There’s nothing quite like a set of fresh bed sheets, is there? Changing them isn’t the easiest of tasks (especially if you’re on your own), but once you’ve got your fresh sheets on, it’s all you can do not to jump right into bed! Many would agree that it’s one of the best feelings in the world. Of course, buying high quality bed sheets is a must if you want to make your bed time experiences as amazing as possible.
One of the most popular and widely available choices out there for bed sheets is microfiber. Microfiber has plenty of pros, but a few cons too - just like any other bed sheet material you can find. You have lots to consider when choosing your next bed sheet set! One of the most asked questions about microfiber sheets: do they breathe? Here, we’ll explore this question in more detail so you can get a good idea of the right sheet set for you!
About The Thread Count
All linens come with a specific “thread count”, which is the number of threads that are woven together per square inch of fabric. Both the lengthwise and widthwise threads are counted. For example, 100 lengthwise threads woven with 100 widthwise threads produces a thread count of 200. You can usually consider a thread count of 300 or higher a good quality sheet. You can expect sheets with a thread count like this to be more comfortable and soft to the touch. Although you want to make sure you get the right fabric, you also need to take thread count into consideration first!
You can expect sheets of a higher thread count to be more expensive, but you’ll also get a better sleeping experience.
About Cotton
Let’s talk a little bit about cotton too. It’s undoubtedly the most common material alongside microfiber. Some people assume that cotton is better than microfiber, but this isn’t the case. There are many factors that should go into deciding which is ‘better’, not just the material! For example, a low thread count will be scratchy and no good for sensitive skin. Although cotton is known for its breathability, it can wreak havoc on sensitive skin if you don’t consider the thread count first. Cotton can also be prone to piling, so may be no good if you wash your sheets very regularly and want them to last. When looking at cotton, remember that the longer the fiber the better because the sheets will turn out stronger and higher quality.
About Microfiber
Now, let’s talk about microfiber! This material is made from very thin, synthetic threads. Microfiber is even thinner than silk. This material is made from polyester or nylon, but other variations of microfiber fabrics also exist. They can be made from wood pulp and nylon polymers too.
Microfiber sheets tend to be very thin, but in spite of that, are strong and exceptionally smooth and comfortable.
Do Microfiber Sheets Breathe?
The thing to bear in mind about microfiber is that it’s a man made fabric, as opposed to cotton which is a natural fabric. The fact that they are man made can put some people off, but you should explore with an open mind first. One thing that attracts many people to microfiber sheets is the price. You can usually find a high quality set of microfiber sheets for a reasonable price, but consumers want to be sure they are getting the right features. Breathable sheets are important for the best night’s rest! So, let’s answer the question: do microfiber sheets breathe?
Microfiber fabric repels water because they are tightly woven and the fine threads prevent liquid from seeping through. As microfiber is a manmade material, it won’t breathe as well as cotton, bamboo, and other natural sheet fabrics. This means it probably isn’t the best choice for those tend to get hot while sleeping.
Don’t take this the wrong way: microfiber sheets do offer a warm and comfortable sleeping experience. You won’t get sweaty under there as the material is good with moisture! The fact that they aren’t as breathable doesn’t make them a bad choice. However, you are likely to be warmer when you choose a microfiber sheet set over a cotton sheet set. Cotton allows air to flow through freely, but microfiber does not.
Although microfiber fabrics tend to wick moisture away from the body, they do trap body heat too. This means they can be great for use in winter and for those who feel the cold more, but not for those who heat up easily and feel stuffy while they sleep. If you’re in the latter category, then microfiber sheets could easily wake you up in the middle of the night and disrupt your quality of sleep. If you want to be warm, cozy, and comfortable, great! Choose microfiber. If you want to stay cool and comfortable, as well as avoid skin irritation, then cotton is probably better. However, do not underestimate how important it is to consider that thread count! The humidity and temperature of your home is probably a wise thing to think about too.
In Conclusion
No, microfiber sheets don’t breathe as well as other materials. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy them. It just means you need to carefully consider what’s important to you in a sheet set, so you can end up with the perfect set for your needs. Ask yourself:
- What material do I need?
- Do I have sensitive skin?
- Do I like to stay cool or be as warm as possible while I sleep?
- What is the temperature like where I live?
- What is the thread count of this set?
For instance, if you have sensitive skin and want to stay warm, a high quality microfiber set would do the job.
If you want to purchase high quality microfiber sheets, click here.
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