How To Choose Bed Sheets: A Buying Guide

The best way to choose bed sheets is to consider material, weave, and thread count, then match those to your comfort preferences and mattress size. Choosing the right bed sheets can make the difference between restless nights and deep, peaceful sleep. Your sheets are just as important as a quality mattress, pillow, or comforter in achieving a comfortable bed. But there’s more to selecting sheets than picking patterns and a color palette. Use this bed sheet buying guide to learn how to choose bed sheets based on fabric, weave, quality, and size.

1. Know Your Needs and Understand Fabric Types

Choosing bed sheets is personal, so to know what sheets are best, start by understanding your needs and preferences. Before getting into details like fabrics and thread counts, consider:  

  • How you sleep: Understanding your unique sleep habits is the first step to picking the best bed sheets. For example, hot sleepers may prefer cooling sheets for year-round comfort, while those with allergies or skin sensitivities often prioritize natural fabrics. 
  • How you live: Think about how often you change your sheets, how much laundry you want to do, and how much storage space you have. Low-maintenance or wrinkle-resistant materials can be a great fit for busy households.  
  • What you like: Personal preferences play a big role in choosing the right sheets. Some people love the crisp feel of percale, while others prefer the soft texture of flannel. Texture, weight, and finish all impact how comfortable your bedding feels at the end of the day. 

Once you know your needs, the next step in how to buy sheets is learning about fabric types. Sheet fabrics vary in look, feel, and warmth retention, so choosing the right option often boils down to your individual preferences. 

There are three main factors to look for when buying bed sheets: fiber (the material), weave (how the fabric is constructed), and thread count (the number of threads per square inch). These factors directly influence which sheets are best for different sleep styles and comfort preferences.

Image of woman in all white bed.