Which Bedding Sheet Fabric Is Right For You?

Pima cotton has longer fibers than typical cotton, so it's extra soft and more durable — which explains why it's widely considered a luxury fabric. This Nestwell Pima Cotton Sateen 500-Thread-Count Queen Sheet Set ($77, originally $110) is made of pima cotton grown in the United States and is available in a number of beautiful shades. Note, too, that these are sateen, which refers to the weaving process and results in a fabric with a slight sheen.

Like Pima, Egyptian cotton has extra-long fibers that result in an exceptionally smooth fabric. It's grown in Egypt, picked by hand, and largely considered the pinnacle of cotton for linens. This Nestwell Egyptian Cotton Sateen 625-Thread-Count King Sheet Set ($160) has a smooth, substantial feel, but "breathes" very well, even in hot weather.

You may see the terms "cotton percale" and "percale," but both mean the same thing. Percale refers to a criss-cross style of cotton weave that feels lightweight; that's why percale sheets are ideal for hot sleepers and summertime. Percale is a bit more expensive than some other weaves, but people who love percale will sleep on nothing else. Try it for yourself with the Nestwell Cotton Percale 400-Thread-Count Queen Fitted Sheet ($55) and Nestwell Cotton Percale 400-Thread-Count Queen Flat Sheet ($55).

Jersey sheets feel a lot like your favorite T-shirt, and that's partly due to the way they're made. Unlike woven sheets, jersey sheets are knit from one piece of yarn. That's why they're so stretchy and comfortable. This Pure Beech Jersey Knit Modal Queen Sheet Set ($80) is extremely soft, and it's a nice choice for year-round use.

Microfiber sheets are pretty much what they sound like: sheets made of very small synthetic fibers that feel silky soft. Although they're not always ideal for hot sleepers, they're very easy to care for — and never too expensive. Case in point: this Home Collection Solid Twin Sheet Set ($36).

Linen sheets are a serious investment, but there are good reasons for that. First, they're incredibly strong; a good set will serve you (and become softer and softer) for years. Linen is a "breathable" fabric, so it's ideal for hot weather, yet also insulates when it's chilly. If you love a crisp, wrinkle-free sheet, linen isn't for you — but fans of linen love its natural texture. This Belle Epoque Lindsey King Linen Sheet Set ($490) is made of Belgian flax linen, widely considered the finest variety.

Bamboo is one of the most sustainable fibers, as it's a fast-growing grass that requires no fertilizer. When it's made into fabric, it's *so* silky soft — as is evident when you glide your fingers along this Cariloha Resort 400-Thread-Count Viscose Made From Bamboo King Sheet Set ($260).

Essential for anyone living in a cold climate, flannel sheets are made of brushed cotton. The best ones are very soft, thicker than other cotton sheets, and surprisingly warm. Now's a great time to buy a set on sale for next year; this cozy UGG Flannel Queen Sheet Set ($56, originally $70) comes in a variety of colors and patterns to suit your style.

Not to be confused with sateen, satin is a smooth and shiny fabric made from polyester. Satin sheets are wrinkle-resistant and are wonderful for protecting hairstyles overnight, but they can be too warm for the height of summer — so save the Madison Park Essentials 6-Piece Wrinkle Free Satin Queen Sheet Set ($46) for the other seasons.

Sleeping on silk is luxurious, yes, but highly impractical for the vast majority of people. (Know how your silk blouse is dry-clean only? Ditto for silk sheets.) If you're one of the rare people who can afford to sleep on silk, you can't go wrong with this Valeron Estate Silk Queen Sheet Set ($600). It comes in a muted-gold shade to match your very own Scrooge McDuck-style pool filled with gold doubloons. Joking aside, sleeping on silk is a commitment — but if your vibe is pop superstar, is there really any other choice?