Fitted sheet materials compared: jersey, percale, satin and more
- , through Inge | Bath&Living
- 6 min read
Did you know that you fitted sheet has a major effect on the quality of your night's rest? When a fitted sheet does not fit comfortably around your mattress or topper, you will sleep more restlessly. For example, when the fitted sheet pulls at the corners of your mattress or when wrinkles and bunching occur because the sheet is too large. That is why finding the right size fitted sheet a must.
In addition, the material of your fitted sheet is very important because your body makes direct contact with it. You might be wondering: are there really so many different fitted sheet materials? The answer to that is: yes and no. No, because fitted sheets are generally all made of cotton. And yes, because different types of cotton, as well as various weaves and finishes, can be used. Despite the fact that they are all cotton, there is indeed a difference in comfort between the various types of cotton fitted sheets.
Various types of cotton fitted sheets
Cotton is a natural material. In addition to feeling soft, cotton is a breathable material that absorbs moisture well. This makes it ideal for making fitted sheets and other bedding. After all, you may perspire while you sleep, creating a need for ventilating and absorbent material to prevent it from feeling clammy and stuffy. Cotton is perfectly suited for this.
For example, you can choose a terry cloth fitted sheet, which is extra absorbent and pleasantly warm thanks to the weave with small loops. Another warm and cozy option is a flannel fitted sheet; this has a fuller feel due to the brushed cotton. For cooler comfort, choose a percale or satin cotton fitted sheet. Or go for the best stretch with a lovely jersey fitted sheet.
In addition to cotton, there are other natural materials used for fitted sheets, such as bamboo or Tencel (made from the eucalyptus tree). And even synthetic fabrics like polyester microfiber are found in fitted sheets. At Bath&In Living, we are fans of cotton fitted sheets, so that is where the focus lies. Also in our top 3 best fitted sheets.
Percale cotton fitted sheet
Percale is a more luxurious variant of cotton due to the fine cotton yarn, high thread count, and specific weaving technique that creates a smooth and matte surface. Thanks to this special technique, a percale fitted sheet feels crisp and fresh, like the “crackling” bedding in luxury hotels. A percale cotton fitted sheet is easy to maintain dbecause not much can go wrong with washing and ironing (always follow the washing instructions, though). At Bath&The Living percale cotton fitted sheet is available in about 10 colors.
Satin fitted sheets
With a cotton satin fitted sheet, you choose the even smoother look created by the special satin weave. Unlike matte percale, cotton satin has a slight sheen. This gives a luxurious appearance and also enhances the color.
Speaking of color: at Bath you can&Living: choose from satin fitted sheets in about 20 different shades. The colors are divided across the two fitted sheet series. Satin Soft and Satin Supreme. The difference between the two is that the Satin Supreme fitted sheets are made with a more luxurious type of cotton, namely Egyptian cotton. Egyptian cotton plants produce longer cotton fibers, allowing for the production of finer yarns. This results not only in a softer and more luxurious fabric but also in a sturdier fitted sheet that you can enjoy for longer.
What is a jersey fitted sheet?
Also made of cotton, but with a completely different feel and comfort, is the jersey fitted sheet. A jersey fitted sheet is not woven, but knitted with fine threads. This results in a very stretchy fabric that is ideal for fitted sheets because it stretches so nicely around your mattress. A jersey fitted sheet is wrinkle-free, feels very soft and supple, and offers cozy comfort.
Jersey Soft vs. Jersey Supreme
On the Bath&In the Living webshop you will find both the Jersey Soft if the Jersey Supreme Fitted sheets from Vandyck. Both types of jersey fitted sheets are made with 95% cotton, 5% Lycra, and an Aloe Vera finish. The Lycra (a type of elastane) ensures even better stretch because this material can stretch extremely and always springs back completely. The Aloe Vera finish gives the fitted sheets an irresistibly soft quality.
The difference between the Jersey Soft and the Jersey Supreme lies in the thickness and warmth. This is because the Jersey Soft has a weight of 175 grams/m², while the Jersey Supreme has a weight of 235 grams/m². This provides a noticeably more luxurious feel and makes this jersey fitted sheet extremely suitable for those who easily get cold or during the colder months.
Which fitted sheet material suits which use?
In principle, any of the mentioned fitted sheets can be used all year round, as they are made of high-quality cotton. However, are you somewhat sensitive to temperature changes? Then we recommend opting for a percale or satin cotton fitted sheet during the warm months and a jersey fitted sheet during the cold months. Are you really sensitive to the cold? Then choose the extra thick and cozy quality of the Jersey Supreme fitted sheets.
Are there also synthetic fitted sheets?
You can find synthetic fitted sheets at Bath&Not living. But a mattress protector or flannel, which is also a type of fitted sheet to provide extra protection for your mattress. You place this under your cotton fitted sheet on your mattress. Both the Molton Stretch and the Ventilation Stretch fitted sheets contain polyester to limit moisture penetration as much as possible. However, the Molton Stretch consists primarily of cotton (the top side even 100%) to keep your bedding breathable. The Ventilation Stretch is made with 80% Tencel. This is a natural material made from the eucalyptus tree with a cooling effect.