What to Consider When Buying Sheets and Bedding
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Shopping Skills
Here's a breakdown of factors to help you select the best sheets and bedding for comfort, style, and sustainability.
Fabric Choices and Benefits \uddf5
- Cotton
- Classic choice with natural cooling properties.
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Becomes softer with each wash.
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Linen
- Made from flax; great for warm climates and night sweats.
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Moisture-wicking but more expensive and textured.
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Bamboo
- Sustainable and naturally antimicrobial.
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Ideal for people with allergies and those who sleep hot.
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Tencel
- Eco-friendly fabric made from wood pulp with a silky finish.
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Pre-shrunk versions are best to avoid shrinkage after washing.
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Microfiber
- Durable and silky, often made from polyester or nylon.
- Thin and affordable, but less breathable than natural fibers.
Threads, Yarn, and Weaves
- Fiber Length
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Longer fibers (long or extra-long staple) create smoother, softer, and more durable sheets.
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Ply
- Single-ply yarn: Higher quality, softer fabric.
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Multi-ply yarn: Often made from shorter fibers and can feel coarser.
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Thread Count
- Indicates threads per square inch.
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Beware of inflated counts due to multi-ply yarns; focus on fiber quality.
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Weave Types
- Percale: Crisp, matte finish, breathable.
- Sateen: Silky smooth with a slight sheen.
- Twill: Durable with a subtle textured look, often used for blankets.
Size and Fit
- Mattress Size
- Common sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, California King.
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Twin XL and California King are longer for taller individuals.
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Pocket Depth
- Standard (7 - 14 inches), deep (15 inches), and extra-deep (16 - 22 inches).
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Choose fitted sheets with pockets that match your mattress height.
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Pillow Sizes
- Standard: 20\" x 26\"
- King: 20\" x 36\"
- Decorative pillows come in a variety of sizes.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
- Certifications
- Oeko-Tex Standard 100: Free of harmful chemicals.
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Organic fabrics: Cotton and linen grown without pesticides.
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Sustainability
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Bamboo is eco-friendly, regenerating quickly with minimal resources.
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Ethical Sourcing
- Choose responsibly sourced down or opt for vegan alternatives (e.g., polyester, bamboo).
Aesthetic Preferences
- Color Palette
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Neutral tones for minimalism; crisp white for hotel-style luxury.
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Patterns and Textures
- Coordinate no more than two contrasting patterns for balance.
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Popular styles: herringbone, medallions, jacquard.
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Finishes
- Matte or silky finishes add subtle elegance.
Bedding Types
- Sheets
- Fitted sheets: Elasticized for a snug fit.
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Flat sheets: Provide a clean surface and can double as light blankets.
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Pillow Cases
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Protect pillows and add style.
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Duvets and Covers
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Fluffy, insulated comforters protected by washable covers.
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Blankets
- Quilts, coverlets, and throws for seasonal layering.
Why People Buy New Bedding
- Home D\u00e9cor Refresh
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Affordable way to update a bedroom's look.
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Improved Sleep
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Luxurious bedding enhances comfort and relaxation.
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Gifting
- Popular for weddings, graduations, housewarmings, holidays, or birthdays.
Pro Tip: Invest in 2 - 3 high-quality sets of sheets to rotate and suit different seasons.
