As summer approaches, many of us will be looking for ways to stay cool during the hot nights. Not every house is equipped with air conditioning afterall! One simple solution is to invest in cotton bedding. Not only does it provide a cool and comfortable sleeping environment, but it also offers numerous benefits for sleepers. In this article, we'll explore why cotton bed sheets are your best bedding choice for summer, what to look out for when selecting your summer bed sheets, the benefits of cotton bed sheets, and the different types of cottons used in commercial bed sheets.
Benefits Of Cotton Bed Sheets: Why it is you best choice for summer
When it comes to choosing the best bedding material for hot summer nights, cotton bed sheets should definitely be at the top of your list. There are several reasons why cotton bed sheets are a great option for summer:
Breathable
There are several reasons why cotton bed sheets are a great option for summer, and one of them is their breathability and lightweight nature. Cotton is produced from natural fibers, making it an excellent choice for bedding as it allows for good airflow and helps prevent that trapped feeling often experienced with synthetic fabrics.
Fuss Free
Cotton bed sheets are very low maintenance, providing relief for those who don't want to invest too much time or money into caring for their bedding. Unlike other fabrics that require fancy powders, premium detergents, and fabric softeners, cotton bed sheets only need mild detergent and sometimes a little white vinegar. You can easily machine wash them at a temperature of 35 to 40 degrees, and they're good to go.
Durable
cotton bed sheets are known for their durability, which is essential during the summer season when we tend to wash our bedding more frequently. Cotton bedding accessories have a long lifespan, making them a smart investment and helping you save some bucks.
Affordable
Last but not least, cotton bed sheets are affordable and efficient. They fulfill all your bedding needs and are available in various sizes, making them ideal for everyone. Even premium quality cotton bedding is very reasonably priced. If you're on a budget and looking for quality cotton bedding, check out our bed sheet range at Student Essentials.
Sustainable
Unlike other synthetic materials, cotton is 100% biodegradable. In the middle of climate crisis, it doesn’t hurt being a little bit eco-friendly.
What To Look Out For When Selecting Your Summer Bed Sheets
When looking for summer bedding, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, you want to look for bed sheets made with resistant and durable material to last you through the season and the next, even when you wash them more often than you usually would in other seasons. You also want to choose breathable materials that support airflow, wick away heat, and can protect you from getting drenched in your sweat at night. If you're prone to allergies, consider looking out for materials that are hypoallergenic to protect you from allergic reactions from allergens like dust mites, dander, and bed bugs that can disturb your night's rest. Finally, opt for lighter colors that reflect heat rather than absorb it, making them suitable for keeping the beddings cool during summer nights. Read our review for the best affordable cotton bed sheet options in the market.
Different Types Of Cottons Used In Commercial Bed Sheets
There are four different species of cotton that people grow to sell commercially: levant cotton, tree cotton, Egyptian cotton, and upland cotton. Typically, you'll see only upland cotton and Egyptian cotton in stores. Knowing the difference between these species will help you have a better idea of what you're buying.
Egyptian cotton bed sheets
Egyptian cotton bed sheets are known for their luxurious feel and exceptional quality. They are made from the cotton grown in Egypt's Nile River Valley, which is known for producing long-staple cotton fibers that are softer, stronger, and more durable than other types of cotton.
Egyptian cotton bed sheets are characterized by their high thread count, which makes them feel incredibly soft and smooth to the touch. They are also known for their breathability and ability to regulate temperature, making them an excellent choice for hot summer nights.
The downside of Egyptian cotton bed sheets is that they can be quite expensive compared to other types of cotton. Pay close attention that there is a lot of fraud in the "Egyptian cotton" market as it has been marketed for “luxury”. We recommend you to do a thorough research before buying an expensive bed sheet made of egyptian cotton.
Upland cotton bed sheets
Upland cotton bed sheets are made from the cotton that is grown in the southern United States. Upland cotton is known for its shorter staple length, which means it is less durable and less soft than Egyptian cotton. However, recent advancements in technology have allowed upland cotton to produce fibers that are comparable in quality to Egyptian cotton.
Upland cotton bed sheets are more affordable than Egyptian cotton bed sheets, making them a popular choice among consumers. They are also more water-resistant than Egyptian cotton, making them an excellent choice for those who tend to sweat during the night.
The downside of upland cotton bed sheets is that they may not feel as soft and luxurious as Egyptian cotton bed sheets.
Supima cotton bed sheets
Supima cotton is a high-quality type of cotton that is grown in the United States. It is made from long-staple cotton fibers, which makes it more durable and softer than regular cotton. The name "Supima" is actually a brand name, and it stands for "superior pima." The cotton is grown under strict guidelines, which ensures that it meets certain standards.
One of the main benefits of Supima cotton bed sheets is their softness. The long-staple fibers create a smooth and silky texture that feels luxurious to the touch. The sheets also have a natural sheen that makes them look elegant and refined. In addition to their softness, Supima cotton bed sheets are also highly durable. They can withstand multiple washes without losing their quality, which means they will last longer than regular cotton sheets.
However, Supima cotton bed sheets can be more expensive than other types of cotton sheets. This is because the cotton is grown in limited quantities and because the fibers are longer, they require special processing techniques that add to the cost of production.
Levant cotton bed sheets
Levant cotton is a type of cotton that is grown primarily in the Middle East. This cotton has a long, lustrous staple fiber that makes it ideal for producing high-quality textiles, including bed sheets. Levant cotton bed sheets are known for their softness, durability, and ability to resist pilling. They are also highly breathable, which makes them ideal for hot summer nights.
One of the drawbacks of Levant cotton bed sheets is that they tend to wrinkle easily. This can make them difficult to care for, as they may require ironing to look their best. Additionally, Levant cotton is not as widely available as other types of cotton, so it may be more difficult to find Levant cotton bed sheets in stores.
Tree cotton bed sheets
One of the harder ones to find in the market, tree cotton, also known as kapok, is a type of cotton that comes from the kapok tree. This cotton has a hollow fiber, which makes it highly breathable and moisture-wicking. Tree cotton bed sheets are also naturally hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for those with allergies or sensitive skin.
One of the drawbacks of tree cotton bed sheets is that they are not as durable as other types of cotton. They may also require special care, as they can be damaged by high heat in the dryer.
Organic cotton bed sheets
Organic cotton is a type of cotton that is grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Organic cotton bed sheets are known for being environmentally friendly and sustainable. They are also highly breathable and hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for those with allergies or sensitive skin.
One of the benefits of organic cotton bed sheets is that they are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. They are also highly durable and resistant to pilling, which means they will last longer than other types of cotton bed sheets.
However, organic cotton bed sheets may be more expensive than other types of cotton bed sheets, as the process of growing and harvesting organic cotton is more labor-intensive. It used to be more difficult to find organic cotton bed sheets, but as awareness of climate change is rising, they are a little bit easier to find nowadays.
Conclusion
If you want a comfortable and cool night’s sleep during summer, cotton bed sheets are the best option. They are breathable, durable, easy to care for, and hypoallergenic. When selecting your summer bed sheets, look for durable, breathable, and hypoallergenic materials in lighter colors. Cotton bed sheets offer many benefits, including breathability, easy maintenance, durability, and biodegradability. By choosing cotton beddings, you can have a comfortable and eco-friendly sleep.