How do I choose which one is right for me? Whether it’s an inexpensive set that you can replace when you refresh the look of your bedroom, an expensive sheet that will last for years, or a specific material that allows you to feel cool or warm, sleep? Start with ingredients. Lexi Sachs, executive director of the Textiles, Paper, and Apparel Lab at New York’s Good Housekeeping Institute, says sheets made from cotton, a natural fiber that’s both soft and strong, are always a safe bet. “Ideal for those who want a natural, crisp feel,” she says.
We asked Fenton, Sachs, and Chicago-based interior designer April Gandy to share their favorite sheets. Here are their choices.
If you’re looking for sheets with a loose knit weave that’s thick, silky, and warm, consider cotton sateen sheets.Extensive lab testing confirms Brooklinen satin Luxe Core sheet set ($159-$239, Brooklinen.com) won the cotton category. “It feels solid and really smooth,” says Sachs.
Percale cotton sheets are lighter, firmer and more breathable than satin. Fenton is Plain Hemstitch Supima Percale Sheet sets ($59-$69 for a pair of pillowcases, $59-$99 for top sheet and fitted sheet, garnethill.com). “The quality of her garnet leeches is consistently high, and I prefer the hemstitch detail to the embroidery,” she says. (Supima is a brand of Pima cotton with long, uniform fibers and a luxurious feel.)
Flannel or brushed cotton sheets are brushed fibers that trap more air and feel warmer.Sax likes parachutes brushed cotton sheets ($100 to $110 for top sheets, $110 to $120 for fitted sheets, $59 to $69 for pillow cover sets, parachutehome.com). “They feel great and aren’t too hot,” she says.
Linen sheets are also becoming more popular, Sachs said.You can also find quality options from many brands, but they can be pricey.Fenton likes H&M washed linen fitted sheet Price ($74.99-$89.99, hm.com). “There are usually some neutral options and classy colors,” she says. Skip the top sheet, she says. linen duvet cover set ($129-$169, hm.com).
Another natural fiber option: hemp. “I predict we’ll see more of it as people get to know it better,” says Fenton.she likes Evenfall hemp sheet set ($370-$440, evenfallhome.com), stay cool, wash and wear “beautifully,” she says. Note, however, that these sets work well with deeper mattresses, and be wary of sheets advertised as using natural fibers from bamboo or eucalyptus, she says. warns Mr. Often, “there is no bamboo or eucalyptus within the fabric,” she says.
Gandy prefers microfiber. That’s because sheets made from polyester are cheaper, softer, and less prone to shrinkage and wrinkling than sheets made from natural fibers. “They aren’t very expensive or fancy,” she says. Gandy looks for them on Amazon or Target.she especially likes the target room essentials Classic White or Fun Patterned Sheet Sets ($9.50-$22, target.com). “Cost-Effective Sheets One of the things I love about her sets is that she lets you play with colors and patterns, so you can have a lot of variation,” she says. .
Fenton also recommends fitted sheets and duvets for children.I especially like her beddies Zipper All-in-one Bedding Set ($149.95-$309.95, bedys.com). A fitted sheet and zippered comforter are incorporated to make bedmaking even more efficient.
Lindsey M. Roberts is a freelance writer from North Carolina.
