There is simply nothing better than a good night’s sleep.
Any parent will tell you the same. A good night’s sleep can mean the difference between a productive, happy day, and one where we are just going through the motions. While there are lots of factors when it comes to getting some solid shut eye, having a comfy place to sleep at night is perhaps the biggest one.
We spend over ⅓ of our life in bed. It’s important that we make conscious choices about the materials we choose to sleep on. These days we have more choices than ever when it comes to bedding. With so many options, it can be hard to determine which fabrics will be the best fit for you.
Lucky for you, mamas, we’ve done the research for you. We’ve broken down all the top sheet materials on the market, so that you can spend less time shopping, and more time catching some Z’s.
Cotton
Most of us are used to cotton sheets. This material has stood the test of time for a reason. Cotton sheets are available at a wide variety of price points to match any budget. As one of the more popular materials on the market, it is easy to find patterns and colors to match your preferred design aesthetic.
On a functional level, cotton sheets tend to hold up well, even after many washings. 100% cotton sheets are very breathable, which can help prevent bacteria buildup that makes bed linens smell.
Of course, when it comes to cotton bedding, we have to touch on the infamous thread count debate. Thread count refers to the number of individual vertical and horizontal threads per square inch on the fabric. The general belief is that a higher thread count leads to a softer, smoother, and more durable set of bed sheets.
We hate to burst your bubble, if you’ve gone out and purchased a set of 1000 thread count sheets, but this might not actually be the case. Some manufacturers actually cheat their way into claiming a higher thread count by twisting threads together. The end result is a rougher feel to the fabric than some lower thread count options.
The good news is that advances in manufacturing have made it so that even a 200 thread count sheet set is fairly comfortable. In general, anything between 200-800 thread count would be considered a high-quality set of sheets and will do the trick!
Linen
Linen sheets have been growing in popularity over the past few years. And with good reason! Their light, airy texture gives any space a more rustic, boho feel.
Linen is an anti-allergenic fabric, which makes it perfect for anyone with sensitive skin, as well as babies and young children. Many people also love the textured feel of linen fabric against their skin.
Due to its exceptional breathability, linen is ideal for anyone who suffers from night sweats or sleeps hot. It has natural wicking properties, absorbing up to 20% of it’s own weight in water before feeling damp. Cool, dry sheets can be a huge factor in helping you sleep better.
Linen has the distinction of being the most durable fabric of any on this list. Many people keep their linen bedding for multiple decades, making it a worthwhile investment piece. Just be sure to avoid washing them in hot water, and choose a laundry detergent designed for delicate fabrics.
Silk
Silk sheets are one of the most luxurious bedding options available today. Known for it’s impossibly smooth texture, a set of silk sheets is sure to make your bed the comfiest place in your house.
This same smooth texture makes it invaluable to anyone who suffers with skin problem, such as chronic rashes and irritation. Unlike cotton, the fibers in silk do not chafe or catch on dry, irritated skin. Silk also contains natural amino acids, in order to help your skin stay moisturized.
The beauty benefits don’t stop there. Silk pillowcases have long been held up as the gold standard for hair care. Silk pillowcases prevent frizz, lock in moisture, and keep hair detangled.
Bamboo
If you are looking to make your bedroom more eco-concious, you might have done research into bamboo sheets in the past. Bamboo sheets are often considered eco-friendly because bamboo plants are easy to regrow and typically do not require pesticides. However, in order to break the bamboo plant down into fibers that can be used for fabric, harsh chemicals have to be used. If you are looking for an eco-friendly option, be sure to buy bamboo linen, which is made without polluting chemicals.
Bamboo sheets are excellent for those that struggles with allergies and asthma, as they are both hypoallergenic and antibacterial. They also are one of the softest sheets on the market.
Eucalyptus
In terms of sustainability, eucalyptus sheets are the clear winner. Like bamboo, eucalyptus grows very quickly, but does not require harsh chemicals to break down into fibers. It also requires less water than traditional cotton sheets, making this the most eco-friendly option on the list.
Eucalyptus sheets are also comparable to bamboo in terms of softness. That said, it does not have the ‘crisp’ feeling that many people associate with high quality cotton sheets. Eucalyptus sheets can be durable if cared for properly, but do best when only washed with cold water.
Our Favorite Brands For Bedding
At The Cool Mom Co., we have curated a selection of top-notch bedding brands that are sure to elevate your sleep experience, here are our top picks!
Avocado Green impresses with their commitment to sustainability, using organic materials and eco-friendly practices.
Gingerlily stands out for their luxurious silk bedding, offering both comfort and elegance.
Casper is renowned for their innovative mattress technology, extending their expertise to premium bedding with a focus on comfort and support.
Lulu And Georgia brings a touch of modern style to the bedroom with their chic patterns and quality materials.
Annie Selke offers timeless designs and superior craftsmanship, making them a favorite for classic bedding options.
Bed Threads is celebrated for their linen sheets, known for their breathability and relaxed aesthetic.
Serena & Lily rounds out our favorites with their coastal-inspired designs and impeccable quality, perfect for creating a serene bedroom retreat.