A Guide to Cotton Sheets—and How to Choose the Right Fiber and Thread Count for You

Many bed linens are made from cotton—the soft, breathable, and lightweight material is ideal for creating optimal sleeping conditions. But with so many options on the market, selecting the correct brand or cotton style can be difficult. After all, there are plenty of factors to take into consideration, many of which go beyond the conventional markers of color, size, and thread count. To help you find the best possible cotton sheets for your needs, we're sharing a few key things to keep in mind as you shop.

Types of Cotton Sheets

There are different types of cotton sheets. Knowing what sets them apart can help you find a set that is right for you.

Egyptian Cotton

Egyptian cotton sheets are made with extra-long staple cotton, making them more durable and breathable than regular cotton sheets. "Egyptian cotton also tends to be much softer right out of the package and will only get softer over time—a lot like your favorite t-shirt," says Tom Ryan, product director at Sleep Foundation.

Supima Cotton

An American-made, extra-long staple cotton, sheets made from Supima cotton feature fine threads that translate to a durable and soft set of sheets. "They will run you a little more money overall, but they should last longer than a traditional cotton sheet," says Ryan.

Organic Cotton

Sheets made from organic cotton must meet certain environmental requirements and are a great pick if you want ethically sourced materials. "For example, the plants cannot be grown using GMO seeds, and farmers must avoid using chemical pesticides and fertilizers," says Ryan. "Look for certifications from the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), or another certifying agency that holds farmers and manufacturers to strict criteria."

Jersey Cotton

Jersey cotton sheets are known for being soft and stretchy. "The knitted feel gives them a cozy, lived-in look," says Ryan. "We like jersey sheets because they’re breathable, resist wrinkles, and are overall quite low-maintenance."

Flannel

Flannel sheets are made by napping the cotton after it's been woven. "Napping raises the fibers to give the fabric a soft, fuzzy, and cozy feel," says Ryan. "Flannel sheets are a great pick for cool or cold winter nights because they provide additional warmth, and they often come in a variety of fun and striking prints, too."

Percale vs. Sateen Weave

There are two main weave patterns to consider when choosing sheets, and the one you choose ultimately comes down to personal preference.

• Percale: Percale is a plain weave that makes for a cool hand feel and has a matte finish that's reminiscent of crisp hotel sheets. "If you’re a hot sleeper or prefer a crispy, cool sheet, we recommend a percale weave," says Katie Elks, design director for Brooklinen.  
• Sateen: Sateen is a satin weave, which makes for a smoother hand feel and creates a slight sheen. "If you want a warmer sheet and are looking for something a little more buttery with a smoother hand feel, we recommend sateen," says Elks.

Consider Thread Count

Thread count refers to the total number of threads found within a 1 square-inch section, says Ryan, adding that consumers should take this number with a grain of salt. It is often difficult for consumers to notice count variations, and sometimes, brands inflate thread count to denote a higher quality. When in doubt, select a set with a mid-range thread count, which will give you the softness, durability, and high-end appearance many people crave, says Leana Salamah, vice president of marketing for the International Housewares Association. Anything between 200 to 400 is usually a safe bet.

Measure the Depth of Your Mattress

Once you've decided on the specifics of the cotton you want, don't forget to measure the depth of your mattress before choosing a sheet set. "We tend to buy sheets on good faith regarding size because mattress sizes are supposedly standard," Salamah says. However, it doesn't have so much to do with the length and width of your bed, but the depth. "Measure the depth of your mattress with any added pieces (like pads or toppers) and note the depth measurements in any sheet purchase," she says.