Did you know that 30% of your life is spent sleeping or trying to fall asleep? Yet, most people don’t take the time to make their beds as comfortable as possible.
If you want to spruce up your sleeping quarters, the best place to start is with the sheets.
Start here by learning how to buy bed sheets that make your time in bed more enjoyable.
Things to Think About
Getting comfortable bed sheets may seem like an easy task until you start your search. You will find that the options are overwhelming and it takes more effort than you had hoped.
Luckily, there are ways to narrow your choices and buy the best sheets for your bed style, decor, and comfort. Here are a few things to consider when looking at bed sheets.
Types of Beds
The style of your bed decides which sheets to choose. You may also consider bedroom ideas that will transform our living space and open up new opportunities for different types of sheets.
For example, you may want to install a Murphy bed like Wilding Wallbeds to make a living area more versatile. These types of beds require a minimalist approach. You want sheets and bedding that fit into the wall unit and that don’t poke out of the bed.
Other types of beds like memory foam or pillow-top mattresses need sheets that fit their form and complement their style.
Sheet Materials
Another thing to consider when buying bedding is the material. Sheets come in all fabrics that include natural and inorganic fibers. Types of sheets are also made differently, which affects how they feel on your skin.
The most common materials for sheets include:
- Cotton
- Linen
- Silk
- Microfiber
- Jersey
Variations combine these materials to cut costs, make them easier to wash, and create durability.
Thread Count
Besides materials, the number of threads in a sheet is the most important indicator of softness. But what exactly does a thread count mean?
It refers to the number of threads in a square inch of fabric. These threads include both the horizontal and vertical weaving that determines the tightness of the fabric.
Thread counts range from 200 to over 1,000 with the highest thread counts in materials like cotton. Other materials, like linen, don’t rely heavily on thread count. This is because some material is woven using small fibers to create the string whereas others have naturally woven fibers.
However, in most cases, higher thread count, especially in cotton, means that the fabric is softer and more durable. Therefore, high thread counts are more expensive than lower thread counts.
Certified Organic
Another factor when looking for the best bed sheets is whether they are organic. Sheets that are certified organic mean that they shouldn’t have harmful chemicals on the sheets. It also refers to the production of organic materials such as cotton. Pesticides shouldn’t be used in organically certified sheets.
However, it is important to understand the term organic and how it is used. The term organic may not include the bleaching of white sheets or the chemicals used in dying them in various colors. Check if the dyes and production process are also organic and environmentally friendly.
Care and Maintenance
Washing your sheets keeps them like they are new. And since you spend a lot of time under the covers, washing them is essential to limit wear from dirt and dust.
Having multiple sheets to switch out dirty ones also makes your sheets last longer. Plus, you can buy several varieties to see which styles you like best.
Your sheet washing schedule varies depending on your routine and sleep conditions. If you shower at night before sleeping then your bed sheets may stay clean for longer. Or, you may live in a hot climate that causes you to sweat while you sleep, which leaves more oil and body odor on your sheets. Otherwise, washing your sheets twice a month is usually enough.
It is important to buy bedding that is easy to wash without any special setting or detergent needs.
How to Buy Bed Sheets Just For You
When buying bedding, you want to find ones that fit your bed as well as ones that go with your style and comfort requirements. Consider the following factors when deciding on your bedsheets.
Size
Most fitted sheets come in standard sizes that fit a single, double, full, queen, or king mattress. Knowing which size your bed is will help you pick the right size.
While sizes are usually universal in your country, they can vary slightly based on the style of the mattress. Most fitted sheets can stretch to accommodate these differences.
If you don’t know the size of your bed then you can measure it and compare it to the standard sizes to find the best match.
Color
A cozy bedroom doesn’t just mean soft sheets. The style also plays a role in the overall mood of a room, which affects its comfort. That is why you should choose colors that complement your room’s decor, whether it is full-color or pattern sheets.
Temperature
The climate where you live may affect your body temperature at night. And certain sheets can make you even hotter or can cool you off. The weight of the fabric determines if it is breathable or retains heat.
For instance, jersey sheets are heavy and stay warm once your body hits the sheets. Cotton and linen are breathable fabrics that are best for summertime or warmer climates.
Getting the Most Out of Your Bed Sheets
Now that you know how to buy bed sheets, you can start building from there to make your sleeping area optimal for comfort. Start adding layers to your sheets to accommodate any temperature. Then add some pillows, duvets, and toppers to make your bed superior in relaxation and style.
Check out our Home section for more tips on personalizing your space.
