Maybe it's the summer weather, or maybe you just sleep hot. Either way, the right material can help you stay cool and comfortable at night and avoid that too-hot-to-sleep feeling.
What to look for:
Linen or cotton are the best options for summer-weight sheets, unsurprisingly. Sweaty sleepers will appreciate linen's moisture-wicking capabilities, and the lighter weight and breathability makes it ideal for hotter weather. Linen sheets can be very pricey, but you can save by mixing a linen top sheet with a more durable cotton fitted sheet beneath it. Linen often feels rougher than cotton, so if you're sensitive to scratchy textures, linen might not be for you.
For cotton sheets, look for percale weave, which breathes better than sateen. The minimum thread count for percale cotton is 180, but choose sheets with a thread count between 200 and 300 — this weight promotes airflow without sacrificing softness or durability.
Bamboo-derived sheets might be a good choice for sleepers with eczema or sensitive skin, according to Prevention. The soft-textured material slides easily across the skin, while its moisture-wicking properties help you stay dry and comfortable. Acne sufferers might benefit from its natural antibacterial properties, which combine with its absorbency to reduce bacterial overgrowth.
What to avoid:
Put fleece and flannel sheets away for the summer, along with stretchy jersey sheets, synthetic materials like polyester, or cotton sateen, which traps heat along the skin.
