The 6 Best Bed Sheets in 2026
We put the best sheets to the test to find our top picks for comfort, cooling, and long-lasting quality. See which made the cut.
- We chose the Saatva Essential Luxury Sheet Set as the Best Sheets Overall. It was a top performer in our tests for comfort, durability, and fit. It was also one of the most affordable sheet sets we tested.
- The best sheets in this roundup cost between $125–$239 for a queen-size set before discounts.
- Thread count is a measure of a sheet's softness and density, but it can be misleading. Quality cotton (like Egyptian or Pima) matters more than a high thread count. For some materials like bamboo, lower thread counts are normal.
- We found that breathable materials like cotton, bamboo, and Tencel can help regulate temperature and improve overall sleep comfort.
NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. So we take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent thousands of hours researching and testing sheets to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best sheets, we:
- Consulted with sleep specialists like doctors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists for guidance on choosing the best sheets
- Put numerous models through a series of 8 different tests at our in-house lab
- Mystery-shopped more than 10 brands
- Surveyed more than 2,000 older adults on their sleep quality
- Interviewed experts on the importance of good sleep for older adults
- Worked with older adult testers to evaluate sheets and get their opinion
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
We’re constantly testing new sheets and sleep products to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our sleep accessories review methodology.
Even if you’ve invested in one of the best mattresses, sheets are an important layer between the mattress and your body. Research has even found that bedsheets can make a big difference in how well you rest.1 But there’s so much more to choosing the best sheets than finding a high thread count. “The biggest misconception is that higher thread count equals better quality,” said Fredrik Kempe, founder and CEO at Prossioni, a high-end European bed linen brand. “In reality, yarn quality and construction matter far more. The main reason is because thread counts above 400–500 don’t breathe so get sweaty to sleep in.”
A good set of sheets will feel comfortable, breathe well to keep you from overheating, and can be cleaned without too much trouble. We put more than a dozen popular options to the test to find the best bed sheets for every type of sleeper. Our top pick overall is the Saatva Essential Luxury Sheets because they earned high scores across all our testing categories. And our testers called them the most comfortable sheets they tried. Read on to learn more about how we tested and how to find the right sheets for you.
Saatva Essential Luxury Sheet Set
- Strong performance across comfort, durability, and fit in our testing
- Lightweight, breathable fabric that helps keep you cool
- High-quality materials at a more affordable price than many competitors
Nectar Serenity Bamboo Sheet Set
- Noticeably cool and breathable feel
- Soft, smooth fabric with a balanced blend of structure and comfort
- Good overall value for a cooling-focused sheet set
Tempur-Pedic Classic Cotton Sheet Set
- Durable cotton that holds up well over time
- Secure fit with corner straps and labeled sides for easy bed-making
- Reliable quality from a well-known sleep brand
Best Sheets in 2026
- Saatva Essential Luxury Sheet Set: Best Sheets Overall
- Nectar Serenity Bamboo Sheet Set: Best Cooling Sheets
- Tempur-Pedic Classic Cotton Sheet Set: Best Cotton Sheets
- Brooklinen Luxe Sateen Core Sheet Set: Best Luxury Sheets
- Bear Tencel Sheet Set: Best Fitted Sheets
- Silk & Snow Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set: Best Egyptian Cotton Sheets
Comparing the best sheets
| Comparison Features | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Score (out of 10) | 9.9 |
9.2 |
9.6 |
7.3 |
9.1 |
9.7 |
| Best for | Overall |
Cooling |
Cotton |
Luxury |
Fitted |
Egyptian Cotton |
| Materials | Long-staple cotton in a percale weave blended with 45% viscose |
48% bamboo rayon, 52% polyester |
100% long-staple cotton (flat sheet); 98% long-staple cotton (fitted sheet) |
100% long-staple cotton, 480 thread count |
100% Tencel sateen fabric |
100% certified long-staple Egyptian cotton |
Top features of the best sheets
We looked for the following features when choosing the best sheets
Saatva Essential Luxury Sheets: Best Overall
The Saatva Essential Luxury Sheets stand out because they feel soft, smooth, cool, and lightweight. They're made with high-quality materials that hold up well over time. We also liked that they're one of the most affordable sheet sets we tested.
- Saatva Mattress Review
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified for low levels of harmful substances
- Fits mattresses up to 16 inches with strong elastic to keep fitted sheet in place
- High ratings for durability and comfort from our testers
- Sheet material: Long-staple cotton in a percale weave blended with 45% viscose
- Cooling technology: Lightweight and breathable cotton-viscose blend
- Fits mattresses: Up to 16 inches
- Trial period: 45 nights
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Soft and smooth without feeling too heavy
- Durable and resists tearing or signs of wear
- Sleeps cool and helps regulate temperature
Cons
- May fit a bit loose on mattresses less than 16 inches thick
- No corner straps for extra hold
- Not made from completely natural fibers
Why our testers chose the Saatva Essential Luxury Sheets as the Best Overall
These sheets earned our highest overall score of 9.9/10, with perfect 5/5 marks for both durability and materials. Testers found them strong, breathable, and comfortable, with a soft feel that worked well for many sleep styles. The fabric felt cool at first touch and stayed comfortable through the night.
“The quality of the sheets is exceptional,” said one tester. “This is exactly how I want my cotton sheets to feel: smooth, soft, non-scratchy, and just a touch of butteriness. This material is so smooth that it's impressive. I also really enjoy the initial cooling sensation I get when I first touch them. They feel like high-quality hotel sheets.”
Testers also liked how well the sheets held up during stress tests. “No matter how hard I pulled along the seam, these sheets did not rip,” said one tester. “I was impressed with their performance on the tear test. And even without corner straps, the fitted sheet stayed in place with strong elastic."
The Saatva customer experience
- Trial period: 45 nights
- Shipping: Free
- Warranty: 1 year
Customer service
You can contact Saatva customer service by:
- Phone: Call 860-362-2641, available 24/7
- Email: info@saatvamattress.com
- Live chat: Available 24/7
You can learn more about the brand's customer experience in our Saatva mattress review.
Nectar Serenity Bamboo Sheet Set: Best Cooling Sheets
The Nectar Serenity Bamboo Sheets earned a top score for cooling in our tests because they're made from a naturally breathable, moisture-wicking fiber. Our testers also commented on the smooth, cool feel of these sheets.
- Nectar Mattress Review
- Designed for hot sleepers
- Bamboo blend fiber is soft and breathable
- Sheet material: 48% bamboo rayon, 52% polyester
- Cooling technology: Breathable bamboo
- Fits mattresses: Up to 15 inches
- Trial: 30 nights
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Strong cooling performance with a breathable design
- Soft, smooth feel
- Midrange price
Cons
- Some durability concerns, especially at the seams
- Not a natural fiber, no certifications
- 30-night trial period is among the shortest we found
Why our testers chose the Nectar Serenity Bamboo Sheet Set as the Best Cooling Sheets
While this set didn’t earn our top cooling score, the Nectar Serenity Bamboo Sheet Set is our pick for Best Cooling Sheets because of its overall performance and value. Naturally porous bamboo fibers let air flow freely, so heat doesn't get trapped under the covers with you. Our testers rated it a 9/10 for cooling. “The sheets felt slightly cool when I first climbed into bed, and they have a sleekness to them that’s more refreshing than cozy,” said one tester. “After a while, I felt myself settle in more, and the sheets adapted to my body temperature. I think hot sleepers will find good temperature regulation from these sheets overall.”
Testers also commented that these sheets are lightweight and drape the body nicely without feeling thin or cheap. “They’re a bamboo/rayon blend, so they don’t feel as buttery as true bamboo viscose,” said one tester. “They feel like cotton and bamboo had a baby, making a hybrid sheet that has the softness of bamboo but the structure of cotton. They feel more elevated than simple cotton sheets, yet don’t have a super high price tag.”
While they offer good value for the price, some testers noted small durability issues, like loose threads and seams that didn’t hold up under stress. Even so, most said they would use these sheets every day because of how comfortable they felt.
The Nectar customer experience
- Trial period: 30 nights
- Shipping: Free
- Warranty: 1 year
Customer service
You can reach Nectar customer service by:
- Phone: Call 888-863-2827, available seven days a week, 24/7
- Email: support@nectarsleep.com
- Chat: Live chat available seven days a week, 24/7
You can learn more about the brand's customer experience in our Nectar mattress review.
Tempur-Pedic Classic Cotton Sheet Set: Best Cotton Sheets
We liked the Tempur-Pedic Classic Cotton Sheet Set because of its durability and secure fit, which is made easier by corner straps and clear labels on each side. It may work well for people who want a natural fiber like long-staple cotton from a brand with a reputation for quality sleep products.
- Strong long-staple cotton fabric
- Thick elastic corner bands for a secure fit
- Labeled sides for easier bed-making
- Sheet material: Long-staple cotton
- Cooling technology: Breathable cotton fiber
- Fits mattresses: Up to 13 inches
- Trial: None
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Very durable and long-lasting
- Stays securely on the mattress
- Good value for a well-known brand
Cons
- No trial period
- Initial feel may be rough, but testers say this softens with washing
- Not great for hot sleepers
- May not fit mattresses thicker than 13 inches
Why our testers chose the Tempur-Pedic Classic Cotton Sheet Set as the Best Cotton Sheets
If you want a basic, natural-fiber sheet that holds up well over time, the Tempur-Pedic Classic Cotton Sheet Set may be a good fit. “High-quality bedding typically starts with long-staple cotton,” said Kempe. “Ideally, cotton that is certified by standards such as GOTS and Fairtrade, which ensure both environmental responsibility and better fiber integrity. Better raw materials result in softer, more durable fabrics.” Our testers gave these sheets a high overall score (9.6/10) with a perfect 5/5 for durability. “These passed the rip test,” said one tester. “No matter how hard I tugged along the seams, they didn’t pull or tear. I was impressed with the durability. I think these could be good guest room sheets that will hold up for a long time.”
Testers also liked how much easier it is to use and care for these sheets. They have tags labeling the sides so you can make the bed right the first time. Corner straps help the sheets stay in place, even if you move a lot at night. Testers noted the cotton sheets can initially have an odd feel, but a few washes soften them up. “While I’m not a fan of the material, the quality is decent, and the price is fantastic, especially for a recognizable brand like Tempur-Pedic,” said one tester.
The Tempur-Pedic customer experience
- Trial period: None, all sales of sheets are final
- Shipping: Free
- Warranty: 1 year
Customer service
- Phone: Call 888-811-5053, available Monday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
- Email: customer.service@tempurpedic.com
- Chat: Automated chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available 24/7. Live chat agents available Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.
- In-store: Multiple locations across the United States
Brooklinen Luxe Sateen Core Sheet Set: Best Luxury Sheets
We were impressed by the high quality of the Brooklinen Luxe Sateen Core Sheet Set, which is made of third-party-certified long-staple cotton. These sheets had a comfortable feel and a great fit. When our testers ran into trouble with durability, the brand’s customer service had an excellent response.
- 100% long-staple cotton with a 480 thread count
- OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified (free from harmful chemicals)
- “Long side” and “short side” tags for easier bed-making
- Sheet material: 100% long-staple cotton
- Cooling technology: Breathable natural fibers
- Fits mattresses: 15 inches
- Trial: 365 nights
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Longest trial period of any sheet set on this list (365 nights)
- Plenty of color and pattern options
- Soft, smooth feel that improves with washing
- Good fit that stays in place without slipping
Cons
- Most expensive sheet set on this list
- Durability concerns, including reports of tearing
- May not be good for hot sleepers
Why our testers chose the Brooklinen Luxe Sateen Core Sheet Set as the Best Luxury Sheets
The Brooklinen Luxe Sateen Core Sheet Set is the priciest option in this roundup. But we felt the quality and customer service helped justify the cost. We also like that these sheets come in a variety of colors and patterns. This natural fiber sheet set has a clean, classic look. And it's made with high-quality, certified long-staple cotton, which has a stronger, softer, and more durable feel than traditional cotton. Our testers liked the fabric straight out of the package. “These sheets feel relatively smooth and comfortable,” said one tester. “They do get softer with extra washes. And I find them to be cool to the touch.”
Testers also liked the thoughtful design details, like envelope enclosures on the pillowcases and "long side” and “short side” tags that made the bed easier to make. They were impressed by the smooth fit and lack of bunching. “I've never had them pull off the corners, which is my pet peeve with sheets,” said one tester. There were some concerns about durability when a sheet ripped, but the customer service response and replacement was immediate.
The Brooklinen customer experience
- Trial period: 365 nights
- Shipping: Free (for orders over $100)
- Warranty: 1 year
Customer service
You can contact Brooklinen customer service by:
- Phone: 646-798-7447
- Email: hello@brooklinen.com
- Live chat: Available on the website
Bear Tencel Sheet Set: Best Fitted Sheets
The Bear Tencel Sheet Set stands out for its deep pockets and strong elastic, which help the fitted sheet stay in place on thicker mattresses (up to 15 inches). Our testers also thought the sheet set felt very soft and cool.
- Bear Mattress Review
- 100% Tencel sateen fabric that feels smooth and silky
- Pockets adjust to fit 10- to 15-inch mattresses
- Naturally cooling, breathable, and moisture-wicking
- Sheet material: 100% Tencel
- Cooling technology: Tencel fiber
- Fits mattresses: Up to 15 inches
- Trial: 30 nights
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Soft, silky fabric resists wrinkles
- Stays cool and breathable all night
- Made from sustainable fiber with carbon-neutral manufacturing
Cons
- Has one of the shorter trial periods (30 nights)
- More expensive than most of the other sheets on this list
- Texture may be slippery to some
Why our testers chose the Bear Tencel Sheet Set as the Best Fitted Sheets
The Bear Tencel fitted sheet has deep pockets, which helps it fit securely on thicker mattresses, like hybrid mattresses, even without extra corner straps. Testers loved the texture of these sheets, which are made from Tencel Lyocell, a sustainable fiber made from the eucalyptus plant. They noted how soft and smooth they felt right out of the package and awarded them a perfect 5/5 score for materials.
“These rock,” said one tester. “They’re extremely cool to the touch, which feels super comforting on the skin when I first crawled into bed. I also love how smooth they are. They’re super silky because of the sateen weave, and the Tencel makes them some of the softest sheets I have ever felt. They drape the body super close, almost clinging. I like how they feel like a smooth, silky second skin.”
Testers also liked how the fabric regulated temperature, much like the best cooling mattresses. “These feel super cool—actually cold almost. I love the way they feel on the skin,” said one tester. “Tencel is naturally breathable and cooling, and I think the material really shines in this category. They're not too heavy or stiff. They're lightweight and breathable enough to stay cool all night. I would for sure recommend these to hot sleepers.”
Our only complaint with these sheets was their durability. One pillowcase ripped along the seam in our tests. Tencel fibers can weaken, especially when wet. So these may tear if they snag on something. But they're backed by a one-year warranty.
The Bear customer experience
- Trial period: 30 nights
- Shipping: Free
- Warranty: 1 year
Customer service
You can reach Bear customer service by:
- Phone: Call 844-311-0035, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
- Email: support@bearmattress.com
- Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
You can learn more about the brand's customer experience in our Bear mattress review.
Silk & Snow Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set: Best Egyptian Cotton Sheets
The Silk & Snow Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set is made from third-party certified materials known for their softness, strength, and breathability. These sheets impressed us with their quality for the price.
- Certified long-staple Egyptian cotton with traceable sourcing
- Soft and breathable sateen weave
- Natural fiber with OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification
- Sheet material: Egyptian cotton
- Cooling technology: Breathable weave, natural fiber
- Fits mattresses: Up to 15 inches
- Trial: 100 nights
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Very soft and comfortable with a smooth feel
- High-quality materials
- Didn’t trap heat in testing
Cons
- Fabric may snag or tear more easily than expected
- May require more delicate washing
- Slightly oversized fit on some mattresses
Why our testers chose the Silk & Snow Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set as the Best Egyptian Cotton Sheets
The Silk & Snow Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set stood out because it offers a premium product at the lowest price on this list. The sheets are made with certified Egyptian cotton, which is known for its high quality and breathability. Our testers were impressed by the texture. “I love the way these feel,” one said. “They’re soft and structured like you’d expect from cotton, but they aren’t too stiff. They have a buttery sensation to them that feels really luxurious and comforting.”
While the feel and quality stood out, there were a few small drawbacks. The fitted sheet design is deep, and it required more tucking than usual on a thinner mattress. Also, the fabric may be a bit delicate over time, especially if it snags or is washed roughly.
For our testers, the positives outweighed those concerns. “I really liked the feel of these sheets,” said one. “As a lover of everything cozy, I appreciated how buttery soft and smooth they felt. The materials have also earned two separate certifications, which makes me confident that they're not filled with chemicals. I also really like how transparent Silk & Snow is when it comes to how they make their products and where the materials are sourced.”
The Silk & Snow customer experience
- Trial period: 100 nights
- Shipping: Free
- Warranty: 1 year
Customer service
You can contact Silk & Snow customer service by:
- Phone: 1-877-672-2882
- Email: hello@silkandsnow.com
- Live chat: Available on the website
- Calling or visiting a viewing room
How we tested the best sheets
Our team has spent thousands of hours researching and testing mattresses, sheets, and other sleep accessories so you can feel confident in our reviews. We spoke with experts to learn which features are most important. For this review, we personally tested over a dozen sheet sets. Each set was put through rigorous testing by older adults to ensure we have real-world data on how they perform. We considered these key factors when testing the best sheets.
Materials
We asked testers to assess how the sheets felt right out of the package and again after laundering. We also reviewed what materials were used and whether they carried any third-party certifications for safety or quality.
Cooling
Testers noted whether the sheets felt cool when they first got into bed and how breathable they were throughout the night. Some sets use materials designed to help regulate temperature, either by cooling or retaining warmth.
Feel
We evaluated how soft, smooth, and comfortable each sheet set felt during use. We also took note of whether the sheets became cozier or softer after multiple washes.
Fit
Testers reported how well the sheets stayed in place, especially when moving around in bed. We also looked for helpful features like labeled corners or elastic straps, and noted the maximum mattress depth each allows for.
Long-term durability
To gauge durability, testers lay on the sheets, tugged at them, and stretched the fabric to see how well it held up and how much elasticity it maintained over time.
Ease of care
We considered whether the sheets could be machine washed, and whether they required a special detergent, cycle, or other considerations. We also looked at whether they could be machine dried.
Customer experience
We reviewed policies like trial periods, shipping and return costs, warranties, and overall customer support. While sheets are typically less expensive than mattresses, it’s still important that brands stand behind their products and address any concerns.
What else to look for when choosing bed sheets
Finding the best sheets goes beyond picking a color or pattern. The right bed sheets can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel at night—especially if you sleep hot, prefer a crisp feel, or want something soft and cozy. Knowing what features matter most can help you narrow down the best sheet sets for your needs and sleep style. Some things to think about:
Materials and fabric types
Materials play a big role in how quality bed sheets feel and perform. Cotton is one of the most common options, including Egyptian cotton bed sheets, which are known for their softness and durability. But cotton tends to wrinkle more than, say, bamboo. Each material has its own strengths, so look into the best choice for you.
Thread count and weave
“Thread count should be viewed with caution,” said Kempe. “While it can indicate quality, excessively high thread counts (often 600+) are frequently achieved by using multi-ply yarns, which can make fabrics heavier and less breathable.” A thread count between 200 and 400 is usually good for most quality bed sheets, depending on the material and weave. “In terms of feel, weave plays the biggest role,” Kempe said. “Percale feels crisp and airy. Sateen feels smoother and sits closer to the body.”
Cooling and breathability
If you tend to overheat at night, cooling bed sheets are worth considering. The best sheets for hot sleepers are usually made from breathable materials like cotton, bamboo, or linen that help wick away moisture and allow more air to flow. Some sheets are designed with special cooling features. But natural fibers are often just as good at keeping you comfortable throughout the night.
Fit and pocket depth
A good fit helps your sheets stay in place and feel comfortable. Look for best sheet sets that match your mattress depth, especially if you have a thicker mattress or use a mattress topper. Deep-pocket sheets or sets with strong elastic can help prevent slipping. This is important if you move around a lot in your sleep.
Durability and long-term value
High-quality bed sheets should hold up well over time without pilling or thinning. Materials like bamboo and linen tend to be more durable than traditional cotton, making them a better long-term investment. Long-staple cotton is also known for its durability—it's made with longer cotton fibers that create a softer and stronger product more resistant to frequent washing. While some options may cost more upfront, the most comfortable sheets are often the ones that maintain their feel and structure after many washes.
Ease of care
Some sheets are easier to care for than others. Cotton and bamboo bed sheets are usually machine washable. Silk bed sheets may require more delicate care. If you want low-maintenance bedding, look for options that can be washed and dried at home without special instructions.
Trial periods and warranties
The credibility of the brand and third-party certifications often tell you more than marketing claims, said Kempe. It’s also important to understand that sheets may perform differently over time. “Some fabrics are treated to feel extra soft initially, but lose that quality after washing,” said Kempe. “In many cases, you can only really tell after 5–10 washes. This is when you know if you bought something long-lasting.” For those reasons, a trial period or satisfaction guarantee can be helpful. Check the details to know what is offered before making a purchase.
How much do the best sheets cost?
The best sheets in this roundup cost between $125–$239 for a queen-size set before discounts. Common factors that affect the price include size, materials, and any third-party certifications.
| Comparison Features | Saatva Essential Luxury Sheet Set |
Nectar Serenity Bamboo Sheet Set |
Tempur-Pedic Classic Cotton Sheet Set |
Brooklinen Luxe Sateen Core Sheet Set |
Bear Tencel Sheet Set |
Silk & Snow Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost for a queen/king* | $135 |
$150 |
$139 |
$239 |
$205 |
$125 |
| Shipping costs | Free |
Free |
Free |
$6 for orders under $100, free for orders over $100 |
Free |
Free |
| Sleep trial/warranty | 45 nights, 1 year warranty |
30 nights, 1 year warranty |
No trial period, 1 year warranty |
365 nights, 1 year warranty |
30 nights, 1 year warranty |
100 nights, 1 year warranty |
| Return fees | None |
None |
No returns, final sale |
$9.95 |
None |
None |
*Most sleep brands run frequent or ongoing promotions. Sale prices are typically lower and may change often.
Frequently asked questions
How can you tell if sheets are high-quality?
High-quality bed sheets are made from durable materials like long-staple cotton and feel smooth and well-constructed. They should also hold up well after washing without pilling or losing their shape.
Is 100% cotton better than Egyptian cotton?
Not always. Egyptian cotton bed sheets are made from 100% cotton and feature longer fibers, which can make them softer and more durable. But regular cotton sheets can still be high quality depending on how they’re made.
What material is best for hot sleepers?
Cooling bed sheets made from breathable materials like cotton, bamboo, or linen are usually best for hot sleepers. These fabrics help wick moisture and allow for more airflow to keep you cool.
What kind of sheets do 5-star hotels use?
Many hotels use high-quality cotton sheets, often with a percale weave for a crisp, cool feel. Some also use high-thread-count sheets for a smoother finish.
What is the best thread count for sheets?
The best thread count for most sheets is between 200 and 400, depending on the material. But higher thread counts do not always mean better quality, especially if the fabric itself is lower grade.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.