Nothing would ruin a good night’s rest like scratchy, uncomfortable bed sheets. Especially for Singapore’s sweltering hot tropical nights, selecting the right set of bed sheets is crucial for ensuring you get the shut-eye you deserve.
From material, weave, to even the thread count of each bed sheet, there are a multitude of factors to consider when you’re looking for the perfect set of bed sheets. Here’s a guide to choosing the ideal bed sheets for some quality uninterrupted sleep.
What are the different types of bed sheets in the market?
| Material | How it feels | Best for | Price point |
| Cotton | Soft, breathable | All-season use | Moderate, High if you want higher grades like Egyptian or Pima cotton |
| Tencel | Silky, cool to touch | Hot sleepers, humid weather | High |
| Bamboo | Soft, moisture wicking | Hot sleepers, Allergies | Moderate |
| Microfibre | Soft, lightweight | Budget-conscious buyers | Low |
| Silk | Smooth, luxurious | Sensitive skin, hot sleepers | High |
| Polyester | Durable, wrinkle-resistant | Easy care, budget | Low |
| Linen | Crisp, breathable | Hot & humid weather | High |
A set of bed sheets that meets your specific needs has the potential to significantly impact your sleep quality. For Singapore’s tropical climate, breathable fabrics like linen, bamboo, and cotton are popular choices. As shown in the table above, these options effectively regulate body heat.
Image credit: Oak and Sand
Tencel, a sustainable alternative made from eucalyptus, offers exceptional softness without compromising on breathability. While microfiber is also lightweight, its lack of breathability makes it less suitable for Singapore’s hot weather.
Premium bed sheet options
Some other common bed sheet materials include Egyptian and Pima cotton, which are premium options with exceptional softness and durability. While they tend to be pricier than standard cotton, their long-lasting comfort makes them a worthwhile investment for many. FYI, most luxury hotels use Egyptian cotton sheets.
What does bed sheet weave mean?
Another factor you can consider is the bed sheet’s weave style, which refers to the way the fabric is constructed. bed sheets made from the same material but different weave style will differ dramatically due to the difference in construction. Here’s a short description of each weave style:
| Weave | How it feels |
| Percale | Crisp, cool, lightweight |
| Sateen | Smooth, silky, slightly heavier than other weaves |
| Twill | Durable, soft |
| Flannel | Soft, warm, fuzzy |
| Jersey | Stretchy, T-shirt-like |
What is thread count?
Put simply, thread count refers to the number of threads per square inch of fabric. While you might’ve heard that higher thread count equals higher quality, this is not necessarily true.
In fact, higher thread counts beyond 100 can be deceptive in nature, as the number of threads can be inflated using various methods to appeal to the average consumer. Focus on the overall feel and quality of the fabric rather than solely relying on the thread count. You should only take note of thread count when purchasing 100% cotton sheets, as it could be a sign that fine yarn was used—resulting in a smoother feel on the skin.
GOTS, OEKO-TEX, USDA, Sedex━what do they mean?
Image credit: Weavvehome
In spite of how intimidating these terms sound, they’re actually something you might want to see stamped on the bed sheet packaging if you’re looking for toxin-free sheets, especially for your little ones. These are global certification bodies that ensure organic and ethical production of textiles. Here’s a summary:
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): Ensures organic status of textiles from harvesting to labeling.
- OEKO-TEX: Certifies that textiles are free from harmful substances.
- Sedex: Focuses on ethical business practices and supply chain management.
- USDA Organic: Certifies organic cotton fibres.
These certifications are an assurance of high-quality materials, ensuring the “organic” label on your bed linen isn’t just for show.
How often should I change my bed sheets?
It’s advisable to change and wash your bed sheets every 1-2 weeks to maintain proper hygiene. In humid climates like Singapore’s, where increased sweat and bacteria buildup is common, consider changing your sheets every week for a fresher sleep environment.
Guide to choosing bed sheets
Ultimately, the perfect bed sheet is entirely subjective—some options are better for hot sleepers, while those with sensitive skin will find comfort in other materials.
Experiment with different brands, materials and weaves—with a multitude of quality bedding stores in Singapore, it won’t be long until you find the perfect combination for sweet dreams.
Read out other home & living guides here:
- A guide on practising Feng Shui at home
- How to finance your home renovation
- Best house cleaning services in Singapore
Cover image adapted from: Salzwasser, Sartor
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