The best cotton sheets in the UK 2023

The quality of your sheets can make all the difference in bedroom decor and comfortable sleep. Despite competition from microfiber and the sophistication of silk and sateen, cotton sheets are still popular with households. And for this buying guide, we chose the AmazonBasics 400TC 275 x 275 cm. Wrinkle-free and wrinkle-resistant, it has a glossy satin finish.

AmazonBasics 400TC 275 x 275 cm 1
9/10

Best value for money

AmazonBasics 400TC 275 x 275 cm

The best cotton sheet in 2021

Available in 7 colors, this cotton flat sheet is certified wrinkle-free. Its shiny satin finish gives it a very refined look, adding character to your bedding.

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This AmazonBasics sheet has a 400 thread count weave. Its glossy satin finish as well as its wrinkle and crease resistant properties set it apart from the competition. You can find this flat cotton sheet in 3 sizes: 180 x 260 + 10 cm, 230 x 260 + 10 cm and 275 x 275 + 10 cm. And for the color, you can choose from beige, white, smoked blue, navy blue, gray, dark gray and water green. Also note that you can combine it with a fitted sheet from the same collection, but sold separately. To wash, put it in the machine at 60°C, but do not bleach it. You can also put it in the dryer at low temperature.

AmazonBasics Everyday Lilas 180 x 260 cm 2
8/10

Best value for money

AmazonBasics Everyday Lilas 180 x 260 cm

The best entry-level cotton sheet

This 100% cotton flat sheet has a density of 80 threads/cm². You can combine it with other sheets from the Everyday collection and choose from 11 colors.

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The AmazonBasics Everyday Lilac flat sheet is 100% breathable. Each thread that makes up the sheet has been woven over and under the next to create a nice soft, but not very durable pattern. In fact, the weave is limited to 80 threads/cm² or 200 threads/inch. In addition, this sheet comes in 3 sizes and 11 colors for each size. It will go perfectly with your bedding, even more so if you buy the comforter covers and fitted sheets from Amazon's Everyday cotton collection to give a consistent look to your bedding. Finally, you can machine wash it at 60°C and tumble dry it at low heat.

Angel's by BeeYourHome 3
9/10

Best value for money

Angel's by BeeYourHome

The best high-end cotton sheet

Made in Italy is the focus of this double bed set in high quality cotton percale, available in 7 colors. 2 pillowcases are also included.

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This Angel's Line cotton percale set by BeeYourHome illustrates the Italian know-how in bed linen. For just over 50 euros, you get 1 fitted sheet 180 x 200 cm, 1 flat sheet 240 x 290 cm and 2 pillowcases. The 4 pieces come in 7 colors to match your bedroom theme. The dyes used are certified, environmentally friendly and anti-allergic. The result: the fabrics are soft and velvety to the touch. About washing, you can do it by hand or in the machine at 40°C maximum. To optimize the longevity of the fabric, ironing should be done at 150°C maximum.

Vesgantti Large Cap 35CM 4
8/10

Fitted sheet

Vesgantti Large Cap 35CM

A great cotton fitted sheet

You don't necessarily need a flat sheet but only a fitted sheet. If this is the case, we recommend the Vesgantti Large Bonnet 35CM, 100% made of Egyptian cotton.

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Breathable and hypoallergenic, this fitted sheet in Egyptian cotton is woven with 250 threads/cm². We like its softness and its smooth and cozy texture, an invitation to slip into the sheets! The fabric respects the skin perfectly and allows a good air circulation as well as a good evacuation of the perspiration. You can use it all year round. This vergantti fitted sheet is available in 5 sizes, from 90 x 190 cm to 180 x 200 cm. For machine washing, use the standard mode. You should also know that you will need to wash it before the first use.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best cotton sheet

Any specific needs?

The best cotton sheet in 2021

The best entry-level cotton sheet

The best high-end cotton sheet

A great cotton fitted sheet

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Comparison table of the best cotton sheets

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
AmazonBasics 400TC 275 x 275 cm 5
9/10
AmazonBasics Everyday Lilas 180 x 260 cm 6
8/10
Angel's by BeeYourHome 7
9/10
Vesgantti Large Cap 35CM 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
AmazonBasics 400TC 275 x 275 cm
AmazonBasics Everyday Lilas 180 x 260 cm
Angel's by BeeYourHome
Vesgantti Large Cap 35CM
Available in 7 colors, this cotton flat sheet is certified wrinkle-free. Its shiny satin finish gives it a very refined look, adding character to your bedding.
This 100% cotton flat sheet has a density of 80 threads/cm². You can combine it with other sheets from the Everyday collection and choose from 11 colors.
Made in Italy is the focus of this double bed set in high quality cotton percale, available in 7 colors. 2 pillowcases are also included.
You don't necessarily need a flat sheet but only a fitted sheet. If this is the case, we recommend the Vesgantti Large Bonnet 35CM, 100% made of Egyptian cotton.
Available sizes
3
3
1
7
Available colors
7
11
7
2
Fabrics
400 threads/cm²
80 threads/cm²
-
200 threads/cm²
Maximum machine wash temperature
60 °C
60 °C
40 °C
40 °C
Type
Flat sheet
Flat sheet
Set (flat sheet + fitted sheet + pillow cases)
Fitted sheet

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Buying guide - cotton sheet

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How to choose your cotton sheet

There are three factors that determine the quality and feel of a sheet: the fiber it is made from, the way the fabric is woven, and the thread count. When evaluating a sheet, look for these three key pieces of information to find the best sheet.

#1 - The fiber

The most common fiber used in sheets is cotton. There are three main varieties of cotton: Pima cotton, Egyptian cotton and organic cotton. Traditionally grown in Peru, Pima cotton is a variety of cotton with extra long fibers. It is highly valued for its breathability and moisture absorption, as well as its longevity. Widely considered one of the best cottons available, Egyptian cotton is known for its clean, breathable construction. Finally, organic cotton must meet certain requirements for its growth and cultivation. The plants cannot be grown with GMO seeds and farmers must avoid using chemical pesticides and fertilizers.

#2 - Weaving

Each weave has different characteristics. Percale is a plain weave fabric, meaning that the warp and weft threads cross over each other and intersect one after the other. The threads are tightly woven, resulting in a fine texture and finish.

#3 - The number of wires

Thread count refers to the number of threads making up 1 cm² of fabric, including both horizontal and vertical threads. This number ranges from 150 stitches (typically found in low-cost sheets or children's bedding) to 1,000 or more (for the most expensive luxury sheets). In general, a sheet with a higher thread count will be more durable and softer to the touch. A thread count of 80 is a good standard; a count of 300 will be noticeably softer. But above a certain point, you won't be able to feel the difference.

#4 - The pattern

Add

a splash of color to your bedroom with a patterned sheet set. Pair your sheet set with a solid comforter cover to bring a touch of pattern and interest to your bedroom style, or coordinate it with a patterned comforter cover for a complementary look.

#5 - The size

Before choosing a sheet set, be sure to measure the height of your mattress. Each fitted sheet is designed for mattresses up to a certain thickness; this measurement is known as the pocket depth, or sometimes just the depth. Cotton tends to shrink a bit in the wash, so we recommend leaving a few extra inches between the profile of your bed and the pocket depth measurement shown.

How do I care for a cotton sheet?

Most sheets contain chemicals that prevent them from softening before their first wash. Here are some steps to loosen your sheets after you buy them.

  • Remove from the package and place in the washing machine with 1 cup of baking soda.
  • Wash in warm water on a regular cycle without detergent as it tends to block the chemicals you are trying to remove from your new sheets.
  • Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle and set the temperature to cold.
  • Remove the sheets from the machine and hang them to dry in the sun. The natural drying process is beneficial in softening them to a new state.
  • Once they are dry, wash them again with regular detergent and water temperature.
  • Dry in a tumble dryer.

High quality cotton sheets will be softer with each wash. If durability and softness are important to you, cotton sheets with a high thread count should make comfortable and durable sheets.

Why buy a cotton sheet ?

A breathable fabric

Cotton is a pure and natural material, which means that when woven into a bedding set, it makes the fabric breathable. Every night, your body temperature changes when you fall asleep. This often results in waking up hot, sticky and desperate for some fresh air.

Brilliantly, cotton will absorb your body heat all night, keeping you cool and dry. In addition to keeping you cool in the summer, cotton bedding will keep you warm throughout the winter by absorbing and retaining your body heat. If you sleep in synthetic or man-made materials, such as polyester, they will absorb your body heat rather than ventilate naturally, so the fabric will retain your heat and you will struggle to cool down.

Gentle on the skin

If you have sensitive skin, avoid irritating it all night as much as possible. Cotton is naturally hypoallergenic, so has a limited association with allergies, and will not cause any irritation or itching, improving your quality of sleep.

The cotton sheet is durable

As well as enjoying the quality of your sleep, buying cotton bedding could save you a few pennies in the long run. It may be tempting to opt for a cheaper artificial alternative, as cotton (especially high quality cotton) will cost a little more.

However, it's worth considering the lifespan of your bedding. A natural cotton bedding set can last almost twice as long as any artificial alternative, so you won't need to replace it as often.

Low maintenance

There seems to be a myth that cotton is labor intensive. It isn't. There's no hand washing, drying or hours of ironing involved. Most cotton sheets should go straight into the machine and be washed as usual at 40 degrees. Avoid mixing your cotton with non-textiles, in fact, always wash it alone.

Not only will the bedding wash better, but you will also avoid overloading your machine. There's no need for fancy detergents, and you can even put it in the dryer (keep it on a low setting). Take it out when it is still slightly damp and dry flat, this will help reduce the amount of ironing it needs.

Tips

Wash your sheets at least every two weeks

Sheets absorb your body oils, sweat and germs. This residue builds up quickly and can even cause dust mites. You should wash your sheets at least every two weeks, including your flat sheets, pillowcases and even comforter covers. If you can wash your sheets weekly, that's even better.

Follow the care instructions and avoid very hot water

When

cotton sheets are soiled, get rid of all the dirt and stains by washing them with very hot water. However, hot water will shrink and discolor the sheets over time. Heat also deteriorates the high quality cotton fibers. The golden rule is to follow the care instructions on the label.

Avoid using detergent

A

harsh detergent can damage the high quality cotton fibers in your sheets. Using a mild detergent and a small amount of fabric softener will help extend the life of your sheets and keep them soft and durable.

Wash sheets separately

If

you're in the habit of washing your sheets with your towels and even your denim jeans, you'll want to stop this bad habit. It can cause rubbing and can end up reducing their quality and durability. Towels and clothes also require more water to wash, so mixing your sheets in the same cycle will result in longer drying times.

Dry your sheets at low temperature

To

prevent your sheets from shrinking over time, don't dry them on high heat. Instead, dry your sheets on low heat. And if they're still damp at the end of the cycle, consider hanging them up to dry. Over time, high heat will cause your cotton sheets to shrink and even tear.

FAQ

What is the best cotton sheet?

The best cotton sheet depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide to find the best products available.

Which sheets are the coolest and best for summer?

Cotton and linen are the best contenders for staying cool in hot weather.

What are the softest materials for sheets?

When it comes to softness, cotton is ideal.

How to keep sheets fresh and hygienic?

Ironing your bedding will kill any remaining bacteria.

How much will my sheets shrink in the wash?

The leaves can shrink up to 7% after the first wash.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. , thespruce.com
  2. , forbes.com
  3. , realsimple.com
  4. , goodhousekeeping.com
  5. , Deco.fr
  6. , marieclaire.fr
  7. , nytimes.com
  8. , maisonbrico.com
  9. , nymag.com
  10. , laredoute.fr
  11. , amazon.co.uk
  12. , amazon.co.uk
  13. , laredoute.fr
  14. , cdiscount.com
  15. , francoisesaget.com
  16. , francoisesaget.com
  17. , ebay.fr
  18. , daxon.fr
  19. , baralinge.com
  20. , 3suisses.fr
  21. , mondialtissus.fr
  22. , noctea.com
  23. , lacompagniedublanc.com
  24. , linenchest.com
  25. , becquet.fr
  26. , m.damart.fr
  27. , ikea.com
  28. , auchan.fr
  29. , dodo.fr
  30. , evesleep.fr
  31. , 3suisses.fr
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
AmazonBasics 400TC 275 x 275 cm 9
AmazonBasics 400TC 275 x 275 cm
AmazonBasics Everyday Lilas 180 x 260 cm 10
AmazonBasics Everyday Lilas 180 x 260 cm
Angel's by BeeYourHome 11
Angel's by BeeYourHome
Vesgantti Large Cap 35CM 12
Vesgantti Large Cap 35CM

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