Thread Count
You’ve probably heard thread count (the number of vertical and horizontal threads per square inch) discussed when it comes to buying sheets. While some people believe a high thread count number means better quality and softer sheets, this isn’t always the case. According to the Sleep Foundation, you can find quality sheets with a thread count between 200 and 800.
Fabric
Sheets come in a variety of different materials, including cotton, bamboo, flannel, linen, silk, polyester, and microfiber.
Natalie Dautovich, PhD, an associate professor of psychology at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia, says it’s important to consider your individual preferences and comfort when selecting bedding materials. “Trying different fabrics, textures, and weave types can help to create a sleep environment that is tailored to your unique needs and help you sleep through the night,” she says.
In addition, Dr. Dautovich says sheets and bedding are just one part of creating a healthy environment for sleep. “Ultimately, a comfortable bedroom that is dark, quiet, and cool is ideal,” she says. Good sleep practices begin before your head hits the pillow.
If you’re looking for soft, breathable sheets that are also easy to clean, cotton and bamboo offer the best selection. “A cotton sheet will typically feel better to sleep on than a polyester one,” says Julia Dalton, design director of Fabricut Contract, a home furnishings distributor based in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Certification
Sheets that are certified by OEKO-TEX show that every aspect of the product has been tested for toxic chemicals (such as formaldehyde and harmful dyes) and deemed safe for human health.
Your Individual Needs
Before you start looking for sheets, you can narrow things down by asking yourself a few key questions first:
- Do you run hot or cold at night? If so, fabrics like cotton, linen, and bamboo are breathable and insulating all year round.
- Do you have allergies? Certified organic or sustainably produced natural fibers like cotton, linen, and bamboo are often the best choices, but look for sheets that are labeled “hypoallergenic.”
- Do you have sensory issues? Those with textile sensitivity often prefer fabrics like soft cotton, bamboo, and linen.
