5 Things to Consider Before Buying Bed Sheets Online

4 min read

Key Takeaways:

• Choose a fabric that suits your climate, comfort preference, and sleeping habits.

• Don’t rely solely on thread count fabric quality and weave matter more.

• Always check mattress dimensions to ensure the perfect sheet fit.

Shopping for bed sheets online can be exciting, after all, few things feel better than sliding into a freshly made bed with crisp, comfortable sheets. But with endless options in fabric, style, and sizing, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. And unlike shopping in a store, you can’t touch or feel the sheets before buying, so it’s important to know what to look for. To help you choose the perfect set, here are five essential things to consider before adding bed sheets to your online cart.

1. What Fabric Will Suit You Best?

Fabric choice will have the biggest impact on how your sheets feel, how they perform, and how long they last. Each material has its own benefits:

• Cotton: The most popular choice, loved for its breathability and durability. Cotton sheets stay cool in summer, warm in winter, and get softer with each wash.

• Egyptian Cotton: Known for its extra-long fibres, Egyptian cotton produces incredibly soft, smooth sheets with superior durability. A luxury option worth investing in.

• Bamboo: Soft, silky, and eco-friendly. Bamboo is naturally hypoallergenic, breathable, and moisture-wicking, perfect for hot sleepers or those with allergies.

• Linen: A premium choice for summer, linen sheets have a relaxed, textured look and excellent breathability. They’re moisture-wicking, keeping you cool even on the hottest nights.

• Flannelette: Brushed cotton that’s warm, cosy, and perfect for winter. Flannelette sheets trap heat effectively while remaining soft to the touch.

When deciding, think about your sleeping habits and climate. For example, if you live in a warm, humid area, breathable fabrics like bamboo or linen are ideal. If you get chilly at night, flannelette or high-quality cotton will keep you comfortable. 

2. How Important Is Thread Count, Really?

Thread count is often seen as the ultimate quality indicator but that’s only part of the story. Thread count measures the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. While higher numbers can feel softer, this isn’t always the case.

A good quality sheet will generally have a thread count between 300 and 600. Anything higher can sometimes mean the threads are packed too tightly, reducing breathability and making sheets feel heavy. Lower-quality sheets can also artificially inflate thread count by using multi-ply threads, which don’t necessarily improve softness or durability.

The real secret is combining a quality fabric with the right weave. For example:

• Percale weave: Crisp, cool, and matte — great for hot sleepers.

• Sateen weave: Silky, smooth, and slightly heavier — perfect for a touch of luxury.

A well-made 400 thread count cotton sateen sheet will often outperform a cheaper 1000 thread count sheet in both comfort and longevity.

3. Will They Fit Your Mattress?

Size is more than just “Queen” or “King.” A perfectly fitted sheet makes all the difference to your sleep experience. Too small, and you’ll struggle to get it on; too big, and it will bunch up and feel messy.

Here’s what to check before buying:

• Length and width: Match the size to your mattress, Single, Long Single, King Single, Double, Queen, Split Queen, King, Split King or Super King.
  

• Depth: If you have a pillow-top mattress, mattress topper, or extra-deep mattress, make sure you choose extra-deep fitted sheets to accommodate it.
  

• Elastic quality: Look for sheets with strong, full-perimeter elastic for a secure fit.

At My Linen, we stock bed sheets from single to super king, with standard and extra-deep options so you can find the perfect fit for your bed without any hassle.

4. How Easy Are They to Care For?

Beautiful sheets are an investment and you’ll want them to stay looking and feeling great for years. Choosing easy-care sheets will save you time and effort in the long run.

Here’s what to consider:

• Machine washability: Most cotton and bamboo sheets can be machine washed. Linen can also be machine washed but often needs a gentler cycle.
  

• Drying: If you prefer tumble drying, check that the fabric is dryer-friendly. Bamboo and linen often benefit from air drying to preserve texture and longevity.
  

• Wrinkle resistance: Some fabrics like sateen are naturally less prone to wrinkling, while linen has a relaxed, lived-in look.
  

• Colour fastness: High-quality dyes will resist fading, even after multiple washes.
  

Always follow the care instructions provided with your sheets — it’s the easiest way to extend their lifespan.

5. Do They Match Your Bedroom Style?

Sheets are a major part of your bedroom’s overall look, so it’s worth thinking about how they’ll fit with your decor. Neutral tones like white, beige, or grey are timeless and easy to pair with any quilt cover. Soft pastels can bring a calming feel, while bold colours or patterns can make a statement. If you like to switch up your bedding regularly, consider a few versatile sets that can mix and match with different quilt covers, throws, and cushions. This makes it easy to refresh your bedroom without replacing all your bedding.

Bonus Tip: Read Reviews Before You Buy

One advantage of buying sheets online is the ability to read reviews from other customers. Reviews can give you insight into the feel, quality, and durability of the sheets from people who have already used them. At My Linen, we’re proud of our customer feedback and use it to continually improve our range.

Upgrade Your Sleep – Shop Bed Sheets Online at My Linen

Buying bed sheets online doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering fabric, thread count, fit, care requirements, and style, you can find sheets that look beautiful, feel amazing, and last for years.

At My Linen, we make it easy to choose bedding you’ll love with our carefully curated range of premium sheet sets in a variety of fabrics, colours, and sizes. Whether you want something soft and luxurious or cool and breathable, you’ll find it here. Shop My Linen’s full bed sheet collection today and bring home the perfect set for your bedroom.