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Bed & Bath > Sheets > Sheets Buying Guide

It's estimated that we spend about a third of our lives asleep – that's over 200,000 hours! We spend so much time in bed, it's important to choose sheets that are comfortable and durable. With so many options available – from the type of cotton to a rainbow of colors – it's easy to lose sleep over your decision. But rest easy, this short guide to sheets will help put those questions to bed for good.
don't know a term? read our glossary

 

wrap your head around thread count
The term "thread count" refers to the number of threads, both horizontal and vertical, woven into a single square inch of fabric. Typically, the higher the thread count the denser and smoother the sheet will feel. But a high thread count alone is not a perfect indicator of a sheet's quality, as many factors - including the kind of cotton and type of weave - have an impact on a sheet's softness and durability.

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get the fabric facts
Known for its softness, durability and natural comfort, cotton is the most frequently used sheeting fabric. The most common cotton grade, called "Standard" or "Upland" cotton, is known for its medium-length staple fibers and used in the majority of woven textiles throughout the world. Several other types of cotton are also commonly used for sheets, and understanding the difference between them will help you make an informed choice.

Egyptian One of the highest quality cottons available, this strong, extra-long staple cotton is known for its luxurious softness and luster. Usually grown in the warm, dry climate of northern Africa.

Pima A very strong cotton often grown in the warm, dry climate of the southwestern United States and a limited number of other locations. Known for its softness and natural sheen, it features medium to extra-long staple fibers.

Supima® A trademarked name for products woven from 100% American Pima cotton.

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be a weave dreamer
How a sheet is woven has a significant impact on its finish and feel. All of the common construction types below produce sheets with very different hand feel. While each weave has its benefits, from the crispness of percale to the coziness of flannel, personal preference will largely dictate which one is right for you. Try changing your sheets seasonally for the ultimate comfort.

Flannel A medium weight, plain or twill-weave fabric made of cotton with a napped finish on one or both sides. This raised surface gives flannel its fluffy look and supersoft, cozy feel.

Percale Plain-weave fabric made from both carded and combed cotton yarns. Lightweight and closely woven, percale sheets have a smooth finish and crisp feel.

Sateen A weaving technique that results in fabric with more yarn surface on the face than other basic weaves. The result is an exceptionally soft feel and smooth, lustrous finish that resembles satin.

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keep an eye on ply
Plying is a process of twisting strands of yarn together in the opposite direction than that in which they were spun. "Ply" refers to the number of yarns wrapped together in a single thread. The process of plying creates thicker threads, which will impact a sheet's feel and durability. Finer threads allow for higher thread counts resulting in a softer sheet with an elegant drape. Thicker yarns create a heavier, but stronger, sheet.

Single-ply sheets use individual, un-plied threads in the weaving process, resulting in lighter-weight fabric with exceptional drape.

Two-ply sheets are made of yarn plied from two threads resulting in strong, durable sheets with a "heavier" feel.

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fit for a king, queen and everything between
The chart below shows the standard sizes for the most common mattress sizes – Twin, Full, Queen, King and California King – we recommend measuring your mattress to get its exact size as there may be some variations in length and width.

Twin 38 x 75 inches
Twin XL 38 x 80 inches
Full (Double) 53 x 75 inches
Queen 60 x 80 inches
California King 72 x 84 inches

Such great heights With the increasing popularity of plush and pillow-top styles, mattresses are now available in an amazing array of heights. The maximum mattress height a fitted sheet will fit is determined by its pocket depth, so it's important to be sure of your mattress's height before you buy sheets. Usually, the mattress height a sheet will fit is called out in the product description. If "pocket depth" is given instead, just add two inches to the number given to determine the mattress height the sheet will fit. Use the chart below for a general idea of pocket depths and corresponding mattress heights:

pocket depth mattress height
Standard 7 to 12 inches
Deep 13 to 17 inches
Extra Deep 18 to 25 inches

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more sheet suggestions
Once you've sorted through thread count, considered cotton type and selected your brand new sheets, following a few simple tips will ensure you enjoy your sheets for many days (and nights) to come.

Think in threes We recommend purchasing three complete sets of sheets - allowing for one set on the bed, one set in the linen closet and one set to be laundered – so you'll always have a fresh set handy. This will also help minimize wear, extending the life of your sheets.

Take care As a general rule, most cotton sheets can be washed in warm water with like colors and tumble dried, but you should always follow the specific care instructions included with your sheets. Promptly removing the sheets from the dryer will help minimize wrinkling.

Now go get some sleep!

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