The Best Cotton Sheets of 2025
These are the softest, most comfortable sheet sets made of 100% cotton.

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Cotton is by far the most popular bed sheet material because it offers the whole package: natural, breathable, and soft to the touch but also durable. While microfiber sheets and other fabrics like linen and silk are becoming popular, they're not as universal or well-loved as cotton sheets. Plus, there's a cotton sheet set out there for nearly every sleeper, regardless of preference or budget.
In recent years, the experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab have tested more than 300 sheet sets of all thread counts, fabrications, and styles. We perform hands-on testing in our Lab using specialized equipment and following technical industry standards to evaluate aspects like fabric strength, pilling resistance, wrinkle resistance, and shrinkage from laundering. We also have consumer testers feel the sheets in a blind comparison test and send sets home for sleep testers to try out on their own beds. The following cotton sheets combine sets that stood out in the Textiles Lab, performed well with consumer testers, and are favorites of GH analysts and editors.
The Company Store Legends Hotel Supima Cotton Wrinkle-Free Sheet Set

Pros
High softness ratings from testers
Thick and substantial material
Many color and size options
Cons
Some pilling in Lab tests
These sheets from The Company Store take our top spot, thanks to their substantial thickness, incredible softness, and impressive durability. The smooth sateen sheets are made with Supima cotton, a long-staple cotton grown in the U.S. that is higher quality, softer, and stronger than some other cotton fibers.
The sheets come in many colors with the option to mix and match your set for a customized look. If you have a tall mattress or use a mattress topper and need deep-pocket sheets, this set is offered in both a standard 14-inch depth and 18-inch deep pocket for Queen, King and California King sizes.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: Not only did the sheets perform well in the Textiles Lab, they also stood out for earning among the highest softness ratings in a blind comparison test. Our at-home sleep testers told us they would purchase the sheets for themselves because they loved the feel. A tester shared, "They were a good balance of soft and crisp," and another commented, "They are soft, feel luxurious, and look amazing."
The fabric was strong and shrink-resistant in our Lab tests, though there were some more noticeable pills and wrinkles compared to other sets we evaluated, despite the brand's "wrinkle-free" claims.
RELATED: The Softest Sheets
Material | Cotton sateen |
Colors | 15 options |
Sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, Deep Pocket Queen, King, Deep Pocket King, California King, Deep Pocket California King |
Pros
Pill-resistant in Lab tests
Earned high softness and comfort ratings from most sleep testers
Low cost for 100% cotton
Cons
May not feel quite as luxurious as pricier cotton sheets
It's hard to find any cotton sheets under $100, let alone good-quality ones. We were amazed when this under-$50 set outperformed even pricier cotton sheets, earning good scores from both Textiles Lab and consumer tests. Even more, the sheets are available on Amazon with fast Prime shipping, so you can upgrade your bed right away.
California Design Den offers a wide range of colors, patterns, and sizes, and there's the option to buy pillowcases separately if you need extras. The brand says the sheets are made for mattresses ranging from 8- to 16-inches tall, and our testers found the fitted sheet fit well on their beds.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: Though some of our reviewers said the material wasn't quite as soft or luxurious as other sheets they've slept on, most gave it high praise for its substantial weight and smooth feel. When describing the fabric, one tester shared, "The sheets are very comfortable and crisp, without being overly crisp to the point of being stiff." Another tester added, "They felt clean and fresh."
The sheets also proved to be pill-resistant in our durability tests and received average scores for fabric strength. When we washed them repeatedly according to their care label, the sheets held up well and resisted shrinkage, but they did show some signs of wrinkling after being dried.
RELATED: Best Sheets on Amazon
Material | Cotton sateen |
Colors | 40 options |
Sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King |
Pros
Pill-resistant material
Convenient bed-making labels
One-year, any-reason return policy
Cons
Not as deep for taller mattresses
GH analysts, editors, and testers alike love these smooth sateen sheets from popular brand Brooklinen, with many users telling us the sheets are softer than others they've slept on. With a 15-inch depth, the sheets aren't quite as tall as others we've assessed and, as a result, may not fit well on extra-tall mattresses or beds with an added mattress topper. One of our favorite aspects of the sheets, though, are the convenient labels marked "long side" and "short side," so making the bed is a breeze.
Brooklinen carries the sheets in over a dozen essential colors, including neutral hues and graphic prints, and regularly offers seasonal styles as well. We and online reviewers say the sheets are worth the splurge, but if you aren't fully convinced, the brand offers an any-reason return policy for a year after purchase, so you can receive a full refund (minus a $9.95 return fee).
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: One tester shared, "I really liked the material they were made of. It was a much softer material without being a silk sheet," and added, "They are nice on my skin." Thousands of online reviewers gave the sheets a five-star rating, with many highlighting the comfortable and cozy feel.
Along with receiving top marks for comfort, the sheets performed well in our Textiles Lab evaluations. The sateen material proved pill-resistant, and it held up well to repeated laundering without major changes in appearance or notable wrinkles.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Brooklinen Sheets
Material | Cotton sateen |
Colors | 26 options |
Sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
Pros
Cool and crisp feel
Barely wrinkled in our evaluations
Fabric proved durable in tests
Cons
Not as smooth as sateen
Percale weaves are ideal for those who prefer a classic, cool, and crisp cotton sheet set over one that feels silky smooth. They're also popular for hot sleepers who like cotton sheets because percale weaves are typically airy and more breathable than other fabrications like sateen or microfiber.
Though percale sheets can sometimes feel rough compared with sateen, this L.L.Bean set is made of Pima cotton, a premium variety that is known for its softer feel.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: These sheets were rated soft by our testers, including one who described the material as feeling like "quality hotel sheets." The tester further shared, "It also feels a bit cool to the touch, which I like. I would love these sheets in my home."
The sheets outperformed all other percale sheets during our extensive evaluation process, earning high scores across categories. The fabric proved strong and durable in our tests with hardly any pilling. And the sheets looked great after being washed repeatedly, withstanding major shrinkage. While percale often has a wrinkled look, this one had a smoother, more polished appearance compared to others.
RELATED: Best Percale Sheets
Material | Cotton percale |
Colors | 9 options |
Sizes | Twin, Full, Queen, King, California King |
Pros
GOTS-certified organic
Testers said they felt breathable
Proved durable in our tests
Cons
Some shrinkage and wrinkles from laundering
True organic sateen sheets can cost hundreds of dollars, but this set is GOTS-certified and still just $220 for a Queen set. The certification is especially important because it shows the entire manufacturing process—not just the growing of the cotton—follows strict standards.
The smooth sateen sheets can fit mattresses up to 17 inches deep, and they're available in a few neutral colors (white, grey, and beige) to coordinate with most bedrooms. Along with sheet sets, the brand carries add-ons like extra pillowcases and matching duvet covers.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: Though it showed some shrinkage and more prominent wrinkles after we washed it, the sateen fabric outperformed other organic sheets and proved to be both soft and strong in our evaluations. We noted minimal pilling as well.
Our testers were highly impressed by the breathability of the sheets. All of our testers found them to feel cooling when they laid in bed, including one who shared, "These sheets are the best sheets I have ever owned. They regulated my body temperature better than very expensive sheets that I own."
Another tester said of getting into bed with the sheets, "Of course the first thing you notice is the softness of the material and [how] comfy they are. Not only are they comfier than my previous sheets, but certainly the comfiest sheets I have ever slept on."
RELATED: Best Sateen Sheets
Material | Organic cotton sateen |
Colors | White, beige, grey |
Sizes | Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
Coyuchi Organic Crinkled Percale Sheet Set

Pros
Relaxed look and feel
GOTS-certified organic and Fair Trade Certified
Lightweight and breathable material ideal for hot sleepers
Cons
Wrinkles easily after laundering
Some pilling in Lab tests
Made with GOTS-certified cotton for those who prefer organic, lightweight and airy for those who like something breathable and cool, and slightly crinkled for those who love a natural and lived-in look and feel, these sheets from Coyuchi check all the bedding boxes. In fact, the brand uses a special softening process to achieve its unique finish.
Besides its organic certification, the sheet set is also Fair Trade Certified, which means the sourcing and manufacturing processes meet standards for ethical issues like wages and working conditions. One important note: These sheets are more limited in stock than others we recommend, so if you find the perfect color and size, it's better to buy sooner rather than later.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: The fabric performed well in our Textiles Lab evaluations, though it did experience some wrinkling after laundering (which is expected for a crinkled fabric such as this). We also noted some pilling after the material was rubbed repeatedly by our abrasion machine. The fabric did prove durable in our Instron strength tests, though.
At-home testers told us they loved how the sheets felt soft yet crisp at the same time, and they appreciated the breathability of the material. One tester said, "I really like how cool they keep me. I never felt overheated, even when I was dressed more warmly overall like in flannel pajamas." Another shared, "The sheets were soft and comfortable and weren't too hot."
RELATED: Best Organic Sheets
Material | Organic cotton percale |
Colors | 15 options |
Sizes | Twin, Full, Queen, King, California King |
Pros
Clean, polished look
Washes well with minimal shrinkage
Smooth sateen feel
Cons
Lower scores for fabric strength in Lab tests
Cotton sheets can look crumpled and messy at times—even when you take them out of the dryer right away—but this set has a wrinkle-resistant finish and looked the smoothest in our evaluations after we washed it. Adding to the luxury, the cotton is combed to remove shorter fibers, which makes for a softer, smoother material. And because it’s certified by OEKO-TEX, you don’t need to worry about unsafe chemical levels from the finish.
Cuddledown claims that their hotel sheets are used in hundreds of luxury accommodations across the country, and just like at a high-end hotel, the sheets look polished on the bed. They're only available in white but feature chic colored stitching for a decorative accent.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: Testers agreed the fabric felt soft and smooth and gave it high softness ratings in our blind comparison test. Although the fabric didn't perform as well as other cotton sheets in our strength test, it proved durable overall in our washability tests with minimal shrinkage. The sheet set is also generously sized with a 16-inch deep fitted sheet, and it fit nicely over a standard Queen mattress during our evaluations.
RELATED: The Best Hotel Sheets
Material | Cotton sateen |
Colors | White with 10 embroidery color options |
Sizes | Twin, Full, Queen, King |
Pros
Smooth, high-quality construction
Lightweight feel
Proved durable in Lab tests
Cons
We couldn't validate its organic claims
Limited inventory
Not only is this set smooth, but it's also lightweight and incredibly airy compared to other cotton sheets we've evaluated, making it ideal for hot sleepers. The sheets get their smoothness from the silky weave, long-staple cotton fibers and combing process, which removes any short cotton fibers that could stick out and cause discomfort. With convenient labels marking the top and bottom, the sheets allow for easy bed-making, according to our testers.
Just note that although the brand designates this an organic cotton set, we couldn't confirm whether the entire manufacturing process is organic because it lacks relevant certifications. The sheets also have limited stock, especially during holidays and sales, so it may take some time to secure your perfect set.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: This set impressed us in our Lab tests, exhibiting excellent pilling resistance and minimal shrinkage. As a bonus, while most cotton sheets wrinkle easily, this one outperformed other sateen sets we tested with fewer creases and deep-set wrinkles. Testers also liked that the sheets felt even softer after being laundered compared to right out of the package.
Our testers even highlighted that the set felt more breathable than the typical sateen sheets they've slept on. A tester described the sheets as "lighter weight" and "perfect for the summer."
Material | Cotton sateen |
Colors | 5 options |
Sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, King, California King |
Hotel Collection 680 Thread Count 100% Supima Cotton Sheet Set

Pros
High scores for softness
Aced our pill-resistance tests
Chic hemstitch design
Cons
Just average fabric strength scores
If you sleep with a mattress topper or own a loftier mattress, you're likely familiar with the song and dance of putting on your sheets, your sheets popping off the corner, and then struggling to pull them back down. These deep-pocket sheets from Macy's Hotel Collection can help solve your woes.
Designed to fit mattresses 16 inches tall, the sheets are deeper than most sets we've tested, so they can easily stretch over your bed and stay in place. They're made of Supima cotton, which are long-staple cotton fibers that have a smoother feel, and they feature a chic hemstitch detail, just like the sheets at your favorite upscale hotel. And if you prefer to sleep without a top sheet, the brand sells each piece individually, so you can opt for just the fitted design.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: We were very impressed with the quality of this set. While they earned only average tear strength scores, they still outperformed other similar sets. The sheets also proved highly durable in our pill-resistance tests, with no signs of pills or wear after being rubbed repeatedly. Plus, the sheets did well in our washability assessments with minimal shrinkage.
A tester favorite, these sheets earned top marks from our at-home users who gave them some of the highest ratings for softness and comfort. One tester described sleeping in these sheets as a "decadent experience."
Material | Cotton sateen |
Colors | 9 options |
Sizes | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King |
Other cotton sheets we tested

We've tested hundreds of sheets in recent years. Here are a few more options we've tested but didn't feature:
- Garnet Hill Hemstitched Supima Flannel Sheet: This cotton sheet set outperformed other flannel styles in our tests. The sheets are brushed on both sides, which helps trap warmth and creates a super soft and cozy feel. However, the sheets pilled more than others in our evaluations but performed well for strength overall.
- Silk & Snow Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set: These sheets are verified by the Cotton Egypt Association, so they're more reliable than other Egyptian cotton sets we've tested. They performed well for pilling and strength, but we noted considerable shrinkage in our washability tests.
- Parachute Home Brushed Cotton Sheet Set: The sheets have a soft feel similar to flannel but aren't as warm. The brand describes the sheets as similar to "your favorite lived-in T-shirt." In our evaluations, the sheets were more durable than flannel, but they wrinkled more than others during washability tests.
- Pact Organic Favorite Tee Jersey Sheet Set: While most cotton sheets are woven, these sheets are knit, so they feel comparable to a T-shirt or a cozy pair of pajamas. They performed well in our recent evaluations of jersey sheets, receiving high scores for softness and resisting shrinkage.
How we test sheets

Aside from validating that the sheets are 100% cotton (as opposed to a blend with synthetic fibers), we rigorously test the sheets in our Textiles Lab and share them with real consumer testers. Here's how we evaluate sheet sets:
- Fabric strength: Our specialized Instron machine measures tensile strength. It pulls swatches of fabric until they break, letting us know how strong each material is (pictured here).

- Washability: We repeatedly wash each sheet and measure them for shrinkage or stretching and appearance after laundering to determine how well they keep their shape in the wash.
- Wrinkle resistance: After washing, we take each sheet out of the dryer and bring them to our specialized lighting room where we visually assess the sheets for creases based on visual industry standards (pictured here).

- Pilling resistance: To mimic tossing, turning, wear and tear, we use our Martindale abrasion machine (pictured here) to rub swatches together and then visibly score signs of pilling according to textile industry standards.
- Other technical factors: We also check how well the sheets fit onto a sample mattress and consider any claims—from cooling features to organic labeling.

- Consumer testing: Our panel of testers rate each fabric in a blind comparison. Testing occurs after we wash the sheets to remove any leftover finishes from production. Along with having testers rate softness in the Lab, we share samples with consumer testers who are able to use the sheets on their own beds to provide us with real-life feedback on performance aspects like comfort, temperature regulation, fit, and ease of use.
How to shop for cotton sheets

It may surprise you just how many types of cotton sheets there are to choose from. Here's what to keep in mind as you shop:
✔️ First, consider the cotton fibers:
- Long-staple cotton is considered a premium fiber because its longer strands mean there are no short fibers to stick out or break off, making the fabric smoother and more durable. Egyptian and Pima cotton are both types of extra-long-staple (ELS) cotton, and Supima cotton is a brand name of Pima cotton grown in the U.S. Just keep in mind: Egyptian cotton claims are hard to prove, and there have been instances of brands mislabeling their sheets when they don't actually contain this luxury fiber.
- Organic cotton is grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. But don't confuse organic cotton fibers with organic cotton sheets. A fully organic product will follow strict standards throughout the supply chain, not just the growing of the cotton. Check to make sure it's certified by a trusted source, such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
✔️ Next, consider cotton sheet fabrics:
- Percale is a basic weave that feels light and breathable. It's ideal for hot sleepers or those who prefer a crisp feel.
- Sateen is a satin-like weave that feels silky smooth. Our testers tend to prefer this over other sheet types because sateen sheets are softer than percale sheets, but they aren't quite as breathable.
- Flannel is a thick, brushed fabric that feels warm and cozy.
- Jersey is a knit fabric that feels like a T-shirt. It's stretchier and often very soft, but it's not as durable and pills more easily.
✔️ Also look into cotton manufacturing techniques:
- Combed cotton undergoes a process that removes shorter cotton fibers, leaving behind the longer ones that feel smoother and are less likely to break.
- Brushed cotton has a surface that's brushed to give it a fuzzy finish similar to flannel. This feels softer and helps trap air inside to make it cozier.
- Wrinkle-resistant cotton has added finishes to make wrinkle-prone cotton look smoother. Although this process often uses chemicals, you can check for an OEKO-TEX certification on the brand's website or the sheet set's physical packaging to make sure there are no unsafe levels of known harmful chemicals in the finished fabric.
More cotton sheets shopping tips

In addition to the type of cotton and its fabric construction, there are other characteristics to consider as you pick out your sheet set:
✔️ Thread count: This tells you the number of threads per square inch of fabric, and it matters only when the sheets are 100% cotton. Top performers in our tests are typically in the 300-to-500 range, but thread count isn't super important, and it's better to focus on the fabric specifications listed above.
✔️ Price: Cotton sheets are more expensive than ones that use synthetics, like polyester and cotton-poly blends, but you don't need to spend a fortune. Most of our top-performing cotton sheets are in the $100-to-$200 range for a Queen-size sheet set.
✔️ Care instructions: There's usually no special care required because cotton is machine washable, but some sets call for gentle cycles or cold-water washing. Warm water is best for cleaning cotton sheets, especially if you're a hot sleeper or don't wash your sheets on a regular basis.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Grace Wu is a Good Housekeeping Institute textiles analyst with a degree in fiber science and has tested more than 50 sheet sets during her time at GH using specialized laboratory equipment. She has also reviewed feedback from hundreds of consumer testers. Wu regularly writes articles about the best sheets for every material preference.
Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home & apparel reviews analyst. She has tested and evaluated bedding of all kinds, including silk sheets, affordable mattresses, duvets and comforters. Constantine has also conducted sheets testing for Good Housekeeping's Bedding Awards programs, and for this article, she reviewed sheet data for relevant information to make updates based on her team's testing.
Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.
Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.
