, these sheets are a solid option to add to your rotation.
Price at time of publish: $80 for Queen Size
Weave: Sateen | Thread Count: 600 | Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Certifications: Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
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The Spruce / Henry Wortock
Softest
The Citizenry Organic Resort Cotton Sheet Set
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The Citizenry
Soft and silky texture
Lightweight and airy
Highly durable
Pricey
If softness is your top priority when shopping for cotton sheets, then look no further than The Citizenry Organic Resort Cotton Sheet Set. These sheets are among the highest-quality cotton sheets we’ve tested, and they performed exceptionally well in both our lab and at-home tests. The 400-thread-count sheets are made with 100 percent organic long-staple Turkish cotton, giving them a buttery-smooth texture straight out of the package. The Citizenry uses a proprietary weave that we found light, airy, and smooth—a bit more like sateen than percale. The high-quality construction of these sheets was evident by the reinforced seams, surged edges, and understitch reinforcement.
We were also impressed by the durability of the product, as all stains were completely removed after spot treatment. Likewise, these sheets withstood the abrasion test well, as there was very little indication that the sheet had been thinned or compromised. And over the course of six weeks, the sheets held up very nicely, maintaining their texture and quality very well. We also love that the product is OEKO-TEX, GOTS, and Fair Trade certified so you can feel good about your purchase. And while they may come at a hefty price, we think it’s worth it for those looking for an incredibly soft, lightweight, and durable sheet set that will last you for years to come.
Price at time of publish: $249 for Queen Size
Weave: Not listed | Thread Count: 400 | Sizes: Full, Queen, King | Certifications: OEKO-TEX, GOTS, Fair Trade | Care: Machine wash gentle cycle with cold water, tumble dry low
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The Spruce / Henry Wortock
Compare
Overall Rating | Quality | Texture | Durability | Value | Breathability | ||
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Best Overall:
Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set
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Amazon | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 5 | |
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Best Budget:
Better Homes & Gardens Hygro Cotton Bed Sheet Set
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Walmart | 4.8 | 5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5 | |
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Best Splurge:
Boll & Branch Reserve Sheet Set
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Bloomingdales | 5 | 5 | 4.8 | 4 | 4.3 | |
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Best Percale :
Parachute Percale Sheet Set
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Parachute | 4 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | |
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Best High-Thread Count:
Mayfair Linen Hotel Collection
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Amazon | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | |
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Best Cashmere:
Brooklinen Heathered Cashmere Core Sheet Set
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Brooklinen | ||||||
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Best Lightweight:
Casper Percale Sheet Set
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Amazon | 4 | 3 | 5 | 4.5 | 4 | |
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Best Organic:
Nest Bedding Sateen Organic Cotton Sheet Set
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Nest Bedding | 5 | 5 | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4 | |
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Best Durable:
Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set
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Parachute | 4.8 | 5 | 4.8 | 4.5 | 5 | |
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Best Value:
California Design Den Cotton Sheets Set
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Amazon | 3.8 | 4.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 5 | |
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Softest:
The Citizenry Organic Cotton Sheet Set
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The-citizenry.com | 4.5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 | 4 |
Made from 100 percent long-staple cotton with a buttery-soft weave, the Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set is our top choice for comfort and style. For a more affordable option, we love the Better Homes & Gardens 400 Thread Count Hygro Cotton Bed Sheet Set at Walmart, which is highly breathable, boasts a soft and cozy texture, and feels exceptionally well made.
How We Tested the Sheets
After researching the most beloved, top-rated cotton sheets currently on the market, we gathered the best options and put them to the test in The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa. Our testers evaluated them on the basis of quality by inspecting the cotton sheets both before and after following the care instructions. We looked for any loose threads, pilling, snags, and imperfections in the stitching, dye, or pattern. We also noted any specifics about each cotton sheet, including the fiber quality, thread count, and weave. Additionally, we tested for any crocking, or color transfer in the lab. Next, we assessed the texture of each cotton sheet, considering its thickness, weight, softness, structure, and smoothness. At that point, we made the bed with the cotton sheets, observing how snugly the fitted sheet fit over the mattress, whether there was shifting or bunching, and how it draped over the bed. We also paid special attention to the depth of the fitted sheet and whether or not there was any excess fabric hanging over the sides.
We then tested the sheets’ breathability by having our testers lay underneath them and seeing how much airflow the sheet allowed through. We also placed a drop of water in the middle of the sheet to see how moisture-wicking the material was, by observing how quickly and how much the water dispersed over the area. To evaluate the durability of each cotton sheet, we performed a spill test and poured coffee, oil, and foundation over each sheet, noting how easy the stain was to remove and whether or not we could tell that it had been stained previously. We also carefully followed care instructions and judged whether there were any signs of wear, imperfections, wrinkles, or shrinkage post-wash. We used a sanding block to abrade the area and took note of the quality of that section. Finally, we assessed the cotton sheets’ value by comparing their retail prices with their overall quality.
In addition to our standard in-lab testing, we conducted long-term home testing in order to see how the cotton sheets held up over time, checking in after six weeks. For long-term testing, we took the lab-tested cotton sheet sets and sent them to our volunteer testers' houses to note how they performed in real-world situations. We asked our home testers to consider not only the quality, texture, breathability, durability, and value, but also how (if at all) the sheets enhanced their day-to-day lives. Testers also considered how the sheets changed in texture after consistent washes, their sleep quality during those six weeks, and whether or not they would recommend the products to a friend or family member. We analyzed our testers’ scores and insights, along with our supplemental research, to compile this list of the 12 cotton sheets we believe are the best.
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The Spruce / Karen Tietjen
What to Look for in Cotton Sheets
Type
Cotton sheets are known for being soft, breathable, and affordable. But if you want the best of the best, choose extra-long staple cotton like Egyptian or Pima cotton, which are considered premium options. You can also look for eco-minded options, like sheets made with 100 percent organic cotton and cotton that meets GOTS or OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification requirements.
Thread Count
A higher thread count isn’t always better, since thread count can be manipulated during the manufacturing process. Most of these options we tested fall between 200 and 400. This makes for the softest, most breathable cotton sheets. Our best organic pick, the Pottery Barn Classic 400-Thread-Count Organic Percale Sheet Set, has a thread count of 400 and is made with a breathable percale weave for a cool, comfortable night's sleep.
"Anything above 500 thread count is probably just a falsehood," says Anna Brakefield, the co-founder of Red Land Cotton. She adds that a thread count above 500 is no longer an indication of softness and quality, as it's usually achieved by counting twists in the yarn, rather than threads per square inch of fabric.
Weave
The majority of our picks fall under two weave options: percale and sateen. If you like lighter, crisper sheets, choose percale. If you prefer smooth and silky sheets, try sateen instead. Just note you’ll pay a premium for sateen since it’s a more complicated weave, but our testers love the shiny look of this pick best.
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What is the best type of cotton for sheets?
There are several types of cotton that are commonly used for sheets. Not all cotton is created equally, so you’ll want to consider your preferences and budget when shopping for cotton sheets. Supima cotton is a luxury, soft cotton grown in the southwest region of America. To receive the Supima name, the cotton must have been sourced through a specific supply chain. Egyptian cotton sheets are made of long, fine fibers to give the sheets their softness. This type of sheet is also durable and will wash well. In general, look for sheets made with high-quality cotton fibers, a medium to high thread count, and your favorite weave.
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What is the best type of weave for cotton sheets?
There are a number of different weaves that will create different textures and looks in cotton sheets, so it’s mostly up to personal preference. Percale sheets are very popular and known for their crisp, lightweight texture and cooling properties. Sateen is also a great choice for those who prefer an exceptionally smooth surface with a lustrous finish. Jersey sheets are ideal for who love a stretchy and soft fabric with temperature control. Understanding what you’re looking for in sheets can help you narrow down your decision.
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How do you soften cotton sheets?
There are a few ways to soften up new bed sheets. Brakefield recommends washing cotton sheets—or any natural fiber sheet—with cold water and drying them on a low heat setting to ensure the fibers maintain their strength over time. "What I always say is during that cold and flu season, if you want to do a quick warm wash, then you can expect a little shrinkage, but maybe try to air dry afterward," says Brakefield. She also recommends avoiding fabric softener, which can also degrade cotton fibers. "Something I really like to use in my laundry washes, especially during cold and flu season, is a cup of white vinegar," she says. "It’ll kill germs just as well as bleach and it's natural and won’t harm your fabric.” Keep in mind that cotton sheets will also naturally soften after several washes.
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The Spruce / Hannah Huber
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Bianca Pineda, a commerce writer who specializes in bedding, bath, and home decor at The Spruce. To compile this list, she consulted lab and at-home testing insights, assessed numerous customer reviews, and conducted supplemental research about the topic. All of the products in this roundup met our quality standards during the research process and performed the best during our tests. Cristina Sanza, a lifestyle writer specializing in home products and organization hacks, contributed additional reporting for this article.
Emma Phelps, an Updates Writer for The Spruce, also offered support for this roundup by speaking to Anna Brakefield, the co-founder of Red Land Cotton, a family-owned and operated bedding business. Brakefield offers a unique, expert perspective on bedding by having previous professional experience in marketing and branding and working on her family's North Alabama cotton farm, which supplies all of the fibers for Red Land Cotton's bedding.
What is The Spruce Approved?
Here at The Spruce, we want to ensure that we fully stand behind every product we recommend and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all of these products ourselves, though occasionally we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut.