The Best Water Temperature for Washing Bedsheets

Materials

• Sheets can be found in a number of fabrics, including Egyptian, Pima and Muslin cotton, bamboo, jersey, satin, silk, flannel, acrylic and blends. Acrylic and blends represent the lowest-quality sheet fabrics. While flannel, jersey, satin and silk are some of the softest sheets, they can be hot during summer nights. Egyptian cotton sheets are the softest available cotton sheets but tend to be more expensive. Pima cotton is American, Australian and Peru and is silkier than Egyptian. Muslin cotton sheets are the roughest, lowest-quality cotton sheets available.

Thread Count

• The thread count of a fabric refers to the number of threads in each square inch. The higher the thread count, the softer the sheets. Thread count alone, however, is not the only indicator of sheet softness. The type and construction of the fabric plays a role as well. The best way to judge is to feel the fabric yourself.

Washing

• Sheets should be washed alone in cold water to prevent bacteria growth and minimize wear. Hot water will cause sheets to thin and fade. If possible, the gentle cycle and a front-loading machine or a top loader without an agitator should be used. Pour a gentle laundry detergent into the tub and fill partway with water, then add the sheets and continue the cycle. Sheets should be line-dried or air-tumbled in the dryer.

Tips

• Ultimately, sheets should be washed according to the manufacturer instructions. Bleach will break down fabrics even faster than heat and should be avoided. Instead, you can apply a stain solution and allow it to soak into the fabric before washing.