The 8 best bed sheets of 2024, sleep expert approved and tester loved

15.03.2024 18:06

AOL.com

In celebration of Sleep Awareness Week 2024, which runs March 10th through March 16th, the research team here at AOL has spent the past two months testing the top-rated pillows, sheets and comforters to find the best in each category. This way, you can have the best night's sleep no matter what type of sleeper you are.

When it comes to testing bed sheets, we washed, bleached, slept on and even tried to rip the top-rated, cult-favorites. Our aim was to find the highest quality bed sheets on the market. We worked with sleep experts, dermatologists, and an internist to get their take on bed sheet materials and whether organic sheets are really worth it. Plus, we discuss how much sleep you should be getting each night for optimal energy and health. Dr. Kien Vuu, a regenerative medicine specialist and assistant health sciences professor at UCLA, tells AOL, "Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night." He also tells us, "Consistency is critical, so try to hit the hay and wake up simultaneously every day to keep your internal clock ticking smoothly."

If you're looking to make improvements on your shut-eye and in the market for new bed sheets, this is the list for you. Our experts shared their thoughts on cooling sheets, organic cotton and bamboo sheets, and how sweating at night affects your skin. Keep reading for everything you didn't know you needed to know about bed sheets.

The best bed sheets of 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Are expensive sheets worth it?

An expensive set of sheets often offers higher-quality materials that are breathable, airy, hypoallergenic, and OEKO-TEX certified to be free of harsh chemicals and synthetic dyes. If you have sensitive skin or skin conditions, splurging on sheets that will prevent irritation or acne is a safe bet, but before splurging on the sheets of your dreams, shop around and consider if a big sale event is coming up, like the deals going on now for Sleep Awareness Week or holidays like Memorial Day or Labor Day and, of course, Black Friday.

What is the best material for sheets?

There is no one best material for sheets since there are hot, cold and neutral sleepers, as well as those with skin conditions such as acne or eczema. Dr. Ashley Magovern, a board-certified dermatologist, tells us, "Those with any sort of skin conditions or sensitives, like acne or eczema, and even traditional allergies, I always recommend avoiding traditional cotton sheets. Organic cotton sheets are not bleached nor have synthetic dyes, making them a better alternative for your skin." For everyone else, it's important to look for fabrics that are lightweight, breathable, and allow for plenty of airflow air as sweating at night can cause oil buildup, leading to acne. Magovern says organic cotton, silk and bamboo are great choices, adding that, "Silk sheets specifically help reduce wrinkles, keep skin hydrated, and reduce frizz for your hair."

What is the best thread count for sheets?

While it seems we have always been told that a high thread count is very important when it comes to sheets, the reality is that it depends on the material. The purpose of listing thread count is to let you know the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric and how tightly woven a fabric is. For example, fabric that has 250 lengthwise threads and 250 widthwise threads has a thread count of 500. While thread count can be an indicator of how soft the sheets are, higher thread counts, like 1200, are a sign that the thread is very thin and that the sheets may not be very durable, at all.

A good rule of thumb for finding high-quality sheets relative to thread count is as follows - anything over is more for show or could be a sign of thin low-quality thread:

Bamboo: 300-500 thread count
Cotton: 200-600 thread count
Egyptian Cotton: 300-400 thread count
Linen: 80-140. Thread count is not very important when it comes to linen, though you should avoid higher thread counts for linen sheets since you want them to be very light and airy.
Percale Weave: 200-400 thread count
Sateen Weave: 300-600 thread count

The following materials are not measured in thread count, and should be considered according to their specific construction:

Flannel: 170+ grams per square meter (GSM) - a lighter GSM for flannel sheets will be less durable, but more breathable
Jersey: 150 GSM
Microfiber: 90-120 grams per square meter (GSM)
Silk: 7-22 momme range — Silk is measured in momme: 4.340 GSM

What type of detergent should I use to wash my sheets?

Dr. Simran Sethi, internist and aesthetic dermatologist, says, "In general, it’s helpful to use non-irritating laundry detergents for your bedding and clothing. Avoid detergents that contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes, as these can irritate sensitive skin."

What can I do during the day to get a better night's sleep?

Dr. Kevin Postol, DDS and president-elect American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, tells us, "To improve your sleep at night, it's essential to be mindful of your daytime habits. I always recommend avoiding activities that can disrupt sleep quality. This includes limiting your intake of alcohol and caffeine, and eating 2 hours before bed, as these can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Additionally, reducing exposure to blue light and other screens in the evening can help regulate your circadian rhythms, making it easier to wind down and prepare for sleep."

If you are looking for pillows, we rounded up the Sleep Week 2024 deals on all the best pillows for every sleep position.