Bed Sheets: Reviews

Updated May 2011

We've all heard that thread count alone shouldn't be used to judge the quality of a sheet. But what factors SHOULD you consider? We checked with experts who subject sheets to multiple washings (to assess durability, colorfastness and shinkage), and with others who judge sheets purely on feel to identify the best values. We also assessed user reviews at Amazon.com and Bed Bath and Beyond to find sheets least like to shrink and pill. Read on for our best bets.

Wamsutta Dream Zone Sheets

Best cotton sateen bed sheets

$160

Estimated Price

If you like the smooth look and soft feeling of sateen, we found excellent reviews for Wamsutta Dream Zone sheets, a Bed, Bath & Beyond exclusive. Made from long-fiber Egyptian cotton, these 750-thread-count sheets are a standout in hands-on tests for strength and minimal shrinkage. Reviewers say the wide elastic on the fitted sheet makes for a more secure fit, and the pockets can accommodate a mattress up to 20 inches deep. Owners agree the exceptional fit and soft, smooth feel make the sheets worth the price. The bed sheets are sold in 10 muted colors from white to dark brown, and are available in full, queen, king and California king. They aren't available in a twin size.

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L.L.Bean 280-Thread-Count Pima Cotton Percale Sheets

Best cotton percale bed sheets

$115

Estimated Price

If you prefer the crisper feel of percale as opposed to the more fluid feel of sateen sheets, experts say L.L.Bean 280-Thread-Count Pima Cotton Percale Sheets are unrivaled for offering the crispness and strength that the over-under weave of percale is known for. Made of long-fiber pima cotton, these sheets resist shrinkage and are top-rated for strength as well. Some owners say the sheets feel too rough and are prone to wrinkling after drying, but most expert and owner reviews agree the construction is high quality and the sheets easily fit a mattress that's 17 inches thick. These cotton bed sheets are available in seven colors and are sold in standard sizes only (no California king).

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Garnet Hill Signature Flannel Sheets

Flannel sheet set

$145

Estimated Price

For the warm, cozy feeling of flannel, reviewers rave about Garnet Hill Signature Flannel Sheets. Made of 100 percent combed cotton, this flannel is brushed on both sides for a softer feel and less pilling. The manufacturer says the exceptionally tight weave makes for a "weightier and more durable" flannel bed sheet. Owner reviews praise the quality, comfort and weight of this sheet set. One downside noted, however, is that the pillowcases may shrink. Some nice touches include elastic sewn all the way around to keep the fitted sheet in place, and an inner flap in the pillowcase. Sold in six pastel colors, plus a leopard print, these flannel bed sheets are available in six mattress sizes.

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