If you've ever bought a new bedding set only to get it home and realize it didn't include what you expected, you know how disappointing it can be. In many cases, the lack of information about what comes in a sheet set is to blame for the confusion. When we know exactly what to expect, we can make informed decisions and pick the option that best suits our needs. In this article, we'll discuss what comes in a sheet set so you can confidently choose a new set that fits perfectly, feels fantastic, and enhances the comfort and style of your bedroom. So, How to Choose Bedding?
One great way to help you navigate the complexities of sheet sets is to start with the basics. For example, Yumerest’s cloud-like, fluffy duvets provide a cozy layer that instantly boosts your bed's comfort and aesthetic. Exploring what comes in a sheet set will help you choose a sheet set that complements your new duvet, allowing you to achieve the dreamy bed of your dreams.
What Is A Bedsheet Set?
A bed sheet set is a complete package that includes everything you need to dress up your bed. This typically consists of a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and pillowcases. Some even come with a fitted twin sheet, which can be used as a bottom sheet for the mattress.
Depending on the brand and type, some may include a duvet cover and/or shams (decorative pillow covers). This makes it easy to coordinate your entire bedding in one fell swoop!
What Types of Bed Sheet Sets Are Available?
There are different types of bed sheet sets available in the market. They include:
Cotton
Cotton is the ideal fabric for bed sheets due to its natural breathability and soft properties, which provide a comfortable and cool night's sleep. It's also the most durable bed sheet, and it’s easy to care for, becoming even softer with each wash.
Cotton is a versatile material that can be found in various weaves, including percale, sateen, and flannel, offering a range of options to suit any preference. Additionally, cotton is a sustainable and renewable resource, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Bamboo
Bamboo has gained popularity in bedding recently due to its softness and breathability. Bamboo sheets are ideal for those seeking a lightweight option with a silky feel. They can also be an excellent option for those with allergies or sensitive skin, as they’re naturally moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating.
They’re also environmentally friendly as bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable resource. They’re also incredibly soft and silky to the touch, providing a luxurious sleeping experience.
Silk
Silk sheets are the way to go if you're looking for luxury and a silky smooth feel on your bed. They offer unparalleled comfort and can transform any bedroom into a five-star hotel. They’re perfect for those who want to take their bedding game up a notch!
Sateen
Many people confuse Sateen with Satin. Satin is a soft, shiny material generally made from nylon, rayon, or silk. Sateen is a smooth (but not glossy) cotton material. Sateen sheets have an elegant and luxurious look and feel. They are made using a sateen weave. The sateen weave structure is a multiple-thread (usually three or four) over and one under.
The result is a lustrous, smooth-faced, and slippery surface, along with a surprisingly durable fabric. The cotton is then mercerized to give a high level of sheen. Mercerization involves soaking the fiber in a bath of sodium hydroxide, followed by a tub of acid. This makes the cotton fiber stronger and more conducive to dyeing. It also adds a shine to the fibers.
Percale
Percale is a plain weave fabric, where threads are woven one over and one under each other. This creates a matte, flat appearance. And precisely because percale threads are tightly woven, these sheets have a fine, soft, powdery texture and finish.
The selection of the type of weave is entirely a personal preference. Most people select sateen sheets because they want the sheen. For those who prefer a matte appearance, percale is a better choice.
How Many Sheet Sets Should You Have?
It's a good idea to have a minimum of two sheet sets for every bed in your home. This ensures that you'll have a clean set to use while the other is being washed. Some people prefer to have more so they can rotate the colors and designs they use for their beds.
It can also be beneficial to have some extra sets to use in case of overnight guests. Keep in mind that the more sheet sets you have, the longer they will last you.
The wear and tear that comes from use and washing will be more evenly divided amongst each set. While you may spend less by buying only one or two sets, you will have to replace them sooner.
Related Reading
- Why Are My Sheets Itchy
- Are Microfiber Sheets Good for Skin
- Are Bamboo Sheets Hypoallergenic
- Do Bamboo Sheets Wrinkle
- Why Are Duvet Covers So Expensive
What Comes in a Sheet Set?
You'll find different kinds of bed sheets and several items in a bed sheet set that can help you create the perfect look for your bedroom. Here are some of the items you can expect to find:
Fitted Sheet
This essential component of a bed sheet set snugly fits and covers the mattress, helping to protect it from spills and stains. Fitted sheets are placed on top of the mattress and typically feature elastic on the corners to ensure a snug fit.
The elastic ensures that the fitted sheet stays in place when you sleep at night and helps keep it in position. When selecting a fitted sheet, it’s crucial to choose the correct size and depth to fit your mattress.
Choosing the Right-Fitted Sheet Size
For example, you’d choose a king-size fitted sheet (or a king-size bed sheet set) if you have a king-size bed, and you’d select a twin fitted sheet if you have a twin-size bed, and so on. Mattress depth is also necessary since many larger beds like queen, king, and California king tend to be deeper (or thicker).
Look for fitted sheets that are labeled as “deep” or “extra-deep” pockets if this applies to you. Measure the depth of your mattress to determine the correct size that suits your needs.
Flat Sheet
The flat sheet is a versatile layer that adds comfort and cleanliness when placed between the sleeper and the blanket or duvet. Flat sheets are placed on top of the fitted sheet and can serve as an additional layer between the fitted sheet and your top layer of bedding.
The flat sheet can also help keep your comforter or duvet cover clean for longer, reducing the need for frequent washing or drying. Flat sheets can also be a great option during the warmer months of the year when you don’t want to sleep under anything too heavy or bulky but still want to cover up.
Pillowcases
Most bed sheet sets come with matching pillowcases in the same color or pattern. This ensures a seamless look and keeps your bedroom nicely coordinated. Pillowcases come with several closure types, including:
-
Envelope closure pillowcases are designed to slip the pillow directly into the case, with one side featuring more fabric to cover the edges.
-
Zipper closures keep the pillowcase securely closed until you’re ready to remove and wash it.
-
Button and tie closures are also common, allowing pillowcases to be securely closed yet remain loose.
Duvet Cover
The duvet cover is a crucial component of the set for those who use it as their primary bedding. This cover complements the rest of the sheets. It helps protect and preserve the duvet, making it easier to clean and change the bedroom’s style according to your preferences.
Bed Skirt
While only sometimes included, a bed skirt is an optional decorative element that adds a stylish touch to your bed ensemble. It not only conceals the space beneath the bed, giving it a neat and finished appearance, but it can also improve the overall beauty of the bedroom design, tying everything together.
Additional Components
A complete bedding set or a bed in a bag may include some additional components, such as:
-
Pillow shams: These pillow covers often feature embroidery, patterns, or decorative trim, making them distinct from traditional pillowcases.
-
Comforters: Many bedding sets include a comforter that matches the sheets. These thick, heavy blankets will help keep you warm at night.
-
Decorative cushions: Some bedding sets also include one or two decorative cushions or pillows that add color and visual interest to the bedroom.
-
Duvet covers: If you already have an insert, choose a bedding set with a matching duvet cover that will protect it and create a nicely coordinated look.
Special Features and Additions in Bed Sheet Sets
Modern bed sheet sets often come with features such as:
-
Deep Pockets: Some sheets have deep pockets to fit thicker mattresses securely.
-
Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Materials like Tencel or specific microfiber blends draw moisture away, providing a cooler sleep.
-
Anti-Wrinkle and Easy-Care: These sheets are designed with properties that make them low-maintenance and wrinkle-free.
-
Hypoallergenic Options: Certain sheets are specifically designed to be hypoallergenic, making them ideal for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.
Bed Sheet Set Sizes
Ensure you select sheet sets that match the correct, corresponding bed size. You can find the right one by matching the fitted sheet size with your specific mattress size:
-
Twin: 39” W x 79” L
-
Full: 54” W x 75” L
-
Queen: 60” W x 80” L
-
King: 76” W x 80” L
-
California King: 72” W x 84” L
Singly vs. Multi-Ply Sheets:
While the Thread Count standard was established to create a measure of quality in the industry, it has, unfortunately, evolved into an easy ploy used by Marketers to impress with artificially inflated thread count numbers.
Sometimes, to achieve higher thread counts, manufacturers resort to using 2-ply or even higher-ply threads. In easy terms, if two low-quality yarn fibers are twisted together and used to weave fabric, it is considered a two-ply fabric.
What to Know
A 400TC 2-ply fabric is similar to a 200TC single-ply fabric (this topic requires further attention, so more on this issue will be discussed in a later blog). We always recommend our customers stick with single-ply sheets for durability, quality, and feel.
Related Reading
- What to Look for in a Down Comforter
- Duck Down vs Goose Down
- Bed Sheet vs Bed Cover
- Best Time to Buy Sheets
- What Color Bed Sheets Should I Get
What To Look for When Shopping for Sheet Sets
Cotton outshines all other contenders for sheet sets due to its softness, durability, and luxurious feel. Long-staple cotton (like Pima or Egyptian cotton) is considered higher quality because those longer fibers make the fabric smoother and firmer.
Polyester sheets are more affordable than cotton, and they’re shrink- and wrinkle-resistant. Synthetic fabrics lack the luxurious feel of natural fibers.
Rayon, Linen, and Silk: Pros and Cons for Sheets
Rayon, viscose, and lyocell are called “regenerated cellulose” fibers because the raw material is some type of plant, which gets chemically processed into a fiber. They stand out for feeling incredibly soft; in fact, they’re usually softer than cotton, though they’re typically thinner and less substantial.
Linen is breathable and airy, making it most popular during summer. Silk is incredibly smooth and naturally temperature-regulating, but it’s expensive and high-maintenance for sheets, making it less ideal for most shoppers.
Construction: What’s the Weave?
How sheets are made impacts their performance and feel. Percale is a basic weave that feels light and crisp. It’s ideal for hot sleepers because it’s more breathable than sateen. Sateen is a satin weave that feels silky smooth. This fabric is usually preferred over percale by testers in our evaluations thanks to its softness and comfort.
Microfiber is made of polyester fibers that feel buttery soft. They’re typically inexpensive but may feel a bit flimsy compared to others. Microfiber sheets are also prone to shedding, in which the fibers break off during laundering and end up in our environment.
Flannel vs. Jersey Sheets: What’s the Difference?
Flannel is a brushed fabric that feels warm and cozy. It’s typically made of cotton, but you can also find it with polyester. Jersey is a stretchy knit material that feels more like a T-shirt. Usually made from cotton, these sheets are soft, although not typically as durable as percale or sateen, and may be prone to pilling.
Synthetic jersey sheets often feature performance moisture-wicking properties but may feel more like activewear than traditional bed sheets.
Mattress Height: Will They Fit My Bed?
Standard mattresses are typically 10 to 14 inches tall and shouldn’t have fit issues with most sheet sets. If your mattress is taller than 14 inches or you use a mattress topper, consider opting for a deep-pocket fitted sheet to ensure it stays securely in place without slipping.
You can also consider sheets that have a thick elastic band or extra straps to help secure it on the mattress, which is especially useful if you sleep on an adjustable bed.
Care Instructions: How Do I Clean Them?
Most sheets are machine washable, but some call for cold water or delicate cycles. Your sheets will be the cleanest if they’re washed in warm or hot water, so it’s best to opt for ones that can withstand these settings if you’re a sweaty sleeper or don’t wash your sheets regularly.
Organic Certifications: Are They Eco-Friendly?
Organic claims are commonly misused with bedding items. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the easiest way to verify whether sheets are truly organic, as it outlines strict standards throughout the entire production process, not just the cultivation of cotton or other natural fibers. You can double-check whether a brand is certified through the GOTS public database.
What to Avoid When Shopping for Sheets: Misinformation Can Lead You to the Wrong Choice
Sometimes, promises from bedding brands seem too good to be true, and usually, they are. Brands can get carried away with their marketing claims, which can mislead shoppers into buying sheets for the wrong reasons.
Here are some common factors that are prone to suspicious claims and what you need to know about them to avoid getting duped:
Thread Count
With the numerous fabrications developed over the years, thread count has become less critical, especially if the sheets are not made from 100% cotton. Although we often see top-performing cotton sheets in the 300- to 500-thread count range, it’s easy for brands to inflate the number. It’s best to examine the fiber content and construction to determine whether a set is right for you.
Bamboo, Eucalyptus, and Other Tree Fibers
Our scientists advise that these so-called “plant” sheets are made of rayon. While bamboo sheets may sound natural and luxurious, they undergo an intensive chemical process that removes all traces of the original plant.
Lyocell often follows a more sustainable manufacturing process than other types of rayon; there’s still no trace of bamboo, eucalyptus, or other plant fibers remaining after the chemical processing. This doesn’t mean the sheets are of low quality; just be mindful of any plant-content claims if that’s what's swaying your decision.
Self-Cleaning Fabrics
Some sheets claim to be “antimicrobial” because they contain silver-infused fibers or other finishes. Other sheets justify this claim because they dry faster, meaning there’s less opportunity for bacteria and organisms to grow. Some even claim that they stay fresher longer and can be washed less frequently.
Regardless of which claim you see, keep in mind that anything claiming to be antimicrobial is considered a pesticide and should be EPA-registered. We’ve also thoroughly reviewed data for several of these sheets and are not convinced that it means you can wash your sheets less frequently.
Eco-Friendly and Health-Related Claims
Brands sometimes say their sheets are better for you and the environment. Be cautious unless the product is certified organic by a trusted source, such as GOTS. Most sheets these days are certified to the Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex, which means that a finished fabric has been tested to ensure there are no unsafe levels of known harmful chemicals.
This certification does not guarantee that the fabric is organic or free of chemicals. This standard allows for low levels of chemicals in the finished fabric, but it doesn’t mean that no toxic chemicals are used in the manufacturing process.
Related Reading
- How Long Do Bed Sheets Last
- Duvet Thread Count Guide
- GSM vs Thread Count
- Microfiber vs Flannel Sheets
- Best Egyptian Cotton Sheets
- Best Sheets for Sensitive Skin
Get Deep Sleep Every Night with Our Cloud-like, Soft, Fluffy Duvets
Yumerest's PureFlow Duvet transforms your bedroom into a luxurious sanctuary, enveloping you in cloud-like softness with its exceptional 5kg filling, which promotes deeper and more restorative sleep.
Tradition Meets Restful Innovation
Crafted by expert artisans using techniques perfected since 1946, our duvets combine traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to deliver an unparalleled sleeping experience.
The PureFlow bundle, featuring our heavenly duvet, elegant cover, and calming sleep mist, creates a complete sleep sanctuary that helps busy professionals and parents finally achieve the rejuvenating rest they deserve.
Enjoy deep sleep every night with our cloud-like fluffy duvets.
