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Best flannel bed sheets

Which flannel bed sheets are best?

The warmth of flannel sheets is well-known, and some people sleep better in the winter with warm flannel sheets. Plenty of options are available when it comes to flannel sheets, including those that are luxurious and breathable. 

For high-quality and soft, 100% cotton flannel bed sheets, Ruvanti 100% Cotton 4-Piece Flannel Sheets is a smart choice. 

What to know before you buy flannel bed sheets

Fabric

Different types of bed sheets offer varying levels of comfort, durability and cost. For sheet sets, cotton is popular in all segments of the bedding market. Microfiber sheets are affordable and soft because they are made of extremely fine polyester fibers. Unlike traditional polyester fabric, microfiber is less likely to pill. Those with sensitive skin shouldn't choose polyester since it is less breathable than cotton. Between 200-400 threads are typically considered to be the most desirable thread count for sheets; texture tends to be rougher for thread counts under 180. 

What is flannel?

Cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers are all used to make different types of flannel. Flannel refers to the design rather than the materials used to create the fabric. Any fabric that follows the standard flannel patterns is considered to be flannel. This means there are many kinds of fabrics with fuzzy finishes, including fleece, which comes in a variety of colors and patterns that are considered flannel. 

Flannel sheet benefits 

Generally, both sides of flannel sheets have a brushed nap that make the fabric extra soft. Flannel sheets that are brushed on the surface also trap body heat, yet still allow air to reach the skin. In the cold months, flannel sheets are ideal because of their soft, cozy feel against the skin. Combining cotton and man-made fibers in flannel results in sheets with a longer lifespan than if made from cotton alone. During the manufacturing process, while using a plain or twill weave, microcells are formed that trap air. Microcells are also responsible for keeping the fabric soft. A flannel sheet set produced with this manufacturing process is usually very absorbent, so it can wick away moisture from the body.

What to look for in a quality flannel bed sheet

100% cotton flannel bed sheet

Cotton is blended with other fibers and materials to create various products and can be turned into flannel. The difference between cotton and flannel is that cotton is a plant, while flannel is a style. Sheets made from 100% cotton are lightweight and breathable, which will appeal to many shoppers. In addition to allowing the skin to breathe more easily, cotton fabrics also feel drier than synthetic fibers. 

Polyester blends 

In flannel bed sheets, cotton and polyester blends are common. Fibers of cotton are strengthened by the addition of polyester. In addition to creating a durable sheet, this process results in large amounts of fiber clusters. The polyester in blended sheets sticks together and generates static electricity. Since cotton and polyester blends stick together, cotton-polyester sheets are prone to forming prickly pills.

Microfiber 

Micro-flannel is cheaper than cotton flannel, as most synthetic sheets are. Polyester synthetic fibers are very strong and durable, which is why they are used in yarns. Micro-flannel sheets maintain their velvety feel longer than cotton flannel sheets because they don't break as easily as cotton fibers. Due to their increased number of thin filaments, microfiber yarns feel softer than cotton flannel. By brushing the microfiber base fabric, millions upon millions of these filaments are raised, making the sheet feel extremely smooth. 

How much you can expect to spend on flannel bed sheets

The cost of high-quality cotton flannel bed sheets will be higher than that of microfiber synthetic flannel sheets. Depending on the size and material, flannel bed sheets can cost anywhere from $25-$100 dollars.  

Flannel bed sheet FAQ

What is organic cotton? 

A. In organic cotton, no pesticides or harmful chemicals are used, and it is made from natural seeds. This makes organic cotton products safer for skin. The traditional method of growing cotton in the same soil repeatedly leads to soil degradation, the loss of nutrients and unhealthy crops, which makes organic cotton better for the earth. 

Which are warmer: fleece or flannel bed sheets?

A. Typically made from man-made materials, fleece is a knit fabric. Fabrics like fleece are created by wrapping threads around one another, resulting in a thicker fabric. As a result of its ability to trap heat better, fleece is commonly considered warmer than cotton or polyester flannel. The tightly woven fleece traps heat because it leaves very small spaces between threads. The result is a heavier and more insulated product than flannel. Some may find this ideal, while others may find it uncomfortable. 

What’s the best flannel bed sheet to buy?

Top flannel bed sheet 

Ruvanti 100% Cotton 4 Piece Flannel Sheets

What you need to know: A flat and fitted sheet that is lightweight, 100% cotton with a deep pocket fit secured with elastic stitching.  

What you’ll love: The material is soft, warm, breathable, moisture wicking and washes well because it is durable and fade resistant. 

What you should consider: Double-check sizing chart before ordering to assure the deep pocket fit will work for the mattress size. 

Where to buy: Amazon

Top flannel bed sheet for the money

Eddie Bauer Flannel Collection

What you need to know: A set of pre-shrunk 100% cotton premium cotton plaid sheets with two matching pillowcases. 

What you’ll love: The sheets are brushed three times for extra softness, making them cozy and warm, perfect for warm sleepers and cold climates. 

What you should consider: These sheets must be washed carefully according to directions to avoid damage such as fraying. 

Where to buy: Amazon

Worth checking out

Thread Count 100% Cotton Double Brushed Flannel Sheet Set

What you need to know: This set of 170-gram cotton flannel sheets and pillowcases are soft and breathable. 

What you’ll love: The cotton is brushed on both sides making the sheets feel comfortable. 

What you should consider: Expect a great deal of lint when washing and drying these sheets. 

Where to buy: Amazon

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Elizabeth Foley writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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