Bedroom ideas
soft sheets vs. rough sheets: which is the better fit for you
By Eleanor Vance
Published: 17 May 2025
“The best things in life are free. The second best are very expensive.” ― Coco Chanel
Soft Sheets vs. Rough Sheets: Which is the better fit for you?
I’ll never forget the time I stayed at this adorable bed and breakfast in Vermont. Everything was perfect – the quaint little town, the smell of fresh maple syrup in the air, and, oh my goodness, the sheets! They were like sleeping on a cloud. Seriously, the best sleep I’d had in ages. It got me thinking, though: what makes a perfect set of sheets, anyway? And is there really a 'best' option? Let’s dive in, shall we?
cozy bed and breakfast bedroom | Image: Supplied
The Great Sheet Debate: Softness vs. Texture
close up of different sheet textures | Image: Supplied
Okay, let’s be real. We all have that one friend (or maybe you're that friend!) who’s obsessed with ultra-soft, silky smooth sheets. And then there’s the other camp, the ones who prefer a little bit of texture, a little grip, if you will. Neither preference is wrong, BTW! It all comes down to personal preference, what feels good to you, and, honestly, what you're used to. But here’s a quick rundown of the main contenders:
- Soft Sheets: Think Egyptian cotton, Supima cotton, bamboo, or silk. These are often tightly woven, creating a smooth, almost slippery surface. They feel luxurious and can be great for sensitive skin. I once bought a set of silk sheets on sale (total splurge!), and while they felt amazing, they were also super slippery. My duvet kept sliding off all night! Live and learn, right?
woman touching soft egyptian cotton sheets | Image: Supplied
- Rough Sheets: Think linen or percale cotton. These have a more open weave and a slightly coarser texture. They can feel crisp and cool, and many people find them more breathable. My grandmother swore by linen sheets. She said they were the only thing that kept her cool during those hot summer nights. And honestly, she was onto something!
close up of linen sheet texture | Image: Supplied
Thread Count: Does It Really Matter?
magnifying glass examining sheet threads | Image: Supplied
Ah, thread count. The age-old question! You’ve probably heard that higher thread count always equals better quality. But here's a little secret: that's not always true. Thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads per square inch of fabric. While a higher thread count can indicate a softer, more durable sheet, it can also be a marketing gimmick. Some manufacturers use thinner threads and double or triple the count to inflate the numbers. Sneaky, huh?
So, what should you look for? Focus on the quality of the fibers and the type of weave. A good quality cotton percale sheet with a thread count of 200-400 can be just as comfortable (or even more so!) than a low-quality sheet with a thread count of 800.
woman sleeping comfortably on percale sheets | Image: Supplied
Material Matters: Breaking Down the Best Options
various types of sheet materials displayed | Image: Supplied
Let's get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about materials. Each type has its own unique feel, benefits, and drawbacks. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the world of sheet fabrics:
- Cotton: The classic choice! Cotton sheets are breathable, durable, and relatively affordable. Egyptian and Supima cotton are known for their long fibers, which create a smoother, softer fabric. Percale cotton is crisp and cool, while sateen cotton is silky and luxurious. My go-to is usually a good quality cotton percale – it's just so breathable, especially in summer.
stack of colorful cotton sheets | Image: Supplied
- Linen: Made from flax fibers, linen sheets are strong, durable, and incredibly breathable. They have a slightly rough texture that softens with each wash. Linen is also naturally hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking, making it a great choice for hot sleepers. Just a warning, they can wrinkle a lot!
rumpled linen bedsheets | Image: Supplied
- Bamboo: Bamboo sheets are incredibly soft, silky, and sustainable. They're also hypoallergenic, moisture-wicking, and temperature-regulating, making them a great choice for people with allergies or sensitive skin. I’ve heard some amazing things about bamboo sheets, but I haven’t personally tried them yet. They’re definitely on my list!
bamboo sheets on a bed | Image: Supplied
- Silk: The ultimate in luxury! Silk sheets are incredibly soft, smooth, and gentle on the skin. They're also naturally hypoallergenic and temperature-regulating. However, they can be expensive and require special care. Remember my silk sheet duvet-sliding incident? Yeah, they’re not always the most practical.
elegant silk bedding | Image: Supplied
Beyond Texture: Other Factors to Consider
woman happily making her bed | Image: Supplied
So, you’ve thought about softness vs. texture and picked your material. But there are a few other things to keep in mind before you hit that 'add to cart' button:
- Weave: As we mentioned earlier, the weave of the fabric affects its feel and durability. Percale is a plain weave that feels crisp and cool, while sateen is a satin weave that feels silky and smooth.
close up of percale weave fabric | Image: Supplied
- Pocket Depth: Make sure the fitted sheet has a deep enough pocket to accommodate your mattress. There’s nothing worse than a fitted sheet that keeps popping off in the middle of the night!
measuring mattress depth | Image: Supplied
- Care Instructions: Consider how much effort you’re willing to put into caring for your sheets. Some materials, like silk, require special washing and drying. Other, like cotton, are more forgiving.
laundry symbols on a sheet label | Image: Supplied
- Budget: Sheet prices can vary widely depending on the material, thread count, and brand. Set a budget before you start shopping to avoid impulse buys (we’ve all been there!).
woman looking at sheet prices in a store | Image: Supplied
Finding Your Perfect Fit
happy couple sleeping in bed | Image: Supplied
Ultimately, the best way to find the perfect sheets is to try them out (if possible). Look for stores that have display beds where you can actually feel the fabric. Read reviews online and see what other people are saying about different brands and materials. And don't be afraid to experiment! Maybe you'll discover that you're a linen lover after all, or maybe you'll stick with your trusty cotton percale. What does this mean for you? It means comfy nights ahead!
And hey, if you end up hating those new sheets? Don't be afraid to return them! Most stores have pretty good return policies, especially for bedding. So go ahead, treat yourself to some new sheets and get ready for a good night’s sleep. You deserve it!
person happily returning unwanted sheets to a store | Image: Supplied
