Cotton Vs. Microfiber Sheets: Which Are Better?

Getting a good night’s sleep depends on numerous factors; the quality of the mattress, the pillows, the darkness, and the temperature of the room, etc. However, many seem to forget one essential factor; the sheets.

What you put on your bed get significantly improves or alters your sleep, depending on the quality of the sheets. One needs to pay attention to the material of the sheets, the texture, how they feel, and of course, whether they do their job of picking up and preventing moisture buildup.

So, if you’re looking to improve your bedding, chances are you’ve come down to two possible choices between cotton and microfiber sheets. And, if you’re stuck and don’t know which sheets to choose, you’re at the right place.

In the following paragraphs, we’ll do a little comparison of the sheet types and see which type is the true bedding winner. So, let’s get started!

Cotton And Microfiber Sheets – Overview

Cotton Sheets

Cotton sheets are, self-explanatorily, made from cotton. Now, cotton is a famous fabric known for its numerous benefits. It is breathable hypoallergenic and made from natural, organic sources. Cotton is also one of the most versatile materials, which is often high in quality.

However, there are of course numerous types of cotton which range in quality, so when choosing cotton sheets, you’ll come across more choices between different cotton type sheets. However, here’s a short overview of all the info that is important to know if you’re about to buy some cotton sheets;

More to know: Percale vs Cotton: The Secret Of a Good Night’s Sleep

Microfiber Sheets

Microfiber sheets, unlike the cotton ones, are made from incredibly thin fibers. The fibers are woven together to create super lightweight, thin, soft, and comfortable sheets.

However, these sheets are not made from natural and organic materials. They are often put together using synthetic materials, and this has its pros and cons, of course. Though they may not be as hypoallergenic as the cotton sheets, microfiber bedding is often less prone to wrinkling and shrinkage, and they can also capture more moisture and prevent moisture build-up as you sleep. Here’s some other info you may find useful before buying microfiber sheets;

Cotton And Microfiber Sheets – Comparison

Cotton and microfiber sheets are both comfortable, lightweight, and very soft to sleep on. However, the differences between these two types of sheets don’t just lie in the material. That is why we’ve decided to make a side-by-side comparison of the differences between the cotton and microfiber sheets, so you can have a clear insight into which sheets are better for you;

Comfort And Feel

• Cotton sheets – these sheets are comfortable, breathable, and hypoallergenic. They feel very natural to the touch, and stay put when placed on the bed. They’re ideal for people with sensitive skin or people who experience frequent and excessive sweating while they sleep. Cotton sheets will make you feel warm when it’s cold and cool and it’s warm.
• Microfiber sheets – these sheets are really comfortable, lightweight, and smooth. Some would even describe them as having a slippery feel, almost as if they’re not there. So, even though this would be a clear advantage for the microfiber sheets, they may slip off the bed under a restless sleeper, unless they’re tucked around the mattress

Durability

• Cotton sheets – right away, we have to say that cotton sheets will last you even three times longer than the microfiber ones. The reason for this lies in the weave style (interwoven and spun threads), which makes the sheets resistant to frequent washing. Even with time, cotton sheets don’t lose their durability, and they even become softer and more comfortable with each wash. Once the cotton sheets start nearing the end, they will become thinner and start tearing and ripping. This is when you’ll know you need to buy some new ones.
• Microfiber sheets – even though they’re not as durable as cotton sheets, the microfiber sheets can also withstand frequent washing and use. However they might thin out much quicker than the cotton sheets, so they can start ripping and tearing more frequently. However, high-end microfiber sheets have a tighter weave, so they’re less likely to deteriorate faster, and can withstand frequent washing.

Maintenance

• Cotton sheets – these sheets may require frequent washing because they’re better at trapping moisture and even dust. So, to maintain the hypoallergenic properties, it is essential to wash your cotton sheets frequently. Some cotton sheets can be washed on a normal cycle, while the really dirty ones may require high-cycle washing. Luckily, the sheets are durable so the high maintenance won’t affect their quality and durability.
• Microfiber sheets – if you’re looking for low-maintenance sheets, then the microfiber ones are for you. These sheets can be washed and dried on a normal cycle, and they don’t require frequent washing. They tend to maintain the cleanliness, shape, and size for a long time, between washes. They also do not wrinkle easily, even after a cycle in a dryer.

Temperature And Heat Trapping

• Cotton sheets – these sheets are naturally breathable and cotton itself is known to have temperature regulating properties. That is why cotton sheets are ideal for hot sleepers or people who generally sweat excessively during sleep. Cotton sheets are also recommended for menopausal women who experience frequent heatwaves and sweating issues.
• Microfiber sheets – because they’re made from synthetic materials, microfiber sheets trap more heat and have a hard time regulating temperature. That is why they’re recommended for use during the colder months, or in cold climates where heat-trapping is more needed. Microfiber sheets, therefore, are not recommended for hot sleepers and people with an excessive sweating issue.

Pricing

• Cotton sheets – cotton sheets tend to be more expensive, mostly because they’re made from a natural, hypoallergenic material. They are also overall more durable and more breathable, which makes them suitable for both adults and children. The average price of cotton sheets starts at $50.
• Microfiber sheets – these sheets, overall, are very affordable. However, the high-end microfiber sheets can be on the pricier side. Even then, they can still be cheaper than high-end cotton sheets. So, if you’re looking to save a few bucks, we recommend you go with the microfiber sheets. The average price of microfiber sheets starts at $15.

The Final Verdict – Pros And Cons

Cotton Sheets

Pros

• Made from a natural material
• Breathable
• Hypoallergenic
• Durable
• Suitable for hot sleepers
• Suitable for those with allergies and sensitive skin
• Environment-friendly

Cons

• High-maintenance
• Prone to shrinking and wrinkling
• Pricey

Microfiber Sheets

Pros

• Low-maintenance
• Soft and comfortable
• Cost-friendly
• Silky
• Don’t shrink or wrinkle
• Suitable for colder months and cold climates

Cons

• Trap heat
• Stain easily
• Not as durable

Conclusion

Just like anything in life, even cotton and microfiber sheets have their advantages and disadvantages. Depending on your needs and requirements, both types of sheets can be a suitable choice.

We recommend you study our comparison thoroughly and see which types of sheets and properties fit you and your needs betters.

If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, of course, you’re going to choose cotton sheets. On the other hand, if you’re prone to feeling cold, or you live in a cold climate, you’re going to choose the microfiber sheets. Regardless of your choice, always make sure to invest in good bedding, because that alone can make or break a good night’s sleep.