Selecting the best bed sheets can become confusing and mind-boggling looking at the scores of options available with us today. Moreover, with each manufacturer touting his is the best bed sheet in the world, selection becomes even more difficult. Let’s have a look at some parameters, to be considered while choosing bed sheets.
This world is full of choices, no matter where you turn, you have a set of choices to make and decisions to take. If you thought choosing the right mattress was important, then you need to know that getting the best bed sheets is also important. Soft, airy bed sheets not only add style, pattern and color to your bedroom, but also play important roles in providing a good night’s sleep.
There is a lot of variation under the bed sheet umbrella in terms of material and quality, which at times can be mind-boggling. Some materials are overtly softer than the others, while some last longer than the others. But, how does one choose best bed sheets for oneself. What are the different factors that you need to keep in mind? Let’s find out!
How to Choose the Best Bed Sheets for the Money
If you go bed sheet shopping, you will find scores of varieties with regards to different materials, thread counts, patterns, colors, sizes and prints.
Material
It is important to get a bed sheet that not only makes you feel good, but is also durable and affordable. The different bed sheet materials available are as follows:
Cotton
Cotton sheets have been people’s favorites for the hot summer months. Cotton sheets breathe well and give the person a cool feeling. In cotton itself, there are several grades of cotton, whose qualities are measured depending on their length of staple. The longer the staple or piece of cotton that can be pulled into a single thread, the more durable the bed sheet will be.
The best bed sheets for summer are Egyptian cotton and Supima cotton types, which are 100% natural cotton and absorb moisture, keeping the body cool. They are also luxurious, soft to feel. If you are looking for cheaper cotton sheets, then go for the polycotton sheets, which are cheaper, but do not breathe as well as natural cotton.
Flannel
People residing in cold climatic regions of the world highly favor flannel sheets, because these sheets keep one warm at night. No longer does one have to climb into a cold bed on a freezing night. These warm and cozy sheets are perfect to rest one’s cold and exhausted body. These sheets are durable and affordable as well. While purchasing flannel sheets, avoid purchasing sheets whose fluff is too loose, because this can conduce to bumpiness after washing. The greater the weight of the flannel, the warmer it will be, moreover, the more the fabric weighs, the more it costs.
Silk
Silk has, is and will always be known for the luxurious and decadent feel it provides to fabric. Their lustrous shine adds to the luxurious feel of the room. They are extremely soft and smooth to touch and keep the body cool as well. However, these sheets are very expensive and cannot be used daily, unless you have a lot of money at your disposal! One can buy these sheets for special occasions and guests.
Bamboo
After silk, bamboo happens to be the softest fabric available for bed sheets. Moreover, those of you who have gone green can have a look at these bed sheets woven from bamboo fabric. These sheets are mixed with a blend of cotton, thus, do not shrink. They also possess anti-bacterial properties, which make them great bed sheet choices in sultry regions. Bamboo sheets also resist odor and always feel and smell fresh.
Beech
Made from the fibers of the beech wood tree, this fabric is also known as modal material. These sheets breathe well, are soft and cool to touch and feel luxurious. They do not allow formation of hard water deposits on their fibers. Moreover, they do not fade easily; are resistant to shrinkage, thus, are long-lasting bed sheets. Modal is also blended with other materials such as spandex, for a more cotton-like feel.
Thread Count
Thread count is that count referring to the number of threads that are in one square inch of fabric, in both directions (horizontal and vertical) of the weave. Each bed sheet manufacturers claim his bed sheets are the best in the world, with 1000 thread count. However, often these touted claims are false.
A high thread count gives the bed sheet a more luxurious feel, however, it also means the bed sheet is prone to early wear and tear. Moreover, such smooth bed sheets give one the feeling of slipping off the bed. Besides, the higher the thread count, the greater the cost. Moderation is the key! Thus, purchase sheets with 300 – 450 thread count for the softest and most durable kinds of bed sheets.
Size of the Sheet
Check the package of the sheet for information regarding the size of the sheet. You don’t want to pick up sheets that are not in line with your king size bed dimensions. It’s always better to be aware of your mattress’ dimensions before going bed sheet shopping. Tell the store owner you own a queen size bed with pillow tucks on both sides.
The different bed sheet sizes available in stores are twin, twin X long, full, Olympic king and queen, California king and queen, split king and queen, etc. It’s also important to remember that sheets shrink up to 7% after first washing. Moreover, mattresses that are more than 16 inches tall, will require larger-sized bed sheets. Consider all these factors while determining the size of the bed sheet.
Hypoallergenic Bed Sheets
People with chemical sensitivities and allergies have to maintain strict caution regarding the type of bed sheet they purchase. A blend of man-made polyester and commercially manufactured cotton is often seen to be responsible for allergies. Cotton, sateen, polyester and satin bed sheets are seen triggering allergic reactions. 100% pure organic bamboo bed sheets are great for such sensitive skin. They are not only hypoallergenic, but also dust mite resistant. Mulberry silk sheets are 100% pure organic sheets. They are great for baby bedding, as they are devoid of chemical irritants and will not conduce to allergies.
Moisture Wicking Sheets
There are moisture wicking sheets specially designed for people suffering from hot flashes at night. The fibers in these sheets have the ability to absorb perspiration from the body and then evaporate it into the air, really quickly from the sheet, thereby leaving the person feeling fresh, cool and dry all through the night. These sheets are especially useful for people going through menopause and night sweats.
Laundering Instructions
While purchasing a sheet, read the laundering instructions written on the packet. Bamboo bed sheets with thread count more than 300, need to be washed with a mild detergent in the machine. Oft people make the mistake of washing their sheets in warm water and they drying them at high heat. This leads to over-drying and reduction in overall life of the bed sheet. Wash the sheets in preferably cold water and dry them on low heat. Satin sheets may feel fantastic to lie on, however, how practical is it to have them dry cleaned every weekend? Thus, take this factor also into consideration while buying bed sheets for your bed.
Price of the Sheet
Before making your purchase, you should peruse through bed sheet reviews online. Look for brands and stores offering discounts. Also ascertain the purpose of the sheet. For example, if it’s for daily use, buy inexpensive cotton sheets. Moreover, purchase some silk bed sheets for guests and special occasions. This will help you control the budget.
Keeping all these factors in mind, go out shopping looking for the best bed sheets for your bed. Snuggling away into a comfortable bed after a long day is nothing less than paradise! Good bed sheets not only help one feel comfortable at night, but also add to the ambiance of the bedroom.
