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By Bed Threads Bedding 10.07.2020

How Cotton Stacks up To Other Bedding Materials

Trying to find the right bedding material for you? Here’s everything you need to know about cotton versus other materials.

Ever stopped to consider what material your bedding is made of? Most people don’t until it’s time to replace their old sheets and blankets.

While linen has been increasingly popular over the past few years, Textile Exchange reports that cotton is still one of the most popular bedding materials available — hardly a surprise, given that it’s the single most widely used natural fabric and is grown worldwide.

But cotton bedding isn’t only great merely because it’s commonly-used — the material’s qualities lend themselves especially well to what you’d want from a sheet or duvet. Cotton is famously soft, durable and breathable. What more could you ask for?

While it is popular, however, cotton isn’t the only option. Bedding is also made from other natural materials like linen, wool, silk, and even bamboo! There are also plenty of synthetic alternatives out there.

So, how does cotton stack up to the rest? Here, we’ve broken down how cotton bedding compares to other popular options to help you make the right decision for your bed.

A cozy bedroom featuring the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, a wooden bed frame, two minimalist art prints above the bed, white pillows, bedside tables with a white lamp and plant, and wooden floors.
A bed made with the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle is set against a white paneled wall, accented by abstract art above. A side table nearby holds a plant and books. Pillows complete the inviting look.
Two Aegean Organic Cotton Duvet Covers by Bed Threads, crafted with hotel-quality bedding, are folded and stacked on a wooden floor against a plain white wall.
A close-up of Bed Threads’ Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, featuring a fitted sheet on the mattress with a flat sheet draped over the edge—creating a soft, minimalistic scene that highlights premium organic cotton.
A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle and two pillows is set against a plain white wall on a dark wooden floor in a minimalistic, uncluttered room.
Two pillows from the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle are stacked on a small four-legged wooden stool, set against a plain white wall and dark wooden floor.
Two teal Aegean Organic Cotton Pillowcases (Set of Two) by Bed Threads are stacked on a wooden stool, displayed against a plain white wall and wooden floor.
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  • A cozy bedroom featuring the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, a wooden bed frame, two minimalist art prints above the bed, white pillows, bedside tables with a white lamp and plant, and wooden floors.
  • A bed made with the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle is set against a white paneled wall, accented by abstract art above. A side table nearby holds a plant and books. Pillows complete the inviting look.
  • Two Aegean Organic Cotton Duvet Covers by Bed Threads, crafted with hotel-quality bedding, are folded and stacked on a wooden floor against a plain white wall.
  • A close-up of Bed Threads’ Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, featuring a fitted sheet on the mattress with a flat sheet draped over the edge—creating a soft, minimalistic scene that highlights premium organic cotton.
  • A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle and two pillows is set against a plain white wall on a dark wooden floor in a minimalistic, uncluttered room.
  • Two pillows from the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle are stacked on a small four-legged wooden stool, set against a plain white wall and dark wooden floor.
  • Two teal Aegean Organic Cotton Pillowcases (Set of Two) by Bed Threads are stacked on a wooden stool, displayed against a plain white wall and wooden floor.
From £230.00 £184.00
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Cotton versus linen

Cotton and linen are both popular options for high-quality bedding, but how do the two compare? While these natural materials share some qualities, there are also important differences.

Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help weigh up between cotton versus linen for your bedding upgrade:

  • Temperature regulation: Cotton and linen are both excellent temperature regulators, but cotton fabric is generally more insulating. This makes it comfortable in warm climates, but also warm enough to help you stay cosy during the winter.
  • Ease of care: Cotton and linen fabrics can usually be washed in the washing machine, making them both very easy to care for. Compared to linen, cotton is even easier to take care of as it can be washed in warm water and tumble-dried without being damaged.
  • Style: Cotton and linen are both stylish fabrics. While linen bedding generally has a slightly crumpled, lived-in look that evokes easy luxury, cotton bedding offers clean lines and a smooth finish for hotel-like perfection.
  • Feel: Cotton and linen fabrics can be very soft to the touch, making them perfect for bedding. Cotton bed sheets often have a delightfully smooth, crisp feel, while linen fabrics can be buttery soft and luxurious against the skin.
A cozy bedroom with a neatly made bed featuring the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, a floor lamp, a brown cushioned chair, and sheer white curtains letting in soft natural light.
A bed styled with the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle shows cream bedding and dark brown accents. Pillowcases and a matching percale duvet cover rest atop, while a bedside table holds a vase next to a round table in view.
Two pillows from the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle are stacked on a wooden floor against a plain white wall, adding a simple, minimalistic touch to the room.
A close-up of a neatly made bed showcases the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle. The fitted sheet hugs the mattress, while the flat sheet and organic cotton layers drape casually over one corner.
A neatly made bed with Bed Threads' Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle and two pillows sits in a minimalist room, emphasizing the comfort and quality of this luxurious bedding set.
Two light toned pillows on a wooden stool against a white wall and floor—ideal companions for the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle.
Two Bed Threads Espresso Organic Cotton Pillowcases (set of two) are stacked on a simple wooden stool, set against a plain white wall and wooden floor.
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  • A cozy bedroom with a neatly made bed featuring the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, a floor lamp, a brown cushioned chair, and sheer white curtains letting in soft natural light.
  • A bed styled with the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle shows cream bedding and dark brown accents. Pillowcases and a matching percale duvet cover rest atop, while a bedside table holds a vase next to a round table in view.
  • Two pillows from the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle are stacked on a wooden floor against a plain white wall, adding a simple, minimalistic touch to the room.
  • A close-up of a neatly made bed showcases the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle. The fitted sheet hugs the mattress, while the flat sheet and organic cotton layers drape casually over one corner.
  • A neatly made bed with Bed Threads' Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle and two pillows sits in a minimalist room, emphasizing the comfort and quality of this luxurious bedding set.
  • Two light toned pillows on a wooden stool against a white wall and floor—ideal companions for the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle.
  • Two Bed Threads Espresso Organic Cotton Pillowcases (set of two) are stacked on a simple wooden stool, set against a plain white wall and wooden floor.
From £230.00 £184.00
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Cotton versus synthetic materials

Synthetic materials are those that are manufactured via artificial processes, rather than grown and harvested. Like natural materials, plenty of synthetic and semi-synthetic fabrics are used to make bedding.

Here’s how a few common options measure up to cotton:

  • Cotton versus nylon: Nylon is a popular synthetic material often found in fabric blends used in a range of bedding items. While strong and durable, nylon retains heat and moisture, unlike cotton, which is breathable and moisture-wicking. Nylon’s tendency to retain heat and moisture can disrupt sleep and contribute to an uncomfortable sleeping environment.
  • Cotton versus rayon: Rayon is a semi-synthetic fabric made from reconstituted plant material. It’s generally silky soft to the touch and comfortable to sleep in. However, rayon retains more moisture than cotton fabric and is generally more prone to damage and tears.
A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Apple & Moss Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle and pillows stands against a plain light wall. On the left, a small pink side table holds a glass and plant on the grey concrete floor.
A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Apple & Moss Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, with dark green sheets, light green pillows, and a matching comforter made from GOTS certified organic cotton. A pink bedside table with a small plant sits in the corner.
The Apple Organic Cotton Duvet Cover by Bed Threads, in light green, is neatly folded on a wooden floor against a plain white wall.
A close-up of a bed corner featuring Bed Threads’ Apple & Moss Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle with GOTS certified, smooth percale duvet cover draped elegantly over the edge against a plain, light background.
A neatly made bed features the Moss Organic Cotton Flat Sheet and two matching pillows by Bed Threads, centered against a plain white wall on dark wooden floors—ideal for anyone who values breathable organic bedding.
Two dark green pillows rest on a wooden stool, emphasizing the cozy charm of the Bed Threads Apple & Moss Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, with a plain white wall and dark wood floor as a backdrop.
Two light green percale weave pillows from the Moss, Apple & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle by Bed Threads are stacked on a wooden stool, ideal for lovers of organic cotton bedding.
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  • A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Apple & Moss Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle and pillows stands against a plain light wall. On the left, a small pink side table holds a glass and plant on the grey concrete floor.
  • A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Apple & Moss Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, with dark green sheets, light green pillows, and a matching comforter made from GOTS certified organic cotton. A pink bedside table with a small plant sits in the corner.
  • The Apple Organic Cotton Duvet Cover by Bed Threads, in light green, is neatly folded on a wooden floor against a plain white wall.
  • A close-up of a bed corner featuring Bed Threads’ Apple & Moss Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle with GOTS certified, smooth percale duvet cover draped elegantly over the edge against a plain, light background.
  • A neatly made bed features the Moss Organic Cotton Flat Sheet and two matching pillows by Bed Threads, centered against a plain white wall on dark wooden floors—ideal for anyone who values breathable organic bedding.
  • Two dark green pillows rest on a wooden stool, emphasizing the cozy charm of the Bed Threads Apple & Moss Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, with a plain white wall and dark wood floor as a backdrop.
  • Two light green percale weave pillows from the Moss, Apple & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle by Bed Threads are stacked on a wooden stool, ideal for lovers of organic cotton bedding.
From £230.00 £184.00
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Cotton versus polyester

Polyester is one of the most popular synthetic fabrics used in bed sheets and bedding. Its popularity is thanks in part to how cheap it is to make. Polyester fabric can also be highly durable, stain-resistant and moisture-repellant.

While polyester sheets are affordable, easy to look after and long-lasting, there are some qualities that make polyester bedding less comfortable to sleep in compared to cotton.

  • Insulation: While cotton bedding is often highly breathable, polyester fabrics tend to hold onto heat. This can easily lead to overheating, causing night sweats and disrupted sleep.
  • Pilling: Despite its durability, polyester fabrics tend to pill, especially with regular drying in the tumble dryer. This can lead to a scratchy texture over time, whereas high-quality cotton fabric can maintain its smoothness for much longer.
  • Moisture-repelling: Polyester fabrics can effectively repel moisture, making them resistant to stains and spills. However, this also means that polyester bedding tends to trap body moisture perspired during sleep, leading to discomfort, sweats and potentially even mildew growth.
Berry, Butterscotch & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle
Berry, Butterscotch & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle
The Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover by Bed Threads, in bright pink, is neatly folded on a wooden floor against a plain white wall.
A close-up of a neatly made bed showcases the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle. The fitted sheet hugs the mattress, while the flat sheet and organic cotton layers drape casually over one corner.
A neatly made bed with peach-colored sheets and two Bed Threads Butterscotch Organic Cotton King Pillowcases rests against a plain white wall on a dark wooden floor.
Berry, Butterscotch & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle
The Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover Set by Bed Threads, made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, adds vibrant color and comfort to any room with its bright pink hue—perfect for elevating your space.
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  • Berry, Butterscotch & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle
  • Berry, Butterscotch & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle
  • The Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover by Bed Threads, in bright pink, is neatly folded on a wooden floor against a plain white wall.
  • A close-up of a neatly made bed showcases the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle. The fitted sheet hugs the mattress, while the flat sheet and organic cotton layers drape casually over one corner.
  • A neatly made bed with peach-colored sheets and two Bed Threads Butterscotch Organic Cotton King Pillowcases rests against a plain white wall on a dark wooden floor.
  • Berry, Butterscotch & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle
  • The Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover Set by Bed Threads, made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, adds vibrant color and comfort to any room with its bright pink hue—perfect for elevating your space.
From £230.00 £184.00
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Cotton versus other natural fibres

There are plenty of natural fibres used to make bedding. Each has its own distinct qualities, so it’s important to differentiate between them if you’re in the market for bedding made from natural materials.

Here’s how some of the most popular natural materials compare to cotton bedding:

  • Cotton vs bamboo fabric: Bamboo is an increasingly popular fabric for bed sheets and bedding. It can be smooth to the touch, moisture-wicking and durable. However, cotton is generally more breathable than bamboo fabric and is better for temperature regulation. Cotton fabric can also be more durable and pill-resistant than bamboo, making it easier to wash and care for.
  • Cotton vs wool: Wool is an excellent insulating material widely used in a range of bedding items – sometimes even bed sheets! Compared to cotton, wool is generally more warming, but also more prone to damage, requiring careful washing to avoid shrinkage and tearing.
  • Cotton vs silk: Silk is an incredibly soft, luxurious fabric, making it a popular luxury bedding material. Silk also tends to be more insulating than cotton, trapping moisture and heat in warmer climates. What’s more, silk can also be extremely delicate and has specialised care requirements to keep it in shape.
A cozy bedroom with a sloped wooden ceiling, a double bed made up in the Bed Threads Moss, Apple & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, built-in wooden storage along the wall, and two modern lamps—one on a nightstand, one wall-mounted.
A cozy bed dressed in Bed Threads' Moss, Apple & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle sits by a wooden wall with a shelf holding a lamp, book, and mug. Warm lighting and organic cotton bedding create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
Two Moss, Apple & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundles by Bed Threads are neatly folded and stacked on a wooden floor against a plain white wall.
A close-up of Bed Threads’ Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, featuring a fitted sheet on the mattress with a flat sheet draped over the edge—creating a soft, minimalistic scene that highlights premium organic cotton.
A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Flat Sheet and two matching pillows, set against a white wall on a wooden floor, offering breathable GOTS certified comfort for a restful night's sleep.
Two light green percale weave pillows from the Moss, Apple & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle by Bed Threads are stacked on a wooden stool, ideal for lovers of organic cotton bedding.
Two dark green Moss Organic Cotton Duvet Pillowcases by Bed Threads, inspired by GOTS certified bedding, are stacked on a simple wooden stool against a plain white wall with a wooden floor visible.
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  • A cozy bedroom with a sloped wooden ceiling, a double bed made up in the Bed Threads Moss, Apple & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, built-in wooden storage along the wall, and two modern lamps—one on a nightstand, one wall-mounted.
  • A cozy bed dressed in Bed Threads' Moss, Apple & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle sits by a wooden wall with a shelf holding a lamp, book, and mug. Warm lighting and organic cotton bedding create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
  • Two Moss, Apple & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundles by Bed Threads are neatly folded and stacked on a wooden floor against a plain white wall.
  • A close-up of Bed Threads’ Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, featuring a fitted sheet on the mattress with a flat sheet draped over the edge—creating a soft, minimalistic scene that highlights premium organic cotton.
  • A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Flat Sheet and two matching pillows, set against a white wall on a wooden floor, offering breathable GOTS certified comfort for a restful night's sleep.
  • Two light green percale weave pillows from the Moss, Apple & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle by Bed Threads are stacked on a wooden stool, ideal for lovers of organic cotton bedding.
  • Two dark green Moss Organic Cotton Duvet Pillowcases by Bed Threads, inspired by GOTS certified bedding, are stacked on a simple wooden stool against a plain white wall with a wooden floor visible.
From £230.00 £184.00
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Health benefits of cotton bedding

When it comes to sleeping well, cotton bedding is one of the best options available.

In addition to being delightfully soft from the first use (and softening with every wash!), cotton pillowcases and sheets are also a gentle option for your skin, thanks to the healthy sleeping environment they help to maintain.

Here are some qualities of cotton bedding that can benefit your health:

  • Hypoallergenic: Cotton fabric naturally inhibits the growth of allergens like bacteria, mildew and dust mites. This helps you to rest better by preventing allergies, skin irritation and breakouts from forming while you sleep.
  • Breathable: Cotton provides excellent air circulation throughout the night in different climates. This helps to maintain the ideal body temperature range for sleep of around 20 degrees Celsius, leading to a more restful sleep every night.
  • Naturally cooling: Cotton fabric is naturally cooling thanks to its breathability and excellent moisture-sicking properties. This makes cotton a great choice for maintaining restful sleep in hot conditions, which can reduce sleep quality and disrupt sleep.
Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle
Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle
The Bed Threads Crisp White Organic Cotton Duvet Cover Set is neatly folded on a wooden floor against a plain white wall, creating a minimalistic and clean atmosphere.
A close-up of Bed Threads’ Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, featuring a fitted sheet on the mattress with a flat sheet draped over the edge—creating a soft, minimalistic scene that highlights premium organic cotton.
A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle and two pillows is set against a plain white wall on a dark wooden floor in a minimalistic, uncluttered room.
Two pillows from the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle are stacked on a small four-legged wooden stool, set against a plain white wall and dark wooden floor.
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  • Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle
  • Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle
  • The Bed Threads Crisp White Organic Cotton Duvet Cover Set is neatly folded on a wooden floor against a plain white wall, creating a minimalistic and clean atmosphere.
  • A close-up of Bed Threads’ Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle, featuring a fitted sheet on the mattress with a flat sheet draped over the edge—creating a soft, minimalistic scene that highlights premium organic cotton.
  • A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle and two pillows is set against a plain white wall on a dark wooden floor in a minimalistic, uncluttered room.
  • Two pillows from the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle are stacked on a small four-legged wooden stool, set against a plain white wall and dark wooden floor.
From £230.00 £184.00
Shop this bundle

Sustainability benefits

While cotton bedding can be a great choice for comfort and your wallet, it can also be a strong choice for the environment.

As a natural fibre, cotton is biodegradable and doesn’t shed microplastic fibres like synthetic fabrics do. Microplastic fibres come off synthetic materials with every wash and accumulate in rivers, waterways and oceans, harming plants, animals and ecosystems.

Cotton fabric, on the other hand, doesn’t contain any plastic materials and breaks down naturally when it’s time to retire.

If you’re looking to make the biggest positive impact on the environment, opt for GOTS-certified organic cotton. Organic cotton surpasses conventionally-grown cotton in terms of its impact on the environment, health benefits and the people engaged in the industry.

Organic cotton is also grown without toxic pesticides or synthetic fertilisers, which benefits soil health, aquatic ecosystems, as well as the people who farm, harvest and manufacture cotton textiles.

Organic cotton farming practices can even improve water retention in soil, reducing the amount of water needed to grow cotton crops.

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