USEFUL TIPS
Softest Sheets: Your Guide on Buying the Softest Sheets
6 min read
6 min read
Nothing beats the feeling of slipping into bed and cozying up under a bed sheet set that is super soft. While there are other factors that may be important in your sheet-buying journey, softness is definitely close to the top of the list for most people.
There are so many different types of sheets, from Egyptian cotton sheets to jersey sheets and everything in between. In a time when most people buy sheets on the internet without ever touching them to compare, how is one to know which sheets will actually be the softest?
What Are the Softest Sheets?
What are the factors that cause sheets to be buttery soft? While thread count obviously comes to mind, there are a few other things to keep in mind when buying a pair of sheets. Especially because thread count isn’t everything!
Sateen Weave vs. Percale Weave
The biggest factor when it comes to sheet softness is the type of weave used in the process. There are two main types of weave, sateen and percale.
They both have pros and cons, and some people have very strong opinions on which makes the best sheets. However, if your goal is luxe, soft sheets, there is a clear winner. While percale sheets have a nice, crisp, breathable feel, sateen sheets are ultrasoft and silky.
Length of Fiber
The length of the fiber used is another factor when it comes to soft sheets. The longer the fiber, the stronger and softer the sheets.
Cotton sheets typically have longer fibers. Egyptian, pima, and Supima cotton sheets use long-staple cotton fibers, often considered the longest and strongest.
Soft Sheet Options
If you’re wondering what type of sheets may be soft to the touch, there are quite a few options beyond your typical cotton sheet. These sheets will also feel soft:
- Linen Sheets
- Bamboo Sheets
- Flannel Sheets
- Silk Sheets
- Jersey Sheets
- Brushed Microfiber Sheets
Each of these sheets come with their own set of pros and cons. Some wrinkle easily, others may be more prone to pilling, while others may have an extremely high price point. To find quality sheets for yourself, you have to weigh what is the most important against what is worth investing in for your bedroom.
Benefits of Using Soft Sheets
The biggest benefit of using soft sheets is your personal comfort. You spend a lot of time in bed, so you should invest in a set of sheets that will make you feel the most comfortable like you’re living in luxury.
Some soft sheets may also be temperature-regulating, making them a great option for hot sleepers. Some may feel like hotel sheets and give you fond memories of the best vacation ever.
You may even find a great set of soft sheets that are eco-friendly. It all comes down to personal preference.
Softest Cotton Sheets
Cotton sheets tend to be among the softest out of all the varieties available. Cotton is a great material for sheets because it is the best of all worlds. It is both durable and breathable while still being soft and comfortable.
Not all cotton sheets are created equal; some are softer than others. You need to pay attention to the length of the fibers, the thread count, and the percentage of quality cotton used.
A sheet set may claim to be Egyptian cotton yet only use a small percentage of Egyptian cotton. While Egyptian cotton benefits from its famous name, Supima cotton can also create luxury sheets with its long fibers that are woven throughout the sheets.
You can find cotton sheets that are affordable and high quality. For example, the Miracle Brandcotton sheets check all the boxes for a great set of sheets. They are cooling sheets that are also extremely soft and comfortable.
Softest Sheets Ever
There’s a big debate about what sheets are the softest sheets ever. Depending on where you look, you’ll find a different answer. In 2023, the jury is out between bamboo viscose sheets and the classic 100% cotton sheet set.
Some are even claiming that there’s a cotton percale set that takes the crown. Any of these options will likely give you a super comfortable experience. Just be sure to order from somewhere with a great return policy in case they don’t end up being exactly what you need.
What Thread Count Is the Softest?
Thread count isn’t everything, but it is definitely a big factor. However, its relevance to the soft feel of your sheets is limited to when your sheets are made from cotton.
Synthetic fibers and textiles may claim a good thread count, but their quality isn’t as good. So, what’s the best thread count on organic cotton sheets or other soft sheets? What is the softest thread count?
The number is debatable, but the typical answer to “What thread count is softest” is anywhere between 200 and 600. The sweet spot seems to be about 350.
Thread counts lower than 200 may be soft and scratchy, but much higher than 600 and you’re getting into vanity metric territory — a high price tag with not much discernable difference. For the sheet set that has it all, check out Miracle Brand, which offers 350 and 500-count bed sheets.
With sizes everywhere from twin to California king, these sheets are comfy, cool, and great for sensitive skin. They’re also machine washable and will hold up great over time. Made from an incredible Eucalyptus Lyocell blend, these sheets are oeko-tex certified, moisture-wicking, and, most importantly, extremely comfortable.
What Are the Benefits of Sleeping on Soft Sheets?
The key to a good night's sleep begins with a set of nice soft sheets you can curl up in at the end of a long day. Soft sheets could save you several hours of quality sleep, translating into a more energy-filled lifestyle.
Sheets made of materials such as Supima cotton are ideal sheets to have, as this material has a softness level that is ideal for a good night’s rest.
Other Ways To Ensure a Good Night’s Sleep
The comfort of your sheets is a big aspect of ensuring you sleep well at night, but it’s not the only key factor. You can make a few adjustments in your nightly routine to get a good night’s sleep.
Bedroom Temperature
The ideal bedroom temperature may be a little bit colder than you were expecting. Most experts recommend sleeping in a room with the temperature set to 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
This is the perfect temperature to cuddle under your sheets and still get a good night’s rest. It’s also beneficial for hot sleepers, as the cooler temperature helps avoid night sweats.
If this isn’t cool enough for you, you can set the temperature a few degrees cooler or invest in a set of cooling bed sheets to add to the airy feeling while you snooze.
Avoid Eating and Drinking Late at Night
While a bedtime snack or nightcap may seem like the perfect thing to send you into sweet dreams; it can actually cause your sleep quality to suffer. Try having your last meal approximately two to four hours before you’re ready to go to bed.
This timeline may differ from person to person, as some may need a small snack before bed, and others may need extra time for their food to digest. As far as drinking goes, you should try to avoid caffeine eight hours before bed, and alcohol four hours before bed.
Water should be fine, but just remember that you may wake up in the middle of the night for a quick bathroom break if you drink a lot of it before bedtime.
Avoid Blue Light
One of the biggest culprits preventing you from sleeping well is the dreaded blue light screen. This includes TV, cell phones, and tablets. Many e-readers have screens without blue light, so you may be able to use those later at night.
When it comes to sleep, blue light puts your brain on high alert and keeps you from truly feeling rested. Try to put down your screens a few hours before bed, and avoid doom-scrolling if you can’t sleep.
These tips are a few small steps you can take to get better sleep at night. If you still feel like you aren’t resting well, you may want to check in with your doctor for a few other ideas. Resting well at night is extremely important for your physical and mental well-being.
How To Keep Your Sheets Soft
If you’re looking for an easy trick to soften your sheets, combine just a half cup of vinegar and a cup of baking soda in the washing machine; you can soften your stiff sheets right up.
Quality and durability are amongst the top variables when shopping for new sheets to maintain the softness level day after day. One of the top materials for maintaining softness over time is Supima cotton.
Once you’re done washing your sheets, fold and store them properly. This will help them stay nice over time, so you don’t have to replace them as often. Taking good care of your sheets is one way to make the splurge on a nice set of sheets totally worthwhile.
Conclusion
Choosing a soft sheet that is right for you may take some time, but hopefully, this guide will begin to point you in the right direction. Remember to pay attention to the type of weave, thread count, and material your sheets are made with.
For sheets that are considered the softest, invest in a sateen sheet set, sheets made with bamboo viscose, or a thread count of approximately 350.
Sources:
Supima Cotton Sheets VS Egyptian Cotton | The Sleep Judge
The Best Temperature for Sleep: Advice & Tips | Sleep Foundation
Blue Light Has a Dark Side | Harvard Health
The Three Dollar Hack That'll Have Your Cheap Bed Sheets Feeling Hotel Soft | 9 Now
