The Best Sheets To Cozy Up In For Better Sleep, Expert Says
If you've found yourself looking at this article, we'll go out on a limb and assume you're not sleeping well, and you think your sheets may be part of the problem. Well, guess what? You're definitely on to something—the fabric that clings to your mattress may very well be at least partly to blame, says Chris Winter, MD, neurologist, sleep specialist, and author of The Sleep Solution: Why Your Sleep Is Broken and How To Fix It. So with the help of Dr. Winter, we've rounded up the very best sheets to shop and cozy up in at home for much better sleep.
Dr. Winter explains that the right sheets are vital when it comes to getting a restorative night's rest. "Being comfortable is the foundation of good sleep. If your sheets don't feel soothing or provide good temperature regulation and moisture dissipation, you're probably not going to sleep well," he says.
To help you achieve better sleep, we asked Dr. Winter to explain what to look for when shopping for sheets—whether you sleep hot or cold—and found great options that fit the bill. Stock your cart with these sets for better snoozing. And next, be sure to check out The 6 Best Exercises for Strong and Toned Arms in 2022, Trainer Says.
If you sleep hot
Dr. Winter says that 65 degrees is the ideal temperature for a good night's rest. Cooling sheets may be a good option if your bedroom is generally warmer than this, or you tend to feel clammy no matter where you set the thermostat.
Since they allow for airflow and moisture (read: sweat) dissipation, looser-weave fabrics are generally used to make sheets for hot sleepers. Dr. Winter says linen (with a thread count between 80 and 120), polyester, cotton (with a thread count between 200 and 400), and bamboo are all excellent options. Bonus points for sheet sets with additional moisture-wicking properties.
Check out our top picks below.
Related: Why You're Not Sleeping Anymore As You Get Older, Expert Says
Sheex Original Performance Sheet Set
If you tend to get sweaty in your sleep, consider these the sheets for you. One of Dr. Winter's favorite brands, this polyester set comes in six soothing neutral colors and is naturally sweat-wicking. As an added benefit, these sheets are wrinkle-resistant and come with a 60-night guarantee. So if these sheets aren't helping you sleep any better within two months, you can return them for a full refund—no sweat.
Bedsure Linen Sheets Set
Made from long flax fibers, linen is naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and durable. While linen sheets tend to be pricier than those made from other fabrics, this Amazon favorite is fairly wallet-friendly. Each set has a cozy, textured look and has two pillowcases, a fitted sheet, and a flat sheet. Reviewers note that they're "breathable and beyond comfortable" and "the nicest sheets I've ever owned." The set gets bonus points for its OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, which indicates it's free of harmful substances. If you've been looking for a hypoallergenic option for your sensitive skin, this may be a great option to check out.
Related: 10 Ultra-Effective Sleep Hacks For A Better Night's Rest
If you sleep cold
Fall, winter, and in some cases, a very powerful AC unit can leave some of us feeling chilly when we snuggle into bed. If that's you, Dr. Winter says to look for sheets made of fabrics that restrict air movement. Materials like flannel, cashmere, microfleece, and heavier-weight cotton (400+ thread count) will trap the layer of air near your body, heat it, and keep it around you so you warm up, Dr. Winter explains.
The two options below will keep you cozy on chilly nights.
L.L.Bean Ultrasoft Comfort Flannel Sheet Set
Over 2,500 5-star reviews can't be wrong about the quality and warmth of these thick-yet-breathable flannel sheets. Reviewers note that they hold up well to frequent washings and are super soft—one person even compares them to "sleeping on cotton balls." It's also worth noting that this set of sheets is a fairly low-risk purchase. L.L.Bean has a famous one-year return policy, so you'll have up to 365 days of shuteye to decide if these are the best sheets for you.
Related: The Best Clothes To Wear For A Better Night's Sleep, Expert Says
California Design Den 4-Piece 100% Cotton Sheets
These 400 thread count sheets are a favorite among Amazon reviewers, who note that they're thick enough to keep you warm on a winter night while remaining cool to the touch. This set is OEKO-TEX certified (a signal that it's free of harmful chemicals and dyes), comes in 31 colors, and can get to your front door in a day with Prime shipping. Pretty darn good for a $43 set of sheets!
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