Bedding is one of those things that we all need and yet once we go out to actually purchase it, beyond the sizing requirements it can be a confusing cornucopia of information.
What is it that you actually should be looking for? Is there such thing as a bargain sheet that will do the trick, or are pricey sheets worth their weight in zs?
Let’s demystify your bedding once and for all and take a look at the different options out there.
Material
Cotton is still the most popular as it is easy to care for, suitable through all seasons and comes in many price points.
100 per cent cotton is the general term for non-premium cotton.
Organic cotton is grown without pesticides and is the environmentally friendly choice that will cost you a little bit more and be a little harder to find, but hey you are helping the planet.
Bamboo is another eco-friendly choice. It is a hardy fast-growing Asian plant that can flourish without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. Bamboo-blend sheets (often mixed with cotton) are easy to care for and super soft.
Sea Island Cotton is grown in the West Indies and parts of the States. It feels silky to the touch and is considered by some to be the best in the world
Egyptian cotton in a word is luxury. It produces durable, soft sheets. There IS a difference.
Pima or Supima cotton is American-grown and known for its high quality.
Modal is a soft, durable fibre made from beech pulp, often blended with cotton.
Thread Count
The other main factor when selecting bed sheets is the thread count. Thread count refers to the quantity of threads woven into a square inch of the sheet’s fabric. Look for a minimum of 200, but no higher than 600 which may trap body heat and make you sweat.
Sheets falling within the thread count sweet spot of 280 to 400 will wear better and shrink less and have a breathable feel. So truly a good sweet spot when looking at thread count.
Weave type
If you like crisp sheets, go with percale weave. If you like soft, go with sateen.
- Standard weave is strong and even, one stitch over and one under
- Percale weave, used at thread counts of at least 200, is tighter and more crisp than standard
- Sateen sheets have more vertical than horizontal fibers, resulting in a very soft sheen, but is more likely to pill or tear
- Patterned weaves, like jacquard or damask, are very expensive but very durable
Cost
How much you ask? Well the great thing about sheets is that as long as you are well informed, great deals are out there, particularly online.
For a double bed sheet set you can spend from $25-$600 depending on your choice of quality.
Spend more or spend less? Your call but a good night’s sleep I think we can all agree…priceless!
