8 Types of Bed Sheets for Every Sleeping Type

1. Types of Bed Sheet Materials

Cotton

Cotton is the most widely used material for bed sheets, appreciated for its breathability, softness, and durability. Types of cotton vary in quality and price.

Egyptian Cotton

• Extra-long staple fibers for durability

• Exceptionally smooth and soft

• Resistant to pilling

• High-end option with a premium feel

Pima Cotton

• Long-staple fibers offer softness and strength

• Branded as Supima® in the United States

• Slightly more affordable than Egyptian cotton

Upland Cotton

• Most common type, labeled as “100% cotton”

• Shorter fibers, less smooth and durable

• More budget-friendly

Flannel

• Brushed cotton surface for added softness

• Warm and ideal for winter use

• Available in plain or twill weaves

Jersey

• Knit cotton fabric, similar to a T-shirt

• Soft and stretchy

• Prone to pilling and stretching over time

Bamboo

• Soft, breathable, and eco-friendly

• Often made from bamboo-derived rayon

• Hypoallergenic and wrinkle-resistant

Polyester

• Synthetic and durable fabric

• Often blended with cotton for comfort

• Wrinkle-resistant and budget-friendly

• May feel less breathable and trap heat

Linen

• Made from flax plant fibers

• Highly breathable and moisture-wicking

• Coarse texture softens with washing

• Durable and naturally hypoallergenic

Tencel™ (Lyocell)

• Eco-friendly material made from wood pulp

• Soft, smooth, and hypoallergenic

• Less breathable than linen or cotton

Silk

• Natural protein fiber with luxurious feel

• Hypoallergenic and smooth on the skin

• Requires special care and is expensive

Microfiber

• Made from finely woven polyester fibers

• Soft and stain-resistant

• Less breathable, suitable for cooler weather

Satin

• Glossy finish made from synthetic fibers

• Woven satin is smoother than knit satin

• Adds luxury and is better suited for cooler environments

2. What to Look for When Choosing Bed Sheets

Sheet Weaves

The weave determines texture, weight, and breathability.

Percale

• Crisp, breathable plain weave (1 over, 1 under)

• Cool to the touch but wrinkles easily

Sateen

• Smooth satin weave (3 or 4 over, 1 under)

• More lustrous, heavier, and warmer than percale

Twill

• Diagonal ribbed texture

• Thick, wrinkle-resistant, but may shrink

Dobby

• Patterned weave, often used for stripes or textures

• Common in decorative or luxury sheets

Thread Count & Ply

• Thread Count: Number of threads per square inch. Higher often means softer, but quality matters more than count alone.

• Ply: Number of fibers twisted together. Single-ply sheets are softer and more breathable than multi-ply.

Flat vs. Fitted Sheets

• Fitted Sheets: Elastic corners wrap around the mattress

• Flat Sheets: Laid on top, between sleeper and blanket or duvet