The Best Cotton Sheets

Cotton sheets can be challenging to buy based solely on the sheer volume of different ones available. Is it possible to get really good sheets that meet the criteria of healthy/eco-friendly, comfortable to sleep on, and affordable? Absolutely! We have researched the best cotton sheets that are non-toxic and chemical free, 400 thread count, soft and luxurious, and retail at a reasonable price point.

We have sorted through 100’s of options to bring you some strong contenders. Our top picks are all OEKO-TEX certified against harmful chemicals. They are all made from 100% long staple cotton, 400 thread count fabric that has been sateen woven for that extra soft feeling of the most luxurious sheets. To top it all off, these sheets are not expensive, and, in some cases, they are downright inexpensive. Check out our top four best cotton sheets below.

Our Top Picks for the Best Cotton Sheets

Why Cotton?

In the world of sheets there are many different fabrics, weaves, and finishes to choose from, and all of them have pros and cons. You can choose from silk, bamboo, microfiber, cotton, or polyester. Cotton has been a long-time favorite for a number of reasons which are detailed below.

• Comfort: Cotton is an extremely comfortable fabric that has a range of finishes and feels. Usually you can find just what you want when it comes to cotton. They can be a percale set with a low thread count for a crisp and cool feel, a soft sateen weave 400 thread count for all year round, or a thick warm flannel to wrap up in on cold nights. Cotton can meet the needs of every season and preference.
• Dry and Cool: Cotton has properties that make it breathable and a natural wicking action for moisture. These features keep the sleeper both cool and dry enhancing sleep for most people. Especially if you are bothered with night sweats or hot flashes, cotton is a likely choice to help keep you more comfortable.
• Natural Fiber: Cotton is a natural fiber.  It is grown as a crop and not created in a lab. It can be grown with or without pesticides and comes in organic forms for very healthy and safe to breathe options. You don’t need to worry as much about the chemical content of the fabric or if it is going to cause health problems.
• Renewable Resource: As we all grow more and more concerned about the environment, the fact that cotton is an easily renewable resource is a factor in how some people shop. Buying cotton, especially cotton that is sustainably grown can be a bonus. Many manufacturers are labeling their products with eco-friendly designations. Read about the companies that produce cotton sheets and know if you are supporting ecological practices.
• Improves with Age: Cotton, like a fine wine, can improve with age. The fabric actually gets softer and more supple after repeated washings. This process is helped if you keep the chemical content low when washing. This means natural and mild detergents and skip the dryer sheets, use dryer balls instead.
• Hypoallergenic: Cotton is naturally hypoallergenic and great for allergy sufferers.  It helps in attaining a really good night sleep and is always one of the top choices for people suffering from allergic reactions or skin related conditions like psoriasis or eczema. 
• Care: Cotton is considered easy care. It can be washed and dried on a regular basis at home and requires very little special handling. It does however tend to wrinkle., and can benefit, like all cotton from being promptly taken out of the dryer and shaken or smoothed before putting it away or on the bed. 

How to Choose the Best Cotton Sheets? 

It helps to sort through a series of criteria so you can pick sheets that will work for you. Consider the following:

• Size: Check first thing if the manufacturer carries the size you need. Some companies don’t make the less common sizes like Twin XL or California king, and some companies only carry queen and king. If you have a less common bed size, like California king or short queen, check the size offerings before you fall in love with a sheet set that doesn’t come in the size you need.
• Price: You can spend $10 on a set of sheets or you can spend $1,000. Surprisingly, you can get good sheets at either price point or anywhere in between. Also be aware that more expensive does not mean better. If you are on a tight budget, consider one of our best budget sheets.
• Returns and Warranty: What if you don’t like the sheets? What if something goes wrong with them. Returns can be a big hassle, so know ahead how the company handles them. What is the warranty? Do you need to decide in the first 30 days, or do you have up to a year or more? Warranties vary so check the warranty and plan to use the sheets right away so you can see if they are going to work.
• Environmentally Friendly and Ethical: Something to consider is the entire context for how your sheets are made. From the raw materials and how they are grown (with or without pesticide), to how they are harvested (low paid migrant workers or fairly paid employees), to the chemicals used in processing and making the sheets. If you want to make sure your sheets come from an ethical employer, are made under fair working conditions, without chemicals that can cause health issues for you the customer as well as the workers in the chain of production, then read more about the companies producing the sheets.
• Certifications: To help guide your choice there are many different certifications that can apply to cotton sheets. Fair Trade, Vegan, GOTS, 1 % for the Planet, Fair Trade, Climate Beneficial, MADESAFE, and OEKO-TEX, to name a few. If you have a strong leaning towards a certain aspect of linen production, worker treatment, or chemical load, look at the various certifications that apply to the sheets you are considering.

Summary

Need a new set of sheets but low on funds? The best cotton sheets available in 2020 includes some great buys. Cotton sheets are considered the most popular material for bedding. They feel good on the skin, are easy to care for, wash up nicely, and get softer over time. Cotton sheets are durable, especially if they are high thread count like 400, and they last for years. Do your research and be sure to read the reviews or pick from one of our recommendations for best cotton sheets.