Comfortable bedding is a necessity for a good night’s sleep. Investing in high-quality luxurious sheets is an investment in high-quality sleep. Although many kinds of sheets are available, 100-percent cotton sheets are the most popular.
Cozy and comfortable, cotton bedding is durable and can last through many washes. When choosing the best cotton sheets, consider variables such as thread count, texture, organic or inorganic, and wrinkle resistance. This guide lists our top recommendations for the best cotton sheets.
- BEST OVERALL: THREAD SPREAD Egyptian Cotton Sateen Sheets
- BEST BUDGET: California Design Den 100% Cotton Sheets
- BEST HIGH THREAD COUNT: Threadmill Home Linen 600 Thread Count Cotton Sheets
- BEST FOR HOT SLEEPERS: CGK Unlimited Cooling 400 Thread Count Cotton Set
- BEST FOR COLD SLEEPERS: Great Bay Home Jersey Knit Sheets
- BEST ORGANIC: Tissaj 100% Pure Organic Cotton Sheet Set
- BEST EGYPTIAN COTTON: CHATEAU HOME COLLECTION Egyptian Cotton Sheets
- BEST WRINKLE RESISTANT: TRIDENT Cotton-Tencel-Lyocell Sheet Set
Types of Cotton Sheets
Four types of cotton commonly are used to make sheets: Pima, organic, Egyptian, and regular. Other materials include nonorganic cotton and cotton blends.
- Pima cotton sheets have extra-long-staple cotton grown in Peru that’s known for breathability and moisture absorption.
- Organic cotton is grown without chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Look for sheets labeled with Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or U.S. Department of Agriculture certification.
- Egyptian cotton, which is associated with luxury and fine bedding, is crisp and breathable. A note of caution: Do a little research before you buy, since many cotton sheet sets advertised as made with Egyptian cotton actually are fabric blends.
- Regular cotton refers to the standard, nonorganic cotton grown in the United States.
100-Percent Cotton vs. Cotton Blend
Some of the best cotton sheets are labeled 100-percent cotton, but others are blends. The wide variety of sheets on today’s market makes choosing the most comfortable sheets a bit confusing. Some common cotton sheets include:
- 100-percent cotton sheets are durable, naturally hypoallergenic, and breathable. Plus, because they absorb moisture, they’re ideal for hot sleepers. However, 100-percent cotton sheets are often more pricey than blends, and they can wrinkle easily, especially when new.
- Cotton blends—also known as “polycotton”—are made of polyester and cotton. This synthetic material is durable, affordable, and less likely to wrinkle. However, polycotton tends to pill and can irritate sleepers with allergies or sensitive skin. Because the synthetic fibers prohibit optimal airflow, cotton blend sheets can trap heat and make it hard to stay cool.
Organic vs. Nonorganic
The cotton in organic sheets is grown without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Some of these sheets are labeled with GOTS or U.S. Department of Agriculture certification. Nonorganic sheets are made with cotton that doesn’t meet certification standards. Although not a standard for organics, the OEKO-TEX label on textiles guarantees that every component in the product has been tested to ensure it doesn’t harm humans.
Organic cotton sheets are safer for your skin because the fabric is grown and manufactured without chemicals. However, organic cotton sheets often are more expensive than nonorganic sheets.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Cotton Sheets
Personal preference and sleeping temperature are the most important factors to consider when buying new sheets. Because today’s cotton sheets include features like cooling technology, warming effects, and wrinkle resistance, these variables may affect your decision. From thread count to texture, the specifics to look for in cotton sheets include:
Softness
In general, cotton is the softest sheet material for sheets. However, cotton fiber type varies. For the softest cotton sheets, consider the fiber type and weave, which contribute to the sheet’s feel.
Extra-long fibers—also referred to as long-staple fibers—make the softest cotton sheets. Known as the “staple,” the cotton fiber’s length can help determine a sheet’s durability. Cotton sheets with short-staple fibers (under 1.125 inches) are more susceptible to pilling, while long-staple fibers (up to 1.25 inches) and extra-long-staple fibers (up to 2 inches) last longer.
Specific cotton weaves also have a distinct feel. For example, percale is more lightweight and breathable, while sateen is silkier. Garment-washing techniques also add an extra-soft touch.
Texture
The feel of your sheets is another personal preference. Cotton sheet texture generally depends on its weave, type, and staple, each of which has a unique feel.
Percale sheets are crisp, and cotton sateen sheets are smoother. Jersey cotton sheets have a soft feel that many liken to T-shirt material, and flannel sheets have a plush, warm texture. Twill is another type of cotton sheet fabric, but it’s rare because of its robust, heartier finish.
Thread Count
Also called “TC,” a sheet’s thread count refers to the number of individual threads in a single square inch of fabric. Though thread count isn’t as crucial as once believed, it can affect a sheet’s durability and texture.
Generally, the ideal thread count for cotton sheets is 200, according to the National Sleep Foundation. Anything lower may indicate that the cotton bedding is low quality. However, just because sheets boast a high thread count doesn’t mean they’re softer or better. In fact, higher thread counts suggest that the fabric is bulkier and thus more likely to trap heat.
Weave
While a cotton sheet’s weave is unlikely to affect your purchasing decision—many brands don’t even include the weave on the label—understanding what each weave can provide helps consumers choose sheets.
When comparing weaves, many buyers are confused about the difference between sateen vs. percale sheets. The best percale sheets are lightweight with a smooth, crisp feel. This breathable fabric is ideal for hot sleepers; however, the crisp texture often softens over time. Sateen weaves are smooth from the get-go. While they have a lustrous texture, they’re less durable than other weaves.
Twill is a diagonal weave that’s usually used for upholstery and denim. Although it’s rare to find twill sheets, it’s not impossible, since the warm, plush texture is popular for those who live in colder climates.
Fit
Before purchasing a set of cotton sheets, look for information as to their fit to make sure they can cover your mattress’s thickness.Measure the height of the mattress—also known as the pocket depth—and find a set of sheets that matches or exceeds it. Cotton can shrink over frequent washing and drying, so you may want to purchase a sheet with a slightly larger fit than your mattress to allow for shrinkage.
Generally, fitted and flat sheets range from 7 to 14 inches deep. Those labeled as deep-pocket usually run between 16 and 22 inches. Also consider a mattress topper or pad when choosing sheet fit.
Our Top Picks
Many companies know how to deliver cozy bedding and offer products engineered with the latest technology. Usually including a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and pillowcases, these bed sheet recommendations can provide a cozy cotton feel and meet the sleeper’s needs so much so that it might be hard to leave the bed in the morning.
Photo: amazon.com
Thanks to long-staple Egyptian cotton and the durability of a sateen weave finish, these THREAD SPREAD luxury 1,000-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets provide long-lasting comfort. They’re not only our pick for the best cotton sateen sheets but also for the best overall. Using only pure 100-percent Egyptian cotton, these sheets have the texture of silk with the breathability of cotton, which is combed using the latest spinning technology to eliminate short fibers and other impurities.
A good choice for sleepers susceptible to night sweats, these sheets are OEKO-TEX certified, resist pilling, and are made with fade-resistant dyes. Plus, the fitted sheet comes with deep pockets that can accommodate mattresses up to 17 inches thick. These natural-fiber sheets come in multiple sizes, sets, and colors.
Product Specs
- Type: Egyptian cotton
- Thread Count: 1,000
- Sizes Offered: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and spilt king
Pros
- Soft, breathable design
- OEKO-TEX certified
- Non-pilling and fade-resistant cotton
- Deep pockets
Cons
- Some users report limited softness over time
Get the THREAD SPREAD Egyptian cotton sheets on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Get silky-feeling cotton sheets without spending too much with these California Design Den 100% Cotton Sheets. The sheets, which have a breathable, soft sateen weave, are the best cotton sateen sheets for the money. Constructed with naturally soft 100-percent long-staple cotton fiber with a sateen weave, these cozy sheets resist pilling, shrinkage, and tears. At 400-thread count, they fall into the middle ground for softness, smoothness, and weight.
The fitted sheet has deep pockets that can fit a mattress up to 16 inches thick. The sheets come in multiple sets, colors, and patterns.
Product Specs
- Type: Regular cotton
- Thread Count: 400
- Sizes Offered: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and split king
Pros
- Soft long-staple cotton
- Pilling-, shrink-, and tear-resistant fabric
- Deep pocket design
Cons
- May be too thin for some users
Get the California Design Den cotton sheets on Amazon or at Walmart.
Photo: amazon.com
With extra-long-staple cotton and a high 600-thread count, Threadmill Home Linen Cotton Sheets are made of 100-percent cotton that’s finished with a special process to accentuate the fabric’s softness and breathability. Because the sheets are made with extra-long-staple cotton, they’re less likely to pill or lose fibers during washing, making them a quality choice.
Moreover, the material is OEKO-TEX certified and free from harmful chemicals, making it a comfortable choice for those with sensitive skin. It’s packaged in a reusable tote that’s also made from 100-percent extra-long-staple cotton. The set comes in six sizes and multiple colors.
Product Specs
- Type: Regular cotton
- Thread Count: 600
- Sizes Offered: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king; standard pillowcases
Pros
- Sustainable construction and packaging
- OEKO-TEX certified
- Comes in 16 colors
- Durable design
Cons
- Some users report color fading over time
- No split king size
Get the Threadmill Home Linen sheets on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Made with 100-percent combed cotton—a softer version of regular cotton—CGK Unlimited Cooling 400 Thread Count Cotton sheets help cool down hot sleepers. Much like more expensive Egyptian cotton, these affordable silky sheets become even softer after washing. During the manufacturing process, all the short fibers are removed, leaving only long-staple cotton fibers to make up the strong, durable 400-thread count material.
This set comes in seven sizes—twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and split king—as well as multiple colors. The sheets are made from high-quality hypoallergenic material that resists shrinking, staining, and pilling.
Product Specs
- Type: Regular cotton
- Thread Count: 400
- Sizes Offered: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and split king
Pros
- Durable construction
- Long-staple cotton
- Hypoallergenic
- Shrink-, stain-, and pill-resistant cotton
Cons
- Fewer colors than other options
Get the CGK Unlimited cotton sheets on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Blended with 80-percent cotton and 20-percent polyester, Great Bay Home Jersey Knit Sheets are affordable and soft. Offering medium-level warmth, these flexible sheets are cozy in the winter and breathable to last through the summer. This 150-GSM—or grams per square meter—fabric helps keep sleepers comfortable throughout the year.
Machine washable and durable, this sheet set comes in six sizes and multiple colors and patterns. Plus, the material is OEKO-TEX certified and free from harmful chemicals. The deep pockets on the Great Bay Home Jersey Knit fitted sheet can fit a mattress up to 17 inches deep.
Product Specs
- Type: Regular cotton
- Thread Count: 400
- Sizes Offered: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and split king
Pros
- Medium-level warmth
- Suitable for all-season use
- OEKO-TEX certified
- Affordable
Cons
- May be too thick for some users
- Should not be washed or cleaned with bleach
Get the Great Bay Home jersey cotton sheets on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Certified by both GOTS and OEKO-TEX, Tissaj 100-percent organic cotton bedsheets are made of nontoxic, chemical-free cotton that’s grown without pesticides. These 500-count sateen sheets are soft and smooth thanks to the extra-long-staple cotton fabric. Because of its natural materials, the fabric is hypoallergenic and breathable, as well as easy on the environment.
This set comes in multiple sizes, colors, and options, including a 16-inch deep-pocket fitted sheet. Shoppers can purchase either a sheet set in sizes ranging from twin to California king or a pillowcase set to match the sheets. In addition to their nontoxic manufacturing process, Tissaj bedsheets come in eco-friendly, reusable packaging.
Product Specs
- Type:Organic cotton
- Thread Count: 500
- Sizes Offered: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king
Pros
- Non-toxic, chemical-free cotton
- Extra-long-staple cotton design
- GOTS- and OEKO-TEX Standard certification
- Hypoallergenic and breathable
Cons
- Pricey
- May be too thick for some users
Get the Tissaj organic cotton sheets on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
For the luxurious feel of a high-end hotel bed, look to Egyptian sheets like CHATEAU HOME COLLECTION’s Egyptian Cotton Sheets. Designed with a sateen weave and crafted with 100-percent Egyptian cotton, these closely woven sheets are made to get softer with every wash. Thanks to an 800-thread count, the long-staple fibers that make up these thick sheets are not only cozy but breathable as well.
This set comes with a deep-pocket fitted sheet that, like the entire set, is made to last. These sheets are also cooling, antistatic, and engineered to prevent pilling. The sheets come in various sizes and colors.
Product Specs
- Type: Egyptian cotton
- Thread Count: 800
- Sizes Offered: Full
Pros
- Long-staple fibers; cozy and breathable
- Deep-pocket fit
- Antistatic and non-pilling fabric
Cons
- Fewer sizes than comparable options
Get the CHATEAU HOME COLLECTION Egyptian cotton sheets on Amazon and at Walmart.
Photo: amazon.com
Bedroom luxury improves with fewer wrinkles in the sheets, a feature of this TRIDENT 3 Piece Sheets set. Engineered with a smooth sateen weave construction, these 100-percent long-staple cotton sheets come with the company’s Nectarsoft finish, making them not only soft but less likely to wrinkle.
The fitted sheet is designed with extra-deep pockets that can fit mattresses up to 16 inches thick and a double-elastic band for an extra-tight fit. Plus, the cozy 600-thread count set is an OEKO-TEX-certified skin-friendly product to add peace of mind for those dealing with skin allergies. The sheets are machine washable and can be tumble dried on low. They come in three sizes: full, queen, and king.
Product Specs
- Type: Regular cotton
- Thread Count: 600
- Sizes Offered: Twin, full, queen, and king
Pros
- Long-staple cotton with Nectarsoft finish
- Extra-deep pocket design
- OEKO-TEX certified
Cons
- Some users report issues
- Fewer sizes offered than other options
Get the TRIDENT wrinkle-resistant cotton sheets on Amazon and at Walmart.
Our Verdict
With a durable Egyptian cotton construction and deep-pocket design, the OEKO-TEX-certified THREAD SPREAD Egyptian cotton set is our first choice for its high thread count, non-pilling and fade-resistant fabric, and wide range of sizes. For a budget-friendly option, the California Design Den cotton sheets offer a 400 thread count and a soft long-staple cotton construction as well as a pilling-, shrink-, and tear-resistant design.
How We Chose the Best Cotton Sheets
We researched the most sought-after cotton bed sheets in their respective categories and discovered that the best options are determined by their type, thread count, design features, sizes offered, and other special features.
To include options for different preferences, our featured picks are made with Egyptian, regular, and organic cotton with thread counts ranging between 400 to 1,000. Select options are also OEKO-TEX certified, which signals that they’re eco-friendly, durable sheets that stay fresh through many washes.
For those who prefer products made with eco-friendly practices and natural materials, some of these cotton sheet sets are made without the use of harmful chemicals. Select options also come with deep-pocket designs, sateen weaves, hypoallergenic properties, and wrinkle resistance in multiple colorways. Plus, most of these options come in twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and split king sizes.
FAQs
Now that you’ve seen all that goes into choosing cotton sheets, it’s time to answer any remaining questions you may have about choosing the right set for your bedroom. The questions below likely cover what you need to know about cotton sheets and how to choose a high-quality set.
Q: What are the benefits of cotton sheets?
Cotton sheets are not only soft, but they’re cooling, can absorb moisture, and are known for lasting a long time.
Q: Which is better, percale or Egyptian cotton?
Percale and Egyptian cotton sheets are both high-quality options. However, for softness, Egyptian cotton sheets typically are softer while percale is often crisper.
Q: Is Pima cotton better than Egyptian cotton?
Pima and Egyptian cottons are very similar. However, Egyptian cotton usually is softer and more expensive.
Q: What is the best thread count for sheets?
The best thread count for sheets is between 300 and 500.
