The Best Full Sheets

In the past, consumers were only interested in thread counts when buying sheets. Today’s manufacturing methods allow for more brands to produce high thread counts, but this does not always mean the sheets are of higher quality. In general, a thread count between 300 and 500 is fine for softness and durability.

When you’re in the market for full-size bedsheets, take a look at the material of the sheet set, as sheets made out of 100% cotton are usually a good bet. Premium Pima and Egyptian cottons cost more, but they can be of a higher quality. Cotton/polyester blends and microfiber may feel more synthetic, but they do not wrinkle as much. Plus, these blends can be less expensive and may last longer.

Sheets are also made with different fabric weaving methods, like twill, percale and sateen. Twills are a bit heavier but still soft, while percale is more closely woven, with a crisper feel. Sateen is known for its softness, and these fabrics have a bit of a sheen to them. You might wish to have one sort of sheet set for the colder months and another kind for warmer times of the year if you live in an area with changing seasons.

• Before you begin shopping, measure your full mattress’s height carefully. Standard mattress sizes (twin, full, queen, king) do not take mattress depth into consideration. You’ll want to be sure the pocket depth of a sheet set is appropriate for your bed.
• When measuring the height of your mattress, include any covers, pads or toppers.
• Compare this measurement to the pockets of the fitted sheet in the sheet set. If the pockets don’t fit over your mattress’s corners, you will be out of luck.
• Check the washing directions on the labels. Some sheets, like bamboo, may have to be washed in cold water. You don’t want your new sheet set to pill, shrink or fade.