Choosing Sheets for an Amazing Sleep

Purchasing new sheets for your bed can be an overwhelming and confusing process. There are so many different types and styles of sheet sets to choose from! At Sleepy’s we know the difference a fresh set of sheets can have on the quality of your sleep, and we are here to help simplify the decision making process.

There are three essential elements that determine the quality and feel of a sheet. These are: fibre, thread count and weave. Understanding these will be the first step to deciding what kind of sheets will be best for you.

FIBRE:

Blended fibres such as polyester and cotton are a popular combination as they are durable, easy to wash and resist wrinkling. However, the softest and most breathable sheets are made from natural fibres, such as cotton, silk, linen or any combination of these.

Supima is a trademark that identifies items manufactured using 100% Pima Cotton. Pima cotton is grown exclusively in America, and is often referred to as the “cashmere” of cottons, as it surpasses cottons in softness, strength and the brilliance of its colour. Sheets that have this Supima trademark on display, guarantee exceptional quality.

Cotton sheets are softer and stronger than sheets made from other fibres, due to the extra length of the fibre. The staple length of Supima cotton for example, is 35% longer than regular cottons, increasing the softness and lustre. Fewer fibre ends are exposed, minimising abrasion.

Supima is also up to 45% stronger than regular cottons (even the leighter-weight fabrics!), making it much more resilient. It also absorbs and retains colour more effectively than regular cottons, meaning that Supima products maintain their brilliance over many years of use.

THREAD COUNT:

Thread Count quite simply is the number of vertical and horizontal threads in 10 square centimetres of fabric. Generally, the higher the thread count, the better the sheet, however the quality of the fibre used is also important to consider.

For example, a sheet with a high thread count but a poor quality of fibre may be less comfortable and durable than a sheet with a lower thread count, woven with a luxurious natural fibre such as silk or cotton.

Thread Counts generally come in 250 and 400 TC.

WEAVE:

The weave of a sheet determines how it feels against your skin, however it’s important to note that personal preferences may vary in this respect.

The crispest sheets are made from percale – a plain weave starting at 225 TC, with equal numbers of vertical and horizontal threads. Sateen sheets have a much silkier feel. This is achieved by running the vertical threads over four horizontal threads. These also appear to be shiny and lustrous because light reflects off the surface of the exposed threads.

There are two cottons which boast a high quality of their weave and durability; these are Supima and Egyptian. However, there are some subtle differences which separate the two.

All cotton grown in Egypt is “Egyptian”, however this doesn’t necessarily mean the cotton is extra long, or Extra Long Staple (ELS). Many brands claim to be Egyptian, however there is no guarantee of ELS. Even if the cotton is ELS, it may be of poorer quality or made of a combination of different quality fibres.

Supima is grown exclusively, so it can guarantee ELS cotton on all of its products, making it the cotton of choice for the discerning buyer.

If you need any further assistance choosing sheets and accessories, head into your closest Sleepy’s store and our friendly team will be more than happy to help you choose based on your budget and your preferences.

Reclaim your Sleep, Reclaim your Amazing!