When it comes to upgrading your bedroom, most people focus their attention on their mattress and pillow, and while these are both crucial components of a good night’s sleep, they aren’t the only things that matter. Working in tandem with that premium mattress and plush pillow, a great sheet set plays a pivotal role in enhancing your overall sleep experience, and not only do they provide an unmatched aesthetic appeal, they also serve to keep you comfortable and your bed cleaner. By helping you regulate your body temperature, and by protecting your mattress from sweat and other germs, these seemingly simple layers are the true workhorses of your bed and this is why selecting the right ones is so important. 

But buying sheets isn’t always the most straightforward of processes, and with so many different fabrics available, and thread counts to consider, it can be surprisingly overwhelming trying to settle on which option is the right choice for your home. Thankfully, this buying guide was created to help you dive deep into the world of bedding, and if you’ve been curious about how you can best upgrade your sleeping space, then this is the article for you. Covering key components, materials, and even thread counts, this buying guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence needed to shop like a pro, and will give you everything you need so you can immediately turn your boring, basic sleeping area into a luxurious oasis for years to come. 

What’s Included?

Beddings sets are not a one-size-fits-all type of item, and before you can begin shopping for fun colors and eye-catching patterns, you’ll first need to understand the individual items that are typically contained within each package. From duvet covers to flat sheets, there is a lot of debate about what you require and what you can skip over having to purchase, and it will truly come down to personal preference, as well as what overall look you’re hoping to achieve in your bedroom. Thankfully, most bedding sets provide a variety of options to cater to different needs and styles, and with a little bit of research, you can ultimately settle on that ideal set that will create a cozy, comfortable space for restful nights and lazy mornings. 

When browning the various bedding sets that are available, some of the core components you may want to ensure that include are:

Materials

Once you’ve identified exactly which pieces of bedding you’re looking to purchase, the next step in the shopping process will be to narrow down which type of material you prefer. Depending on whether you want something softer or silkier, warmer or lighter, there is a wide range of options available to you, and some of the most popular choices will include:

Thread Count

As you browse various bedding sets, one of the most frequent terms you’ll see displayed on packaging is the “thread count” and while this is commonly used, it’s one of the things shoppers are most confused about. Referring to the number of threads that are woven into each square inch of fabric, the thread count is going to be what tells you upfront how comfortable, durable, and long-lasting a set of sheets will be, and a higher thread count will usually make sheets feel softer, smoother, and more luxurious. Going hand-in-hand with quality, a higher thread count will almost always be found on sheets that are designed by reputable and trustworthy brands, and while you will still need to consider the material used, it does give you a great starting point when trying to decide on which option you want to buy. But with numbers ranging from 200 all the way up to 1,000 or higher, and with price tags that match, how do you strike that perfect balance between a high thread count and affordability?

According to experts, the ideal thread count for a durable, comfortable set of sheets should fall somewhere between 300 to 600, and at this point you’re not only going to find them to be well-made, but affordable as well. Thread counts that are under 300 are likely to feel a bit coarser against the skin, and this scratchy texture can be unpleasant while you sleep, and won’t hold up as well throughout frequent wash cycles and endless nights. On the other hand, exceeding 600 may not lead to a significant difference in how the sheets feel, and the only big change you should see at this point is the increase in cost. With that said, if you happen to find a great deal on a bedding set that has a thread count over 600+ then there is no reason not to go for it, especially if it aligns with your budget and preferences.

Bottom Line

With so many fun colors and intricate patterns to choose between, shopping for bedding can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience, and it can be challenging narrowing down your search when the market is so overrun with options. But instead of being blinded by the vibrant hues and aesthetic appeal, you should always keep your focus on the key components such as the materials and thread counts, as this is what will truly determine how happy you are with the final set you settle on. Whether you’re a hot sleeper who needs something breathable like bamboo, or you’re preparing for chilly winter nights and want the cozy embrace of flannel, the world of bedding has something to offer everyone, and with a little research and patience you can discover the perfect option that will upgrade your bed into a luxurious, lucious, and comfortable space that you never want to leave.