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The Best Cotton Sheets

Last updated on October 2, 2020
Best Cotton Sheets

Our Review Process

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When choosing cotton sheets, the variety of styles, fabrics and sizes on the market can be overwhelming. It may be helpful to begin your shopping process by narrowing down options by size. After all, you can only use sheets that are made for the bed size you have.

Keep in mind that some fabrics may shrink over time, so something designed to fit a full-sized bed could end up being too small eventually. Read reviews of any sheet set you are considering to lower the chances of this sort of problem.

Next, look at your mattress and determine if you will need deep pocket sheets. If the depth of your mattress at the corners is more than 16 inches, you should be sure to find sheets that say they can accommodate such a size. Most sheet sets claim to fit mattresses up to 16 inches; these may be called “deep pocket” sets, but realize that there are larger sizes available, too.

When buying sheets, you should also be familiar with the concept of thread count. Essentially, thread count is the number of threads that are woven into a 1-inch square of fabric. You should know that a higher thread count is not necessarily better. Some sources recommend aiming for thread counts between 200 and 400, with the knowledge that anything higher may just cost more and not offer additional quality. Some higher-end sheets are worthwhile, however; it really depends on what you are looking for.

There are also many types of cotton, like jersey (t-shirt material), sateen and Egyptian cotton. If possible, order fabric swatches or go to a local store with sheets on display and touch each type before ordering a sheet set online.

Our Picks For The Top Cotton Sheets

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Strong Contender

Sweet Home Collection Wrinkle-Resistant 1500-Count Sheet Set, 4-Piece

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Sweet Home Collection

Wrinkle-Resistant 1500-Count Sheet Set, 4-Piece

This high-thread-count sheet set comes in 45 colors and 13 size options. You can choose from sizes ranging from twin to California king as well as select standard or extra deep pockets. The sheets are easy to take care of and put on.

Overall Take

Plenty of Size OptionsYou get a lot of comfort and compatibility with the large selection of size options and the premium feel of this sheet set.

 Best Floral Design

California Design Den 400 Thread Count Cotton Sheets

California Design Den

400 TC Cotton Sheets

This 400-thread-count cotton sheet set boasts a charming blue floral pattern. The fitted sheet has deep pockets to accommodate a mattress depth of 16 inches. These sheets are ethically made in a factory that supports over 300 working families.

Overall Take

Pretty Flower Cotton Sheet SetThese cotton sheets have deep pockets and a comfortable feel.

 Most Comfortable

Comfy Sheets 1000 Thread Count Egyptian Cotton Sheets Set, 4-Piece

Comfy Sheets

1000 TC Egyptian Cotton Sheets Set

These cotton sheets have a 1,000-thread count for the ultimate in comfort. The set contains two king-sized pillowcases measuring 20 by 40 inches. A sateen weave gives these sheets a beautiful finish.

Overall Take

Luxurious and ComfortableTry these Egyptian cotton sheets for a luxurious night’s sleep.

 Best for Guest Room

Feather & Stitch New York 650 Thread Count Cotton Sheets Set, 4-Piece

Feather & Stitch

New York 650 TC Cotton Sheets Set

This cotton sheet set has a sateen weave and boasts 650-thread count comfort. In a California King size, this set’s fitted sheet measures 72 by 84 inches and has deep pockets. These beautiful aqua blue sheets are sure to please.

Overall Take

Classic and CozyThese sateen cotton sheets are aqua blue and have deep pockets.

What to Look For

  • Measure your mattress before you order sheets. Make sure that you have its size correct, and that the sheets you plan to buy will fit.
  • Check the depth of your mattress at the corners; if it’s over 16 inches, find deep pocket sheets.
  • Consider ordering different sheets for summer than for winter, particularly if you live in an area with varied weather patterns. Some heavier cottons may be more comfortable in cooler months. Jersey cotton is a good choice for the summer.
  • If you find a set of sheets that you absolutely love, consider ordering them in several colors.

More to Explore

Believe it or not, cotton sheets have a ply number in addition to their thread count rating. Much like with toilet paper, the ply of a sheet indicates how many layers of thread are woven together to make the sheet.

When it comes to sheets, though, the threads are actually twisted together before the sheet is woven. Say you have a 400-thread count sheet that is two-ply. This allows manufacturers to claim their sheets are 800-thread count. Many sheets over 400-thread count are actually two- or three-ply!

More to explore