The Best Fitted Sheets

Thread Count

• The thread count of bed sheets is calculated as the number of threads per square inch. Silky thin threading produces higher quality in bed sheets. This is often due to the smooth texture it creates within the sheet. Thin threading increases the durability of bed sheets because it allows for the thread count to increase. Therefore, the more thread used to make your sheet, the stronger it will be. Quality bed sheets start at a thread count of 200.

Pure Cotton Sheets

• Cotton sheets come in different types and quality since they can be woven into many different fabrics. The quality of a cotton sheet is determined by appearance, staple length and the texture of the fabric. Staple length within a cotton sheet can range from extra-long to short (the longer, the better). This term is used to measure the thread count within cotton bed sheets. The two different types of cotton often used for bed sheets are American Upland cotton and Egyptian cotton. Nearly 90 percent of the world's cotton crop is derived from American Upland. Egyptian cotton contains longer, silkier fibers than American Upland cotton. Bed sheets labeled with 100 percent cotton remain the best quality for cotton-lovers; however, cotton still plays a role in the texture of other types of fitted bed sheets as well.

Flannel Sheets

• Flannel fitted sheets are an option for cold, winter nights. This bed sheet is thicker and fluffier in texture and less likely to get winkled. It is made by many manufacturers, but only comes in one texture type. High-quality flannel sheets resist piling and fading when washed. Quality is also determined by the increase of the flannel sheet's wool and cotton blend.

Satin Sheets

• Like flannel sheets, cotton can also be incorporated into satin sheets. The difference in thread count determines the texture of the sheet; however, high-quality satin sheets contain about a 300 or higher thread count with zero percent cotton. These types of bed sheets are known for offering a cool temperature and having a smooth texture. Silk is the more expensive option from polyester and a hypoallergenic substitute. Its durability is questionable since it requires more care than the other types of bed sheets. Most satin sheets are dry-clean only since the fabric is sensitive to many cleaning chemicals.