Synthetic sheets for all seasons
Some synthetic sheets are ideal for cold weather, and others are best used in the summer. Choosing a synthetic sheet that is suitable to your needs can mean the difference between a comfortable night's sleep and a torturous one. Here at Overstock, we carry an incredible selection of different grades and styles of sheets, so you can find exactly what you need to keep you at your desired comfort level.
This post will include:
- A summary of all types of synthetic materials used for bed sheets
- Details about each type's pros
- Demographics on which type is regularly purchased by consumers
- And more...
Synthetic sheets tend to be hypoallergenic, soft, and smooth. Unfortunately, when they get wet they retain heat and cause a person to sweat. This can lead to sleeping in too hot of a condition or worse pressure sores. Another issue with synthetic materials can be the shrunken feeling that occurs when it becomes wet and subsequently drys out. When a person moves around during sleep the sheets will not stay in place like cotton sheets can since synthetic fibers are not used for their weight or substance making them more likely to be misaligned than cotton sheets.
Some types of synthetics have problems with shedding as well as their fibers breaking down over time (see below). While there are synthetic sheets on the market that don't have these issues, they are kept to a minimum in order to make sure consumers are able to find what they need.
Although, there are a few types of synthetics that can be used outside; some of the common materials used for bedding include: Sateen, Merino Wool, Nylon (polyester), Front Closure, and Microfiber.
Sateen is a type of very fine weave polyester with a smooth and silky feel. It is commonly found in luxury fabrics like silk and cashmere but because it has such little stretch it does not usually occur in regular bedding items. Sateen is not available in queen-size sheets because it is not considered to be very durable and tear-resistant. Sateen is easily the most expensive type of synthetic sheet on the market.
Merino wool is a type of fiber that comes from the fleece of sheep and provides a very soft and cozy feel. Merino wool chambers are typically harvested from flocks that have been pastured in full sunlight rather than exposed to heat or cold so as to keep their wool fibers alive longer. This makes merino wool sheets very light, soft, and breathable while maintaining their durability for long periods of time. Merino wool sheets are softer than cashmere but slightly less durable than Sateen. Merino wool is also known as Merino, which is the type of sheep used to make this type of fiber.
Nylon (polyester) is a synthetic material that comes from petroleum and can have a synthetic or an original form. Polyester fibers are typically woven into sheets that are slightly more coarse than cotton sheets. Polyester is at its best in bedding because it's resistant to pilling, holds heat well, and can come in a variety of colors and patterns. Unlike Merino wool it does not have enough stretch to keep sheets in place very well.
Front Closure sheets are a good choice for those who have allergies to synthetic materials or prefer the feel of cotton. It is also a good option for those who have sensitive skin or are more prone to breakouts. These sheets are usually made from microfiber, which is made up of very tiny fibers and allows for better air circulation between the layers. Front Closure sheets come in regular and extra-large sizes, so you can find one that will fit you well.
Microfiber is the latest in synthetic bedding technology and provides the softest feeling compared to other fabrics on the market. This type of sheet is very similar to silk sheets but is also very quick-drying, does not pill, does not fade, and has a smooth and surprisingly warm feel. It is also known as "UltraSilk", "Waterfall", and "Microx".
Cotton is the most commonly used material in bedding with a wide range of different types used in regular bedding items. Cotton fibers are strong enough to keep these sheets from shifting or bunching up while they lay on the person's body. Even though cotton does not have a tight weave it allows for great airflow and breathability. All cotton types are usually woven together in several layers to create a soft comfortable feeling for the human body.
The 100% cotton sheets are the best option for consumers with allergies or sensitive skin and have a longer lifeline than other types of cotton. The percale bedding category is usually woven with a tighter weave that makes it smooth and velvety while keeping it breathable. The sateen sheets tend to be made from finer fibers which keep it soft but not as durable as the other types of cotton sheeting.
Pima is a type of cotton that comes from the same plant as regular cotton but has a tighter weave, less lint, and can be more absorbent than regular cotton. Pima is also naturally softer and smoother than regular cotton sheets.
Satin sheets are a type of cotton that comes from the same plant as regular cotton but has a tighter weave, less lint, and can be more absorbent than regular cotton. Satin sheets are also naturally softer and smoother than regular cotton sheets.
Linen is another popular material used in making bedding items. The soft fibers of linen come from the same plant as flax and have been woven into cloth since early times. This type of fiber is strong, breathable, and resistant to pilling as well as being very durable. The coolness of linen sheets makes them a good choice for summer bedding.
The problem with linen sheets is that they tend to wrinkle quickly. This can be prevented by using mattress covers or pillowcases in addition to the sheets. Linen is also known as Flax and comes from a plant that has the same name.
Although, not all bedding items are created equal. Bedding is something that people spend many hours a day in, so it should be made with comfort in mind. The bedding material should also be strong enough to last for long periods of time and can typically be mixed with cotton and artificial materials as long as it creates a product that is both durable and comfortable.
The consumer has many different choices available when shopping for their new linens, so do your research and find the best sheets that will fit your preferences. Some people like soft sheets while others prefer a different type of feel which makes for some great bedding options.
Conclusion
The best bedding materials are made from natural materials that have been woven into a bedding item. These types of materials are not only comfortable, they also contain a nice feel and improve the well-being of the human body when used as a sleeping surface. Bedding is meant to be a place where one can relax, so choosing quality bedding items can help turn your bedroom into something extraordinary.
Bedding items can be made with fabric or even without any material at all, so consumers have many different options to choose from to create an item that is both comfortable and durable. Bedding has become an integral part of modern-day society while also bringing people closer together at night when they sleep.