Cotton vs. Microfiber Sheets: Which is Better?

By Hannah Obal
February 18, 2022

It’s always fun searching the net for quality bed sheets, especially if it’s time to upgrade your sheets.

Until you’re faced with the simple question—do I get cotton sheets, or do I get microfiber sheets?

It seems like an easy decision until you realize that you don’t know the difference between the two or which is better.

But don’t worry.

You’ll know exactly what sets cotton sheets and microfiber sheets apart by the end of this article.

What Are Cotton Sheets?

Cotton is a strong, flexible fiber produced from cotton plants. Cotton has been harvested and used by civilizations for thousands of years. It remains one of the most popular fabrics available today, especially when it comes to bed sheets.

Cotton sheets are a staple at any home decor store and department store, and you're bound to find a hundred different iterations of them.

But are they for you?

Pros and Cons of Cotton Sheets

Looking at what cotton sheets offer is a great place to start if you’re thinking of getting them. But, of course, with the pros, you also need to look at the cons. It’s only fair, right?

Besides, it’s the best way to know more about them, and it will help you decide if cotton sheets are something you need in your home.

Here are some pros and cons of owning cotton sheets:

Pros of Cotton Sheets

Available in Many Different Varieties

We’re talking about a hundred thousand different designs, sizes, thread counts, and types. The choices are endless. As we like to say, there’s a cotton sheet for everyone.

Pocket Friendly

Another great thing is that cotton sheets have inexpensive options. You can get cotton sheets for as low as $35.

Easily Available

Whether you buy your sheets online or get them at the closest home decor store, cotton sheets are everywhere, making them widely accessible and available. Ruined some sheets? Whip out that phone and order some online!

Great for People With Allergies

Yes, organic cotton sheets are a wonderful treat for those suffering from allergies. Why? Organic cotton sheets are breathable, meaning moisture can’t be trapped in them. Allergen won’t be able to survive.

No Fuss and Low Maintenance

Cotton sheets are bedsheets that are straight to the point. There is no need to fuss over it or have some sort of complicated washing procedure.

Offers a Lot More

What we like about cotton bed sheets is that they’re breathable, moisture-resistant, and durable. A good quality set of bed sheets, paired with the proper care, can last a long time.

Cons of Cotton Sheets

Inflated Thread Counts

Just because the thread count is higher doesn’t mean it’s better. Sometimes, it means that the thread count’s been potentially inflated. Some manufacturers boost the thread count by using double- or triple-ply threads. These threads are usually lower in quality.

Expensive Variations

Though you can get inexpensive cotton bed sheets, if you want to experience luxurious cotton sheets, you’ll have to dole out a good amount of money to get your hands on some. Luxury sheets can cost anywhere from $300 up to $2000.

What Are Microfiber Sheets?

If your sheets are made from finely woven nylon polyester, wood pulp, or polyesters, then there’s a 100% chance of having microfiber sheets in your hands.

Because it’s made of synthetic fibers, microfiber sheets are less likely to wrinkle or shrink compared to cotton sheets.

If you want good, soft, and smooth sheets, the microfiber sheets are an excellent option for you and your family. But remember, the wave of the sheets can affect quality and durability.

For example, a flat weave on microfiber sheets means it can repel moisture and is stain-resistant. Meanwhile, a waffle weave can mean the sheet traps heat in, which isn’t something you’d probably like to sleep with during a hot summer night.

Pros and Cons of Microfiber Sheets

Since we took a look at the pros and cons of cotton sheets, it’s only fitting to look at what microfiber sheets have to offer. Here’s a list of their pros and cons:

Pros of Microfiber Sheets

Low Maintenance

Once again, like cotton sheets, microfiber sheets are very low maintenance. You can wash them on their own, so they don’t pick up lint. You also won’t need to iron them since they stay wrinkle-free.

Great for Kids and Teens

A flat weave microfiber sheet will go great on your kids' beds. It’s soft on the skin and very lightweight. Tightly woven, microfiber sheets are also durable and help prevent accidents in bed from turning into a nightmare.

Great for People With Allergies

Like cotton sheets, microfiber sheets are also great for those who have allergies as they discourage the growth of indoor allergens.

Keeps You Warm

Though microfiber is breathable, it’s pretty good at trapping heat and regulating body temperature, which makes them perfect for places with cooler climates. If you’re the type of person who gets chilly at night, a microfiber sheet can help solve the problem.

Cons of Microfiber Sheets

Waffle-Patterned Microfiber Can Be A Hassle

So, there are a few things we have to list out as cons for microfiber sheets, mainly that it’s prone to getting stains and absorbing moisture. If you opt for microfiber sheets, check the weave type.

It Can Get Staticky

If you move a lot in your sleep and have microfiber sheets on, you’ll notice that it can get staticky. Nothing too crazy, and it doesn’t cause any pain, but it can be annoying for some.

Choosing Between Microfiber Sheets vs. Cotton Sheets

Now, choosing between cotton sheets or microfiber ones can be a tricky decision to make. We’ve listed out the pros and cons, but if you still can’t make up your mind, here are a few more things you can base your decision on.

Below, we’ve listed how cotton sheets and microfiber sheets fare, taking into consideration breathability, feel, and durability.

Breathability

Cotton Sheets	Microfiber Sheets
Natural breathability for sheets that are 100% cotton. Air can circulate easily through the fabric regardless of body heat and climate. It helps prevent night sweats and overheating while sleeping because it is absorbent and quick-drying. It’s a good choice for those who usually sleep hot.	It’s very breathable despite being synthetic. It helps regulate body temperature because of its heat-wicking and moisture repelling properties.

Feel

Cotton Sheets	Microfiber Sheets
Cotton sheets are cozy. They have a smooth finish suitable for those with sensitive skin or autoimmune diseases.	You can expect high-quality microfiber bedsheets to be soft and comfy. It has a silkier feel than cotton sheets.

Durability

Cotton Sheets	Microfiber Sheets
It won’t lose its shape, even with constant washing. It can last 2 to 3 years of constant washing until they become too thin.	Very rarely pills. Repels liquids so less prone to get stains from spills or accidents. It can withstand high-temperature washes and won’t lose its shape. More resistant to wrinkle compared to cotton sheets.

What We Recommend

After everything we’ve listed out, having cotton sheets in your closest is a good option. But if you want you and your family to have better sleep, we highly recommend using microfiber sheets.

They’re long-lasting, have great value for money, and come in many different prints and styles.

Ready to shop for microfiber sheets? Give these a try:

Ballerina Ultra Microfiber Bed Sheet Set