A good night’s sleep is the secret to success. From aiding sweet dreams to keeping you well-rested, beds play an irreplaceable role in your life. While bed frames are optional, mattresses and bed sheets are essentials. Mattresses are straightforward, but their covers require more attention. A person spends approximately 26 years of their lifetime sleeping. Choosing the perfect bed sheet and maintaining it becomes crucial. Buying sheets for the first time can be tricky. Each brand has varying standard sizes and dimensions. Read on to understand what to look for and how to take care of your sheets.

What to Look for While Purchasing a Bed Sheet?

Style

There are predominantly two types of sheets – flat and fitted. Fitted sheets have an elastic band that slips under the mattress. The tailored edges fit perfectly over the bed. One has to tuck in flat sheets manually. In a world that values time, most prefer fitted sheets. However, flat sheets are easier to adjust. One only needs to tuck in excess material if a flat sheet is too large.

Size

One of the most crucial aspects of sheet purchasing is choosing the appropriate size. Sheets that are too small keep slipping out of place, making bed-making a tedious task. Most buyers forget to factor in the mattress thickness.

The first step to picking the perfect bed sheet is measuring your mattress accurately. Remove all sheets before measuring and measure seam to seam. For flat sheets, add extra material for tucking in and extend the measuring tape beyond the ends and under the mattress. While measuring for fitted sheets, one needs to be exact and consider length, width and height.

Material

Cotton

Cotton sheets are the best pick for hotter climates. They have moisture-wicking properties that keep the sleeper dry and cool. Cotton facilitates air circulation through the fabric and is breathable. They are also incredibly forgiving when it comes to stains.

Linen

Linen sheets are as breathable and cooling as cotton. They are perfect for allergies as Linen is a natural and hypo-allergenic material.

Silk

Silk is another natural fabric that is incredibly beautiful. These sheets are soft and comfortable. While they add an elegant touch to the bedroom, they are pricey, and their maintenance needs utmost care.

Microfiber

Microfiber sheets do not stain and make for perfect bed sheets for children. They’re warm and make great sheets for cold weather.

Satin

Satin looks as elegant as silk. Those who use Satin sheets laud the material for being delicate on skin and hair. If you often wake up with knotted hair and dry skin, consider switching to Satin sheets. These sheets are either woven or knit – the woven fabric has a softer feel. However, these are not fit for warmer weather.

Thread Count

Thread count refers to the number of strands that run horizontally and vertically in one square inch of material. Generally, a higher thread count delivers a more durable and smoother sheet. However, one should also look at the range for each material. While a thread count of 120 would make for a quality linen sheet, high-quality cotton counts are typically over 500.

Maintenance

Have Enough Sheets

Households typically have at least 3-4 sheet sets per bed. Sheets need regular cleaning and having a spare is indispensable.

Weekly Laundering

You should change and launder sheets once a week. Each material calls for specific laundry care. Remember to read the tags and stick to instructions to prevent fabric damage.

Dry and Iron

For a luxurious finish, iron sheets before setting them. Doing so gives you a wrinkle-free bed sheet.