After Testing Hundreds of Sheets, These Are the Softest Ones We've Slept On

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Dera Burreson

People / Dera Burreson

Sleep is such a personal thing, so the sheets that help you rest the best can vary from person to person.“Each sheet material has its unique benefits, and the best choice depends on individual preferences, climate, and desired sleep experience,” celebrity interior designerMikel Welchtells PEOPLE. According to Welch, when choosing the best sheets, you should “consider factors like breathability, softness, durability, and cooling properties to find the perfect fit for a restful and comfortable night’s sleep.”While some prefercozy flanneland others will always opt forcooling bamboo sheets, we can all agree: There’s nothing like falling into a fresh set of super soft sheets to kickstart a relaxing night’s sleep (or Sunday afternoon nap).Keep reading for the softest sheets on the market, according to our testing.Our Top PicksOlive + Crate Eucalyptus Sheet Set at Amazon$190Jump to ReviewBampure Organic Bamboo Sheets at Amazon$110Jump to ReviewCozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set at Amazon$359Jump to ReviewParachute Linen Sheet Set at Nordstrom$319Jump to ReviewLanest Housing Silk Satin Sheets at Amazon$32Jump to ReviewParachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set at Parachute$269Jump to ReviewCoyuchi Cloud Brushed Flannel Sheets at Amazon$198Jump to Review

Sleep is such a personal thing, so the sheets that help you rest the best can vary from person to person.

“Each sheet material has its unique benefits, and the best choice depends on individual preferences, climate, and desired sleep experience,” celebrity interior designerMikel Welchtells PEOPLE. According to Welch, when choosing the best sheets, you should “consider factors like breathability, softness, durability, and cooling properties to find the perfect fit for a restful and comfortable night’s sleep.”

While some prefercozy flanneland others will always opt forcooling bamboo sheets, we can all agree: There’s nothing like falling into a fresh set of super soft sheets to kickstart a relaxing night’s sleep (or Sunday afternoon nap).

Keep reading for the softest sheets on the market, according to our testing.

Our Top PicksOlive + Crate Eucalyptus Sheet Set at Amazon$190Jump to ReviewBampure Organic Bamboo Sheets at Amazon$110Jump to ReviewCozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set at Amazon$359Jump to ReviewParachute Linen Sheet Set at Nordstrom$319Jump to ReviewLanest Housing Silk Satin Sheets at Amazon$32Jump to ReviewParachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set at Parachute$269Jump to ReviewCoyuchi Cloud Brushed Flannel Sheets at Amazon$198Jump to Review

Olive + Crate Eucalyptus Sheet Set at Amazon$190Jump to ReviewBampure Organic Bamboo Sheets at Amazon$110Jump to ReviewCozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set at Amazon$359Jump to ReviewParachute Linen Sheet Set at Nordstrom$319Jump to ReviewLanest Housing Silk Satin Sheets at Amazon$32Jump to ReviewParachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set at Parachute$269Jump to ReviewCoyuchi Cloud Brushed Flannel Sheets at Amazon$198Jump to Review

Olive + Crate Eucalyptus Sheet Set at Amazon$190Jump to Review

Olive + Crate Eucalyptus Sheet Set at Amazon$190

Bampure Organic Bamboo Sheets at Amazon$110Jump to Review

Bampure Organic Bamboo Sheets at Amazon$110

Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set at Amazon$359Jump to Review

Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set at Amazon$359

Parachute Linen Sheet Set at Nordstrom$319Jump to Review

Parachute Linen Sheet Set at Nordstrom$319

Lanest Housing Silk Satin Sheets at Amazon$32Jump to Review

Lanest Housing Silk Satin Sheets at Amazon$32

Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set at Parachute$269Jump to Review

Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set at Parachute$269

Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Flannel Sheets at Amazon$198Jump to Review

Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Flannel Sheets at Amazon$198

Olive + Crate Eucalyptus Sheet SetPHOTO: Amazon$190 at AmazonStar QualitiesMade a noticeable difference in our sleep qualityUltra-soft and silky fabricFabric is easy to washRed FlagsSheets take longer to dryWhen considering the best cooling sheets on the market, we looked at a range of tests we had performed on around 114 sheets to see which materials were the best for hot sleepers. The Olive + Crate Cooling Eucalyptus Sheets impressed us with their ability to cool folks off — that, combined with an ultra-soft texture, breathable material, and overall durability.Earning a perfect score in each of our tests, the eucalyptus sheets showed an impressive design without obvious imperfections. They washed well (though they shrunk just the tiniest bit) and showed no signs of loose threads or snags afterward. The most obvious benefit of these sheets, however, is the cooling effect of the material. Our team loved how lightweight and breathable the sheets were, and they were noticeably cooler when lying on these sheets rather than other basic fabrics.How They’ve Held UpWe sent the sheets home with testers for three months to see how well they lived up to our lab results. Our testers, both of whom run hot, said the sheets become a permanent part of the bedding rotation. The silky nature of the fabric makes these sheets a dream to sleep on. The only complaint was that the sheets take longer to dry than other materials, but that’s hardly a dealbreaker for a cool night’s sleep.Material:Tencel fiber eucalyptus lyocell |Sizes:Twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king |Colors:14PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People / Dera BurresonExperts SayDo cooling sheets make a difference? Welch says yes. “Cooling sheets can make a difference, especially for those who tend to get hot during sleep.” He adds that they can wick away moisture and help your body maintain a balanced and comfortable temperature, making them a great year-round option.

Olive + Crate Eucalyptus Sheet SetPHOTO: Amazon$190 at Amazon

Olive + Crate Eucalyptus Sheet Set

PHOTO: Amazon

$190 at Amazon

Star QualitiesMade a noticeable difference in our sleep qualityUltra-soft and silky fabricFabric is easy to washRed FlagsSheets take longer to dry

Star QualitiesMade a noticeable difference in our sleep qualityUltra-soft and silky fabricFabric is easy to wash

Made a noticeable difference in our sleep quality

Ultra-soft and silky fabric

Fabric is easy to wash

Red FlagsSheets take longer to dry

Sheets take longer to dry

When considering the best cooling sheets on the market, we looked at a range of tests we had performed on around 114 sheets to see which materials were the best for hot sleepers. The Olive + Crate Cooling Eucalyptus Sheets impressed us with their ability to cool folks off — that, combined with an ultra-soft texture, breathable material, and overall durability.

Earning a perfect score in each of our tests, the eucalyptus sheets showed an impressive design without obvious imperfections. They washed well (though they shrunk just the tiniest bit) and showed no signs of loose threads or snags afterward. The most obvious benefit of these sheets, however, is the cooling effect of the material. Our team loved how lightweight and breathable the sheets were, and they were noticeably cooler when lying on these sheets rather than other basic fabrics.

How They’ve Held UpWe sent the sheets home with testers for three months to see how well they lived up to our lab results. Our testers, both of whom run hot, said the sheets become a permanent part of the bedding rotation. The silky nature of the fabric makes these sheets a dream to sleep on. The only complaint was that the sheets take longer to dry than other materials, but that’s hardly a dealbreaker for a cool night’s sleep.

How They’ve Held Up

We sent the sheets home with testers for three months to see how well they lived up to our lab results. Our testers, both of whom run hot, said the sheets become a permanent part of the bedding rotation. The silky nature of the fabric makes these sheets a dream to sleep on. The only complaint was that the sheets take longer to dry than other materials, but that’s hardly a dealbreaker for a cool night’s sleep.

Material:Tencel fiber eucalyptus lyocell |Sizes:Twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king |Colors:14

PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People / Dera Burreson

Experts SayDo cooling sheets make a difference? Welch says yes. “Cooling sheets can make a difference, especially for those who tend to get hot during sleep.” He adds that they can wick away moisture and help your body maintain a balanced and comfortable temperature, making them a great year-round option.

Experts Say

Do cooling sheets make a difference? Welch says yes. “Cooling sheets can make a difference, especially for those who tend to get hot during sleep.” He adds that they can wick away moisture and help your body maintain a balanced and comfortable temperature, making them a great year-round option.

Bampure Organic Bamboo SheetsPHOTO: Amazon$110 at AmazonStar QualitiesBamboo viscose offers a cool touch for hot sleepersSheets got softer with each washDeep-pocket sheets fit over plush mattressesRed FlagsTend to get wrinkly after washingIf you’re looking for quality bamboo sheets, Bampure Organic Bamboo Sheets offer a silky texture and cooling abilities. Bamboo sheets almost feel like a mix of cotton and satin sheets, offering breathability with a buttery smooth finish — and these sheets met those expectations. The design impressed our team with solid stitching and a deep pocket that made for an easy fit aroundany mattress, including anair mattress.In testing the performance, we learned that the bamboo sheets could be washed without issue. No loose threads or shrinkage occurred, though the material was wrinkly afterward. It also continued getting softer after each wash, ensuring longevity and continued comfort over time. Between the quality and the cooling effect, which can be a bonus for hot sleepers, these bamboo sheets are a great choice all around.Material:Bamboo viscose |Sizes:Twin, full, queen, king, California king |Colors:7PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson

Bampure Organic Bamboo SheetsPHOTO: Amazon$110 at Amazon

Bampure Organic Bamboo Sheets

$110 at Amazon

Star QualitiesBamboo viscose offers a cool touch for hot sleepersSheets got softer with each washDeep-pocket sheets fit over plush mattressesRed FlagsTend to get wrinkly after washing

Star QualitiesBamboo viscose offers a cool touch for hot sleepersSheets got softer with each washDeep-pocket sheets fit over plush mattresses

Bamboo viscose offers a cool touch for hot sleepers

Sheets got softer with each wash

Deep-pocket sheets fit over plush mattresses

Red FlagsTend to get wrinkly after washing

Tend to get wrinkly after washing

If you’re looking for quality bamboo sheets, Bampure Organic Bamboo Sheets offer a silky texture and cooling abilities. Bamboo sheets almost feel like a mix of cotton and satin sheets, offering breathability with a buttery smooth finish — and these sheets met those expectations. The design impressed our team with solid stitching and a deep pocket that made for an easy fit aroundany mattress, including anair mattress.

In testing the performance, we learned that the bamboo sheets could be washed without issue. No loose threads or shrinkage occurred, though the material was wrinkly afterward. It also continued getting softer after each wash, ensuring longevity and continued comfort over time. Between the quality and the cooling effect, which can be a bonus for hot sleepers, these bamboo sheets are a great choice all around.

Material:Bamboo viscose |Sizes:Twin, full, queen, king, California king |Colors:7

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson

Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set$359 at AmazonView on Cozy Earth$373 at Macy’s

Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set

$359 at AmazonView on Cozy Earth$373 at Macy’s

Star QualitiesFabric looks luxurious and is breathableKept us cool through the nightSheets came out of the dryer wrinkle-freeRed FlagsMost expensive set we tested

Star QualitiesFabric looks luxurious and is breathableKept us cool through the nightSheets came out of the dryer wrinkle-free

Fabric looks luxurious and is breathable

Kept us cool through the night

Sheets came out of the dryer wrinkle-free

Red FlagsMost expensive set we tested

Most expensive set we tested

Made with a viscose from bamboo, the Cozy Earth sheets are silky and cool to the touch, and they kept their soft feeling even after throwing them in the washing machine on a cold cycle. We noticed some fraying and slight shrinkage when we remade the bed, but we appreciated that the sheets were essentially wrinkle-free when removed from the dryer. Though it’s the most expensive sheet set on our list, we think it’s worth the investment.

How They’ve Held UpWe tested the sheets for six months to ensure that the lab tests weren’t a one-off performance. Cozy Earth lives up to its reputation because we used the sheets every day, washed them frequently, and loved them as much on day 182 as we did on day one. They feel downright silky and kept us cool most nights and comfortable always.

We tested the sheets for six months to ensure that the lab tests weren’t a one-off performance. Cozy Earth lives up to its reputation because we used the sheets every day, washed them frequently, and loved them as much on day 182 as we did on day one. They feel downright silky and kept us cool most nights and comfortable always.

Material:Viscose from bamboo |Sizes:Twin/twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king |Colors:16

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson

Parachute Linen Sheet SetPHOTO: Parachute$319 at Nordstrom$349 at Parachute

Parachute Linen Sheet Set

PHOTO: Parachute

$319 at Nordstrom$349 at Parachute

Star QualitiesLinen wicked away moisture, adding to its breathability scoreNo loose threads, color fading, or other noticeable wear after washingSheets are stretchy, especially for linenRed FlagsTend to bunch on the corners

Star QualitiesLinen wicked away moisture, adding to its breathability scoreNo loose threads, color fading, or other noticeable wear after washingSheets are stretchy, especially for linen

Linen wicked away moisture, adding to its breathability score

No loose threads, color fading, or other noticeable wear after washing

Sheets are stretchy, especially for linen

Red FlagsTend to bunch on the corners

Tend to bunch on the corners

Totest linen sheets, we assembled a group of lab and real-world testers to see how well the sheets performed in various environments. In the lab, we noticed there were some stray threads right when the Parachute linen sheets were unpackaged, but the general construction and design seemed sound. Surprisingly (for linen), these sheets are quite stretchy, and our team could fit them over the mattress with little effort (apart from the sides, which appeared scrunched and had to be smoothed out).

Besides these sheets' breathability, we were especially impressed with how well they wicked away moisture. They also seemed to hold up to washing — our team didn’t notice any color fading, shrinkage, or major texture changes. Overall, we liked these sheets' appearance, comfortable fabric, and durability. As with any linen sheet set, expect it to get softer with each wash.

Material:Linen |Sizes:Full, queen, king, California king |Colors:8

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson

Lanest Housing Silk Satin SheetsPHOTO: Amazon$32 at Amazon$28$27 at WalmartStar QualitiesSatin material has a soft-as-butter textureSheets fit mattress wellConsistent performance over three months of testingRed FlagsTop sheet got tangled when we simulated tossing and turningDuring our test of thebest satin sheets, the Lanest Housing Silk Satin Sheets found favor with most members of our team. Everyone loved the design of the sheets, which were soft, silky, and smooth against the skin. The fitted sheet went around the mattress with ease and stayed in place. We did notice the top sheet moved around some when we simulated tossing and turning.After the wash test, we were happy to report no sightings of snags, loose threads, or other signs of wear. It should also be noted that despite the word “silk” in the product’s name, these sheets are actually made with polyester that has a satin weave. Fabric ingredients aside, the sheets are still incredibly silky to the touch, and as the second least expensive pick on our list, they’re a solid value.How They’ve Held UpAfter testing the sheets for three months at home, our team is still impressed. Our tester washes and dries the sheets on delicate cycles after around seven to 10 days of use, and so far, there has been no color fading, pilling, shrinkage, or loose threads. They are happy with the performance of the sheets, which becomes even more alluring when you consider the price.Material:Satin |Sizes:Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king |Colors:16PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Henry Wortock

Lanest Housing Silk Satin SheetsPHOTO: Amazon$32 at Amazon$28$27 at Walmart

Lanest Housing Silk Satin Sheets

$32 at Amazon$28$27 at Walmart

Star QualitiesSatin material has a soft-as-butter textureSheets fit mattress wellConsistent performance over three months of testingRed FlagsTop sheet got tangled when we simulated tossing and turning

Star QualitiesSatin material has a soft-as-butter textureSheets fit mattress wellConsistent performance over three months of testing

Satin material has a soft-as-butter texture

Sheets fit mattress well

Consistent performance over three months of testing

Red FlagsTop sheet got tangled when we simulated tossing and turning

Top sheet got tangled when we simulated tossing and turning

During our test of thebest satin sheets, the Lanest Housing Silk Satin Sheets found favor with most members of our team. Everyone loved the design of the sheets, which were soft, silky, and smooth against the skin. The fitted sheet went around the mattress with ease and stayed in place. We did notice the top sheet moved around some when we simulated tossing and turning.

After the wash test, we were happy to report no sightings of snags, loose threads, or other signs of wear. It should also be noted that despite the word “silk” in the product’s name, these sheets are actually made with polyester that has a satin weave. Fabric ingredients aside, the sheets are still incredibly silky to the touch, and as the second least expensive pick on our list, they’re a solid value.

How They’ve Held UpAfter testing the sheets for three months at home, our team is still impressed. Our tester washes and dries the sheets on delicate cycles after around seven to 10 days of use, and so far, there has been no color fading, pilling, shrinkage, or loose threads. They are happy with the performance of the sheets, which becomes even more alluring when you consider the price.

After testing the sheets for three months at home, our team is still impressed. Our tester washes and dries the sheets on delicate cycles after around seven to 10 days of use, and so far, there has been no color fading, pilling, shrinkage, or loose threads. They are happy with the performance of the sheets, which becomes even more alluring when you consider the price.

Material:Satin |Sizes:Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king |Colors:16

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Henry Wortock

Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet SetPHOTO: Parachute$269 at ParachuteStar QualitiesSolid weight, classic thickness, and smooth, soft textureFit the mattress well and stay in placeBreathable material wicks away moisture in under 10 secondsRed FlagsNo cooling effectThis Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set offers a classic design, smooth texture, and medium weight that provides some extra coziness. The pocket of the fitted sheet went around the mattress without issue, and despite our team tossing and turning, both sheets stayed in place. Through several other measures, we determined the sheets can wick away and absorb moisture in under 10 seconds while also being breathable. They didn’t have a cooling effect per se, since they warmed up to match our body temperature once we were lying down, but cotton is breathable enough to serve as a year-round comfortable sheet material. Plus, they held up well to washing and actually softened even more afterward.How They’ve Held UpFor three months at home, one tester put these sheets to the test in real-life scenarios. They used the sheets regularly, washing them on a cold cycle almost every week. Mostly, the sheets lived up to our testing lab insights in almost every category. The only exception was the mattress fit. Our tester said the fitted sheet frequently slipped off the mattress, rather than the snug fit we saw in our lab. Overall, they were satisfied with the sheets' softness, comfort, and durability.Material:100 percent cotton |Sizes:Full, queen, king, California king |Colors:6PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry Wortock

Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet SetPHOTO: Parachute$269 at Parachute

Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set

$269 at Parachute

Star QualitiesSolid weight, classic thickness, and smooth, soft textureFit the mattress well and stay in placeBreathable material wicks away moisture in under 10 secondsRed FlagsNo cooling effect

Star QualitiesSolid weight, classic thickness, and smooth, soft textureFit the mattress well and stay in placeBreathable material wicks away moisture in under 10 seconds

Solid weight, classic thickness, and smooth, soft texture

Fit the mattress well and stay in place

Breathable material wicks away moisture in under 10 seconds

Red FlagsNo cooling effect

No cooling effect

This Parachute Brushed Cotton Sheet Set offers a classic design, smooth texture, and medium weight that provides some extra coziness. The pocket of the fitted sheet went around the mattress without issue, and despite our team tossing and turning, both sheets stayed in place. Through several other measures, we determined the sheets can wick away and absorb moisture in under 10 seconds while also being breathable. They didn’t have a cooling effect per se, since they warmed up to match our body temperature once we were lying down, but cotton is breathable enough to serve as a year-round comfortable sheet material. Plus, they held up well to washing and actually softened even more afterward.

How They’ve Held UpFor three months at home, one tester put these sheets to the test in real-life scenarios. They used the sheets regularly, washing them on a cold cycle almost every week. Mostly, the sheets lived up to our testing lab insights in almost every category. The only exception was the mattress fit. Our tester said the fitted sheet frequently slipped off the mattress, rather than the snug fit we saw in our lab. Overall, they were satisfied with the sheets' softness, comfort, and durability.

For three months at home, one tester put these sheets to the test in real-life scenarios. They used the sheets regularly, washing them on a cold cycle almost every week. Mostly, the sheets lived up to our testing lab insights in almost every category. The only exception was the mattress fit. Our tester said the fitted sheet frequently slipped off the mattress, rather than the snug fit we saw in our lab. Overall, they were satisfied with the sheets' softness, comfort, and durability.

Material:100 percent cotton |Sizes:Full, queen, king, California king |Colors:6

PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry Wortock

Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Flannel SheetsPHOTO: Coyuchi$198 at Amazon$308$198 at Nordstrom$298 at WayfairStar QualitiesSo soft that they almost feel like cashmereBreathable, with a good balance between thick and thinDurable material didn’t have any wear after washing and felt softerRed FlagsToo warm for sleepers who run hotThough many people seek out cooling sheets, some need a little more coziness to fall into a deep sleep. For great flannel sheets, look no further than the Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Flannel Sheet set. As a bit of a Goldilocks, the sheet wasn’t too thick or too thin. Flannel is warm — that’s a given — but this sheet set was also surprisingly breathable.The sturdy material held up as expected after the wash. The sheets retained their soft feel, and the solid material showed no snags, loose threads, or other imperfections post-wash. Essentially, the set provides a soft and cozy place to sleep at night without weighing you down as some flannel products are reported to do. Pair them with your favoriteduvet coverand insert for an extra cozy feeling.Material:100 percent brushed cotton |Sizes:Twin, full, queen, king, California king |Colors:8PHOTO: People / Grant WebsterPHOTO: People / Grant Webster

Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Flannel SheetsPHOTO: Coyuchi$198 at Amazon$308$198 at Nordstrom$298 at Wayfair

Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Flannel Sheets

PHOTO: Coyuchi

$198 at Amazon$308$198 at Nordstrom$298 at Wayfair

Star QualitiesSo soft that they almost feel like cashmereBreathable, with a good balance between thick and thinDurable material didn’t have any wear after washing and felt softerRed FlagsToo warm for sleepers who run hot

Star QualitiesSo soft that they almost feel like cashmereBreathable, with a good balance between thick and thinDurable material didn’t have any wear after washing and felt softer

So soft that they almost feel like cashmere

Breathable, with a good balance between thick and thin

Durable material didn’t have any wear after washing and felt softer

Red FlagsToo warm for sleepers who run hot

Too warm for sleepers who run hot

Though many people seek out cooling sheets, some need a little more coziness to fall into a deep sleep. For great flannel sheets, look no further than the Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Flannel Sheet set. As a bit of a Goldilocks, the sheet wasn’t too thick or too thin. Flannel is warm — that’s a given — but this sheet set was also surprisingly breathable.

The sturdy material held up as expected after the wash. The sheets retained their soft feel, and the solid material showed no snags, loose threads, or other imperfections post-wash. Essentially, the set provides a soft and cozy place to sleep at night without weighing you down as some flannel products are reported to do. Pair them with your favoriteduvet coverand insert for an extra cozy feeling.

Material:100 percent brushed cotton |Sizes:Twin, full, queen, king, California king |Colors:8

PHOTO: People / Grant WebsterPHOTO: People / Grant Webster

What to Know About Buying Sheets

Material

Welch breaks down what to expect with popular sheet materials:

Thread Count

Don’t get too caught up on this number, as it varies, depending on the material. “Thread count can matter to some extent,” says Welch. He says sheets with a higher thread count can have “a smoother and softer feel, but it’s not the sole factor determining quality.”

A thread count of 300 is usually a sweet spot for luxurious sheets, but the material can also play a factor. For instance, theOlive + Crate Cooling Eucalyptus Sheet Sethas a thread count of 300, whereas theLanest Housing Silk Satin Sheetshave a thread count of 400. That said, Welch suggests focusing on the fabric’s quality, materials, and weave when choosing sheets.

Durability

Since this article combines the results of five different tests, we’ll share a glimpse of what those processes looked like. We tested 224 sheets, focusing on flannel, percale, cotton, bamboo, linen, and eucalyptus sheet sets. We evaluated them on the following criteria:

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccording to Welch, linen sheets pill initially, but that effect lessens with time “with proper care and washing.” Cotton doesn’t pill as quickly, but it will depend on the thread count and specific fabric. Bamboo is prone to pilling “due to the fiber characteristics,” and flannel is the most likely to pill thanks to the material’s “brushed surface,” says Welch.Similarly to the clothes you wear on your body during the day or apair of pajamasat night, certain fabrics are just more breathable than others, and some even help wick away sweat for added comfort. Per Welch’s expertise, “Linen is known for its cooling properties, ensuring a comfortable sleep experience even on warm nights.” Cotton is another well-known breathable fabric, but when it has a percale weave, it provides even more ventilation. Bamboo and eucalyptus are some of the most commonly used materials for cooling sheets because they help wick away moisture and feel cool to the touch. The one material that is definitely not designed for cooling is flannel (reach for these sheets in the winter instead to stay cozy). Satin is somewhere in the middle since it’s cool to the touch but not as breathable.Generally, it’s thought that silk (in this case, with a satin weave) is the best material to sleep on for your hair and skin (that’s also whysilk pillowcasesare so popular). Since silk is so smooth, it usually results in less breakage and fewer skin irritations. Regardless of what material you sleep on, you should wash your pillowcases frequently to keep your skin happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

According to Welch, linen sheets pill initially, but that effect lessens with time “with proper care and washing.” Cotton doesn’t pill as quickly, but it will depend on the thread count and specific fabric. Bamboo is prone to pilling “due to the fiber characteristics,” and flannel is the most likely to pill thanks to the material’s “brushed surface,” says Welch.

Similarly to the clothes you wear on your body during the day or apair of pajamasat night, certain fabrics are just more breathable than others, and some even help wick away sweat for added comfort. Per Welch’s expertise, “Linen is known for its cooling properties, ensuring a comfortable sleep experience even on warm nights.” Cotton is another well-known breathable fabric, but when it has a percale weave, it provides even more ventilation. Bamboo and eucalyptus are some of the most commonly used materials for cooling sheets because they help wick away moisture and feel cool to the touch. The one material that is definitely not designed for cooling is flannel (reach for these sheets in the winter instead to stay cozy). Satin is somewhere in the middle since it’s cool to the touch but not as breathable.

Generally, it’s thought that silk (in this case, with a satin weave) is the best material to sleep on for your hair and skin (that’s also whysilk pillowcasesare so popular). Since silk is so smooth, it usually results in less breakage and fewer skin irritations. Regardless of what material you sleep on, you should wash your pillowcases frequently to keep your skin happy.

Madison Yaugeris a shopping editor for PEOPLE who’s tested hundreds of lifestyle products across all categories. With a background in news and lifestyle journalism, she has a wide network of expert sources and a penchant for accuracy. Yauger also used testing insights from five different sheet tests we held in our lab and various testers’ homes. We considered the materials, durability, and fit of each sheet set, as well as breathability, cooling abilities, and water absorbency.

Our Expert PanelMikel Welchis a celebrity interior designer and host of Netflix’sHack My Home.

Our Expert Panel

Mikel Welchis a celebrity interior designer and host of Netflix’sHack My Home.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com