Cotton Types

• You will find several types of cotton used to make sheets. The preferred type is called extra-long staple (ELS) cotton, which has longer fibers than other cottons and therefore results in softer sheets. Egyptian, Pima, and Supima (Pima grown in the U.S.) are all ELS cottons.
  
  

Cotton Blends

• In addition to 100 percent cotton, you will also find polycotton blends. Made from a mixture of polyester and cotton, polycotton sheets need less (if any) ironing and are usually less expensive than pure cotton. However, polycottons can be stiff, and feel rougher against the skin. You will generally enjoy the feel of 100 percent cotton sheets more than polycottons.
  
  

Thread Count

• Thread count is merely the number of threads per inch. The greater the thread count, the softer and more flexible the sheet. Higher thread counts usually indicate higher-quality sheets, since it takes a longer and stronger thread to make them. Thread count is affected by whether the thread used is single-ply or double-ply. A double-ply sheet technically has double the thread count although it uses coarser thread. Choose sheets with a high thread count (at least 200 threads per inch) and single-ply thread.
  
  

Weave

• Weave is simply the patterns formed by the threads when they are woven together. A sateen weave (do not confuse this with "satin") is an extremely soft but less durable weave with four threads woven over one thread. It has more vertical than horizontal threads. A pinpoint weave has two woven over one. It is more durable, but slightly less soft. Percale is a plain weave that is very durable. Damask is a pattern that is woven into the material primarily for decorative purposes.
  
  

Feel

• All of the above factors contribute to the feel or "hand" of a set of sheets. In addition, the types and methods of dyeing and finishing the sheets affects how they feel. These things must be judged on an individual basis.
  
  

Fit

• Finally, do not make the mistake of thinking all sheets of a given size fit the same. While most of us recognize the "standard" sizes--such as twin, full, king--it is easy to forget that not all mattresses are the same thickness. This measurement is known as the "pocket," and you will want sheets with a pocket within three to five inches of the thickness of your mattress to ensure a good fit.