The Comprehensive Guide for Buying Microfiber Sheets
How Are Microfiber Bed Sheets Made?
According to Sewport, microfiber bed sheets are made using extremely fine synthetic fibers to create a durable, ultra-soft set of sheets. Such fine fibers are created by combining the synthetic fibers and heating them in long metal tubes.
Once the fibers make their way through the heated tubing, the resulting product will then go through the following processes: Buying microfiber bed sheets can be overwhelming when you like to be an informed shopper. You may wonder what microfiber even is. Or why is it such an affordable material? Would a microfiber sheet set even be soft enough for your preferences?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we spend roughly a third of our lives in bed. If that’s not a good enough reason to pick the most comfortable sheet sets available, we’re not sure what is.
Keep reading to discover if microfiber sheets are the right sheets for you.
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- A cooling stage
- Once cooled, the material will be melded with polyamide strips
- The material is heated and cooled again
- The resulting fibers will then be dyed — in some cases, this stage also includes chemical treatments that aid in specific qualities desired in the final product, such as heat resistance
- The microfiber thread is then complete and ready to be woven into the fabric
I’m Looking into Buying Microfiber Sheets, but What Are They Made of Exactly?
Sewport notes that microfiber is most commonly made from a combination of polyester and nylon. Polyester is a strong material that makes up the substance of the microfiber material and then nylon (polyamide) is used as a “filler substance” that provides softness. The resulting product is ultra-soft and very durable.
How To Know if You’re Getting Quality Microfiber Sheets
According to the Sleep Foundation, unlike other fabrics, microfiber is not generally measured by thread count. Instead, microfiber sheets are measured by weight in grams per square meter (GSM). The higher the GSM, the heavier the sheet. The Sleep Foundation recommends looking for microfiber sheets with a GSM between 90 - 120 if you want a high-quality set.
Common Weaves
According to the Sleep Foundation, the most common weaves for microfiber sheets are the sateen weave and the percale weave:
- The sateen weave: This weave uses a four-up, one-over pattern that makes the fabric warm and wrinkle-resistant and gives the appearance of a “sheen” finish.
- The percale weave: This weave uses a one-up, one-over pattern that makes the fabric stronger and more breathable with a matte finish.
Does It Matter if the Microfiber Is “Brushed”?
According to the Sleep Foundation, brushed microfiber sheets are softer. Microfiber sheets that are “double brushed” mean that both sides of the sheets have been brushed, making them even softer. Double-brushed sheets like these double-brushed microfiber bed sheets from Southshore Fine Linens are supremely soft and luxurious.
The Pros and Cons of Microfiber Bed Sheets
The pros and cons of microfiber sheets are very dependent on individual preference. Here are some considerations recommended by the Sleep Foundation:
Pros of Microfiber Sheets
- Ultra-soft
- Warm
- Can be breathable
- Very durable
- Moisture wicking
- Wrinkle-resistant
- Cost-effective
- Tight woven fibers make them dust mite and microbe-resistant
- Machine washable (follow the directions on labels for specifications)
Cons of Microfiber Sheets
- Can be prone to staining compared to other fabrics
- May cause static
- Not as environmentally friendly as natural fabrics
- They may be too warm for hot sleepers
Other Considerations
Temperature Preferences
People who live in colder climates prefer microfiber sheets as they hold heat well. People who tend to be hot sleepers would do better with sheets made of natural fibers.
Cleanliness and Care
Microfiber sheets are machine washable, stain resistant, and hold their color well. However, the absorbency factor makes staining still a possibility with microfiber. If you’re a bedtime snacker, consider an alternative fabric or a darker-colored sheet set.
The Aesthetic
Since microfiber bed sheets are wrinkle-resistant, you’re more likely to get a crisp clean look. Microfiber also comes in a plethora of different colors and styles. Whether you prefer a simple or bold set of solid color sheets or you’re always looking for statement sheet sets with patterned sheets, you can find comfort and style easily with microfiber.
Microfiber Sheets vs. Cotton Sheets
Microfiber and cotton sheets can both be very soft, cozy, durable, and warm (when made with quality materials and in the right weave/thread count). So, when it comes to choosing microfiber vs cotton sheets, it will depend on the factors that matter the most to you. For example, consider the following:
What Type of “Soft” Are You Looking For?
Microfiber can be described as “silky” soft, and cotton is generally defined as more breathable and “cozy” soft.
Are You Insistent on Durability?
Natural fibers tend to be less durable, breaking down gradually over time. Microfiber is very durable and shrink-resistant, but because it can be absorbent, may stain if you’re not careful (consider a dark color if you’re prone to night sweats).
Price Point
If you’re desiring quality sheet sets, you’re going to pay less for microfiber. Quality cotton tends to get more expensive the higher the quality and thread count.
The Environmental Factor
Synthetic fibers such as microfiber aren’t as environmentally friendly as natural fibers like cotton. Sewport notes that although microfiber fabric isn’t the top cause of microfiber pollution, it does contribute to pollution, and the chemicals used during manufacturing are harmful to the environment. Plus, synthetic fabrics aren’t biodegradable. However, there are ways to find recycled options, and you can shop for companies that are STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX certified to cut back on the impact.
For cotton sheets, check out these cotton sheet sets from Southshore Fine Linens that are OEKO-TEX 100 Certified or OEKO MADE IN GREEN.
Find Luxury Microfiber Sheets at Southshore Fine Linens
At Southshore Fine Linens, you will find ultra-soft, wrinkle-resistant, hypoallergenic, and dust-mite-resistant luxury microfiber sheets. These quality sheets are also guaranteed not to shrink, pill, or fade quickly. When buying microfiber sheets, knowing the ins and outs of what you’re paying for is essential.
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Sources:
Fountain, L. (2023). Best Material for Bed Sheets.
Meadows, A. (2023). Microfiber vs. Cotton Sheets.
NIOSH Training for Nurses on Shift Work and Long Work Hours. (2020).
Noyed, D. (2024). Best Microfiber Sheets.
Noyed, D. (2023). What Is the Best Thread Count for Sheets? Here’s the Magic Number.
What is Microfibre Fabric: Properties, How its Made and Where. (2024).
