What Are the Different Types of Sheets?
Sheets are pretty straightforward, right? Think again! There are actually a lot of different types of sheets out there, whether you know it or not. If you’ve been blissfully unaware of all of these different varieties -- you’ve come to the right place! We are here to tell you everything you need to know about sheets so that you can find the perfect set for each room in your home.
Flat Sheet vs. Fitted Sheet
First, let’s talk about the two different kinds of sheets: flat and fitted. The flat sheet is placed on top of the fitted sheet but goes underneath the duvet, comforter, or blanket. The flat sheet is usually tucked into the bed down at the bottom so that it’s not extremely loose. That being said, many people are “anti-flat sheet” and just sleep in their bed with the fitted sheet and blankets by themselves. On the other hand, the fitted sheet is the sheet with elastic sewn into the corners so that it can be securely placed on top of the mattress. When you’re buying a fitted sheet, there are two different types of pocket depth: deep pockets and standard pockets. If you have a really thick mattress or a mattress topper that makes your mattress more than 14 inches thick, then you need to go with deep pockets so that your fitted sheets can properly fit on top of your mattress without popping off. Otherwise, standard pockets should do the trick.
Different Sheet Materials
Next, let’s talk about the different materials for sheets. There are so many out there that it can be a little bit confusing to know which materials to look for and which are better than others. A lot of it really comes down to preference. That being said, here’s a quick rundown of the different materials for sheets so that you can decide for yourself which is the best for you:
- Cotton: Cotton is far and away the best and most popular material for sheets. This is because cotton is soft and breathable while also being durable and affordable. That being said, not all cotton sheets are created equal! Long-stem cotton is more luxurious than its shorter-stem counterparts. For example, the well-known Egyptian cotton has a very long stem. In the US, Supima cotton is the best type of cotton with a very long stem. Different weaves of cotton in sheets include a percale weave, sateen weave, and a jersey knit.
- Flannel: Flannel is technically cotton, but the weave is totally different from other types -- making it a super warm fabric that is ideal for cold environments in the winter. If you are constantly cold while you sleep, then flannel might be the best fit for you.
- Silk: Silk has a very cool and almost slippery feel to it that feels very luxurious. These sheets are super cool to the touch, making them ideal for hot environments or for those who tend to get really hot while they sleep. Silk is also hypoallergenic -- making it a great option for those with allergies.
- Polyester: Polyester is a man-made material that is used in all sorts of things from clothes to sheets. Since it’s man-made, it’s cheaper but it may not feel as soft as cotton or other materials. That being said, if you are looking for an economical choice, polyester is where it’s at.
- Blended materials: If you want the best of both worlds when it comes to cotton and polyester, consider a blended material that consists of both! These options are quite affordable while still being soft -- although not as soft as a high-quality cotton, like Supima.
Silver Sheets?
One unexpected material for sheets that we haven’t discussed so far is actually silver. But it’s probably nothing like what you’re picturing. For example, the Miracle Brand makes silver-infused sheets that consist of 5% natural silver fibers combined with 95% of super-soft cotton. For this reason, silver sheets are still super comfortable and indistinguishable in feel from those without silver fibers.
But what’s the point of silver fibers, anyway? Well, as it turns out, silver has antibacterial properties due to its physical makeup. It has ions that possess a positive charge and are able to suck in bacteria and germs like a magnet to eliminate 99.9% of bacteria within the fabric and keep it odor-free long-term. When your sheets are able to kill bacteria on their own, that means that you can wash them less often than usual. This also means that you are doing your skin a huge favor since the bacteria in your sheets is a common source of breakouts and other types of skin irritations. As you can see, silver sheets are a great new product that you should definitely look into if you’re sick of doing laundry all the time or sick of dealing with breakouts (or both)!
Different Thread Counts
A lot of people assume that they need the highest thread count sheets possible in order to be comfortable. Is that really necessary? No. Thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads per square inch of fabric. They can range from 150 to 1,000+. It’s common for people to think that thread count is directly related to softness -- and it is in a way. But at the same time, after a certain point, your sheets aren’t really getting that much softer despite a higher thread count. This is why we recommend that you go with sheets that have a thread count between 300 and 500. Anything less won’t feel great and anything more will cost you an arm and a leg for basically no reason. The Miracle Brand’s Signature Sheet Set has a thread count of 350, whereas the Extra Luxe set has a thread count of 500. Either of these options are ideal, however, if you really want super soft and silk sheets then the Extra Luxe option is probably best for you.
Different Sheet Sizes
As you’re probably aware, there are different sheet sizes depending on what size bed you have. But what are the different sizes and can you switch around your sheets no matter what the size is? Not quite. Here are the sizes you need to know:
- Twin: The smallest bed size that fits one person.
- Flat sheet: 71” x 98”
- Fitted sheet: 39” x 75” x 16”
- Full: The second smallest bed size that can technically fit two people, although it would be a pretty tight squeeze.
- Flat sheet: 86” x 98”
- Fitted sheet: 54” x 75” x 16”
- Queen: The most common bed size, as it can comfortably fit two people without taking up the entire room.
- Flat sheet: 94” x 102”
- Fitted sheet: 60” x 80” x 16”
- King: A big bed that can fit two people with tons of room to spare.
- Flat sheet: 112” x 104”
- Fitted sheet: 76” x 80” x 16”
- California King: The biggest bed type that can easily fit multiple people, pets, etc.
- Flat sheet: 111” x 114”
- Fitted sheet: 73” x 85” x 15”
Generally speaking, queen-size sheets can be used on a full-size bed without issue. In fact, some companies just have one size sheet for both bed sizes. The same goes for king and California king sizes as well.
The Rundown
As you can see, there are many different types of sheets out there. However, with a little bit of time and research on your end, you can find the perfect set for each room in your house that doesn't just feel good but is self-cleaning and easy to care for.
Sources:
- https://www.today.com/home/flat-sheet-purpose-should-you-use-flat-sheet-your-bed-t115235
- https://www.thesleepjudge.com/types-of-bed-sheets/
- https://www.businessinsider.com/bed-how-often-should-wash-sheets-dust-mites-fungi-bacteria-2019-5#:~:text=Another%20study%20found%20that%20unwashed,rare%20cases%20can%20be%20deadly.
