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How to Pick the Best Sheets for your Bed

Bethaney Wallace on 12th Aug 2015

Considering how much time we spend with our sheets, people seem to have a surprisingly low opinion of them. Not in that they don't like sheets (though that crowd is certainly out there), but in that they don't seem to care what becomes of them. What they're made of, how they feel, or if they get jumbled throughout the night. Some even host no opinion on a cleaning schedule, or whether or not a particular set is made to hold in heat, or expel it straight from the bed.

Yet we sleep on these things every single night.

This opinion isn't universal, however. There are plenty who look for deals on quality brands or change out flannels for satins, weather permitting. They're likely even particular about what and when can take place within their sheets – how they're washed or with what scents can be used in the dryer. Even taking it to extremes and ironing sheets before they're placed on the bed – even though they're hidden and laid upon for hours.

When it comes to sheets, there opinions across the board. But did you know choosing the proper sheets can actually improve how well you're able to rest? That, with just a few changes, you can sleep deeper and toss less throughout the night?

No matter if you're a once-per-week washer or still host the flannel snowmen pattern you were given two years ago, there's a simple sheet-choosing chart you can follow.

Pick Your Weight

Choose a sheet based on the time of year in order to best take advantage of changing temperatures. That likely means a thicker or flannel during the winter and fall months, while breathable materials are ideal for when it's hot. You should also keep in mind what fabrics are breathable – especially if you're a hot sleeper and tend to sweat throughout the night. By adjusting with the weather, you can plan for a night of rest that works with changing temps, rather than losing sleep.

Quality Matters

No you don't have to go out and buy sheets that are made of the most expensive fabric possible, but you also shouldn't choose the cheapest. Low-quality fabrics are itchy, and will break down quickly. In contrast, paying a little more provides you with the gift of comfort. And it gains you more uses per purchase – earning you more out of each set of sheets.

Go for Fit

Technically, all mattress sizes are set to specific standards. But that doesn't mean each set will fit as good as they claim. Mattresses with pillow tops require more room, and deep versions need additional fabric to fit equally tight. To find sheets that won't bunch, read each label carefully or check customer reviews online. And if you find a brand that works best (particularly if you have a mattress that's hard to size), take note of the name and make them your go-to sheet source.

Wash With Care

And wash often. Follow package instructions – materials are more likely to break down when they're not laundered properly. Finding an ideal washing frequency is also key, waiting too long can leave your sheets uncomfortable and ill-fitting, while washing more than necessary will cause the fabric to break down prematurely.

Focus on Laundry Accessories

Scent and feel are the two biggest factors with sheets. After you've got the feel factor down, adjust detergent, dryer sheets, and more in order to make bedtime a positive experience. Additives such as oils and scents will enhance the laundering experience even further.

Experiment

If you're getting a good night's rest, job well done. It's likely your sheets are doing wonders for your sleeping patterns. If you wake often, however, try out different styles, fits, and even colors. It's a simple change, but finding the right feel can encourage more rest on a nightly basis.