With this advice in mind, we researched and tested top-rated sheets for every budget and style. Our favorite is Nestwell’s Egyptian Cotton Sateen Sheets, a sumptuously smooth set boasting a 625 thread count. These are the best high-thread-count sheets currently on the market. Right out of the packaging, our tester said the high thread count was apparent. The fabric is thick and sturdy but not so much that it traps air. Made of 100 percent long-staple Egyptian cotton, these sheets are exceptionally strong and long-lasting. Not only that, but the durable material gets softer with every wash. This set is Oeko-Tex certified, too, so you know it’s made without potentially harmful chemicals. Our tester was also a big fan of the innovative fitted sheet. In addition to top/bottom indicators, there’s a thick elastic band around the entire perimeter, so you can bet it’ll stay in place until laundry day. There were a few loose threads after the first wash, but this is mostly due to the intricate stitching on the stretchy band. We wish you could buy each piece individually, as some people don’t sleep with a top sheet, but the price is still very reasonable. Price at time of publish: $100 One thing to note is that since this is a synthetic material, it’s not very breathable. These sheets come in nearly 20 colors ranging from taupe to burgundy to black. The 16-inch-deep fitted sheet has an elastic band around the whole perimeter, ensuring it stays secure until you’re ready to toss it in the wash. Price at time of publish: $28 Woven from 100 percent long-staple cotton, the fabric is buttery-smooth and Oeko-Tex certified to ensure chemical safety. The price is relatively steep, and we wish there were a few more color options. Having said that, the available patterns and hues are sophisticated and endlessly versatile. Price at time of publish: $159 These sheets are loomed from long-staple cotton with a plain square weave, giving them a crisp, cool, high-end feel. But like most 100 percent cotton bed linens, they’re prone to wrinkling. We wish the price was a bit more accessible, and there’s no twin or twin XL size, but other than that, we have no complaints. Price at time of publish: $192 Additionally, our tester appreciated the helpful top/bottom labels on the fitted sheet. These sheets are machine-washable and dryer-friendly, and you can expect them to get softer with every wash. Unfortunately, there are just a few colors to choose from. But if the steep price doesn’t turn you off, you won’t regret investing in this premium set. Price at time of publish: $183 These sheets come in 20 colors ranging from blush to silvery gray to navy. We appreciate that the fitted sheet has elastic all around, ensuring it stays in place. You can’t buy the pillowcases and sheets individually, but the price of a set is very reasonable. Price at time of publish: $98 This sheet set comes in 12 colors, ranging from rich brown to crisp white to elegant ivory. The fitted sheet features an elastic band around the entire perimeter, so you don’t have to worry about it slipping off. Price at time of publish: $90 Embroidered stripes give these sheets a tailored aesthetic reminiscent of a five-star resort. While there are four color options, the only difference is the color of the stripes—otherwise, they’re all white. Beyond that, we just wish they were more affordable. Price at time of publish: $258
What to Look for in High Thread-Count Sheets
Ply
Before deciding which pair of high thread-count sheets to buy, consider the ply of the material. Ply refers to how many yarns are twisted together to make a single thread, and fabrics can be either single or two-ply. A higher ply doesn’t necessarily mean a softer, more luxurious sheet, though—two-ply fabric tends to have a looser, heavier weave and a shorter lifespan. Jacob Andsager, founder of The Modern Dane, explains that single-ply yarn is actually more durable than two-ply, since it’s made from one continuous thread as opposed to spinning thinner threads together. Andsager warns to keep an eye out for manufacturers who are doubling thread counts by using two-ply, which actually lowers the quality.
Weave
High thread-count sheets come in a variety of different weaves, including sateen and percale. A sateen weave has a luxurious and soft-to-the-touch feel, while percale is crisper and especially ideal for people who get hot when they sleep.
Fiber
You can find sheet sets made from various fibers, including cotton, organic cotton, microfiber, bamboo, and more. Specialty cotton—like Pima and Supima—are worthwhile splurges for a high thread-count sheet set. Microfiber is made from brushed polyester fibers and does a great job of imitating cotton’s smooth, soft finish at a more budget-friendly price.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Theresa Holland is a commerce writer, product reviewer, and copy editor specializing in textiles, home decor, and gadgets for optimizing sleep. For this story, she interviewed Jacob Andsager, founder of The Modern Dane, and Decorist designer Katy Byrne, who offered buying tips and insight into the determining factors of sheet quality, including raw fibers, yarn type, weave, and craftsmanship. She then looked at highly rated options that fared well with our home testers and considered dozens of sets from myriad brands. Bamboo-derived viscose, rayon, and lyocell can have high thread counts as well, often above 1,000. Cotton sheets are the most popular choice, though thread counts typically don’t go much higher than 700. Bed linens featuring a sateen or percale weave are also considered high-quality. Beyond that, pay attention to the brand’s manufacturing process, supply chain, and whether the product holds any certifications. A contributor since 2019, Theresa covers bedding and home improvement at The Spruce.
