A good set of cotton sheets has several benefits:
Comfort - Synthetic fibers (like polyester) retain more body heat than cotton does, according to a study that measured the thermal resistance of 10 bedsheets.
Freshness - Sweaty cotton smells better than sweaty polyester, according to results published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology. On top of that, 71% of Americans say they "get a more comfortable night’s sleep on sheets with a fresh scent," according to a National Sleep Foundation poll.
Useful Life - The best cotton sheets get softer over time. On the other hand, rayon, polyester or microfiber sheets can stiffen with age. "Synthetic fibers can be scratchy," said Roxana Hayda to Cotton Inc. The former housekeeping executive, who held roles at the Waldorf Astoria, NoMad Hotel, and Gramercy Park Hotel, continued: "In any luxury property, you will have cotton sheets."
The best cotton sheets use extra-long-staple Egyptian cotton. Pima (or Supima) cotton is almost as good, and usually more affordable. Inexpensive sheets use short-fiber cotton, which isn't as soft or durable. The way cotton is woven (or knitted) also impacts how a bedsheet feels and how long it will last.
Types of Cotton Sheets
Percale - A crisp, durable and breathable weave that wrinkles easily.
Sateen - A soft, smooth and warm weave that pills over time.
Jersey - A soft, breathable and stretchy knit that pills and pulls easily.
High Thread-Count Sheets Are Hotter, Not Better
"When you see a thread-count higher than 400, the number is nearly always a lie," according to the American Sleep Association. Even if the claim is truthful, "higher thread counts trap heat, resulting in sweaty, uncomfortable sleep," according to ISPA's Better Sleep Council.
Being too hot increases sweat production, which lowers the thermal resistance of a sheet. The end result is the feeling of being hot and cold at the same time. 200-400 threads per square inch is the best thread count for sheets: It's a happy medium for softness, durability and breathability.
How Much Do Good Bed Sheets Cost?
A good set of cotton bed sheets (with verified, above-average reviews) costs approximately $45, according to a 12-month analysis of price trends. Those same queen sheets cost around $38 while on sale: an average discount of 16%. This data also suggests that Wayfair is the best place to buy cotton sheets online.
Here are the best inexpensive queen sheet sets for the money:
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I may earn a fee (at no expense to you) when you click a link.
1. Feather & Stitch 100% Cotton Percale Weave 4-Piece Sheet Set
Good Value: $45 | Great Deal: $39
Check Current Price on: Amazon
This inexpensive queen-sheet set fits deep mattresses, retains its color after washing and it feels crisp like the percale sheets of yesteryear, according to several online customers. Some reviewers say that these sheets wrinkle when they come out of the dryer; others wish the sheets were made of thicker material.
2. Threadmill Home Linen 100% Extra-Long Staple Cotton Sheets, 4 Piece
Good Value: $42 | Great Deal: $33
Check Current Price on: Amazon
This inexpensive cotton sheet set is soft, comfortable and it fits a queen mattress properly, according to several online customers. Some reviewers say these sheets look thinner and duller after washing them.
3. Sleep Philosophy 4-Piece Liquid Cotton Sheet Set
Good Value: $40 | Great Deal: $30
Check Current Price on: Amazon | Kohl's
Sleep Philosophy's "liquid cotton" sheet set is soft, comfortable and durable in the wash, according to several online customers. Some reviewers caution that the fitted sheet doesn't stay in place on a deep mattress.
4. Woolrich Tasha 100% Cotton Flannel 4-Piece Sheet Set
Good Value: $50 | Great Deal: $40
Check Current Price on: Wayfair | Bed Bath & Beyond
Woolrich's inexpensive flannel sheets are soft, warm and ideal for the winter months, according to several online customers. Some reviewers say that these sheets fade and stiffen when they are laundered.
5. Pizuna 400 Thread Count Cotton Queen Size Sheets Set
Good Value: $40 | Great Deal: $33
Check Current Price on: Amazon | Overstock
These sheets are cool and comfortable, according to several online customers. Many reviewers say the fitted sheet is too snug; others say that these sheets feel rough and wrinkle when they come from the dryer.
6. Feather & Stitch 500 Thread Count 100% Cotton Sheet Set
Good Value: $50 | Great Deal: $47
Check Current Price on: Amazon
These sheets fit deep mattresses, sleep cool and feel comfortable, according to several online customers. Many reviewers say these sheets wrinkle easily; others say the sheets have an odor out of the package.