Introduction

If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is between cotton and microfiber sheets, we’ve got the answer. For those of you who don’t know about cotton or microfiber sheets or where to start when it comes to choosing between them, we put together a quick guide that will hopefully help!

What are Cotton Sheets?

Cotton sheets are made from high-quality cotton fabrics that feel breathable and soft. Cotton fabrics have proven benefits for your skin as they regulate body temperature and absorb moisture easily. They also wick away moisture from your body, which means you'll be sleeping comfortably through the night without feeling too hot or too cold.

The Best Cotton Sheets

The best cotton sheets are 100% cotton. Remember, it’s the quality of fabric that determines its comfort level and durability, not necessarily the thread count. You might notice a high thread count doesn’t equate to better cotton sheets. For example, if you purchase 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets, you probably won’t spot a huge difference between their comfort level and breathability than what you would feel with 100% Egyptian cotton or even 200% Egyptian cotton sheets.

What are Microfiber Sheets?

If you are interested in silky-soft sheets, consider purchasing a microfiber sheet. The thin strands of polyester give them a butter-like feel and are also more durable and affordable than cotton. Although these sheets may not be the cheapest option, you can find them for a fraction of the cost. 

The main advantage of microfiber sheets is their low maintenance. They can withstand high temperatures, and they don't wrinkle like cotton. You'll be able to find a wide selection of these sheets online, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Unlike cotton, microfiber is made in a laboratory and does not have thread counts. However, a high quality microfiber sheet will be more expensive than its cheap counterpart.

Cotton Sheets vs. Microfiber Sheets

Cotton sheets have been around for nearly 500 years, but microfiber sheets, which are popular nowadays, only recently came out. They’re usually made from polyester or polypropylene and are capable of absorbing moisture much faster than cotton fabrics.

As a result, they are often priced higher than cotton sheets. Still, they aren’t the best option if you want to sleep on a comfortable and soft surface. Studies have shown that cotton fibers' ability to absorb moisture beyond what microfibers can achieve wears off with time, while the natural oils in your skin will also attract dirt easily.

How to Choose Between Microfiber and Cotton Sheets

If you have sensitive skin and enjoy a soft fabric against your body, then cotton is the way to go for high-quality sleep. If you want to sleep on a luxurious surface and don’t mind spending a little more for your sheets, then microfiber is definitely the way to go.If you have sensitive skin and enjoy a soft fabric against your body, then cotton is the way to go for high-quality sleep!

In addition to the above, you need to make sure that your sheets are 100% pure cotton. If they aren’t, they will feel rough against your skin unlike Egyptian cotton sheets, which are known as one of the softest types of cotton fabrics. Look at the microfiber vs. cotton sheets comparison chart.

Feel and Comfort

Cotton is well-known for its fresh, soft, and crisp texture, especially when you sleep on a brand-new sheet set. Every time you wash it the cotton becomes just slightly softer and more comfortable. By comparing the number of threads in linen sheets of cotton, they either feel rougher or softer. The higher thread count usually feels less rough, while those with lower counts have a rougher feel.

Microfiber is smooth and slippery texture, comparable to satin or silk. This is why microfiber is able to hold more heat than cotton. Its ability to retain heat is beneficial if you reside in a warmer climate or in winter. In other circumstances, it could be uncomfortable.

Durability

Sheets of cotton with high thread counts typically last longer than sheets of cotton with lesser thread counts. Thread counts with lower thread counts tend to shrink more which makes them less comfortable and you'll have to replace them more frequently. However high-end cotton becomes softer with each wash without making the cotton wear down.

Microfiber sheets that have flat weaves perform better over the long term than microfiber sheets that have waffle weave. They can endure frequent washes and not pill or deteriorate. Also, flat weaves tend not to shrink or wrinkle after being dried and washed.

Maintenance

The process of washing the sheets is pretty easy. In the majority of cases, both sheets are safe to throw into the washer and dryer with a warmer setting. If the sheets don't clearly indicate needing other attention then it's safe to say you can wash them in the washing machine.

This is why microfiber is more likely to appear staticky following washing and drying. Microfiber that has a waffle weave can also soak up moisture and can be difficult to clean up staining. Certain types of microfiber might require washing with a low-temperature setting.

Conclusion

You may be wondering if cotton or microfiber sheets are better. The answer depends on your preferences, the quality of fabric you prefer and what you're looking for in a sheet set. Cotton is more breathable than polyester but it also wrinkles easier. Microfibers will protect against allergens like dust mites but can trap body heat which might make them feel hotter to sleep under during warmer months.