By Bed Threads Bedding 15.07.2025

Your Complete Guide to Cotton Bedding

Everything you need to know about cotton bedding, what to look for, and how to care for it.

When it comes to shopping for bedding, not all materials are created equal. And while we’re long-time proponents of linen bedding, we’re thrilled to be adding another fibre to our repertoire. Introducing: cotton.

But why cotton? How does it compare to linen? And what sets this material apart?

This comprehensive guide will tell you everything you need to know. From explaining the types of cotton sheets to instructing you on cotton storage, this guide is your one-stop-shop for all things cotton bedding.

Cotton vs linen

So you’re ready for some new bedding. Whether you’re looking for pillowcases, sheets or a full set, the first decision to make is which fabric you should choose.

While cotton and linen are both great options, the two materials differ significantly in some ways. While there isn’t a one-size-fits all ‘better’ option, one fibre may be more suited to your personal preferences and lifestyle.

Aesthetic

Cotton and linen bedding can both look chic, comfy and sophisticated – but there are some key differences that are visibly noticeable when it comes to the overall appearance of these two materials.

Linen

Linen is famously known for its luxuriously lived-in look. It is a visibly natural material, with more variation in terms of texture. In general, linen bedding is more loosely-woven than its cotton counterparts, which results in a softer, fluffier look in comparison.

Linen bedding might call to mind a beachside bungalow, or better complement rooms with decor that plays with textures and colours inspired by nature. Its overall look may be described as rustic, organic or warm.

Cotton

On the other hand, cotton may be what many consider a sleeker choice. Because cotton bedding is more tightly-woven, its appearance is smoother and more matte when compared with linen.

If you’re aiming for a five-star-hotel bedding look, cotton will give you a level of crispness that is sometimes difficult to achieve with linen bedding alone.

Given its sharp, fresh look, cotton bedding works best in rooms that veer more towards a modern style. The visual appeal of cotton bedding might be more suited to aesthetics that reflect polished, refined or minimalist design choices.

Feel

When cared for properly, both cotton and linen can be super-soft, but you will have a slightly different experience depending on which fabric you choose.

Linen

Linen is perhaps amongst the most luxurious of materials when it comes to sheets – but why? Famously, linen softens over time, meaning that the more you use your linen bedding, the better it becomes.

Thanks to its long fibres, linen can be washed time and time again without wearing out. And the more you wash it, the more buttery the feeling.

However, brand new linen does take some breaking in. To unlock linen’s signature softness, you’ll have to use and wash your sheets a few times before reaping the full benefits of linen’s luxe feel.

Cotton

While cotton is not soften in the same way that linen does, it has the benefit of being soft straight away. While linen bedding requires a bit of a break in-period to reach peak luxuriousness, cotton bedding is super smooth from the very first use.

Because cotton bedding is less textured than linen, some people prefer its cool-to-the-touch, crisp feel.

Care

When choosing between linen and cotton bedding, it’s important to consider what long term care will look like. While both cotton and linen are relatively easy to maintain, linen does require a bit more attention.

Linen

To help linen bedding last as long as possible, it’s recommended to wash it in cold water. Likewise, it’s generally recommended to air-dry if possible.

While it’s still a durable material, linen’s looser weave does make it slightly more prone to damage, especially in washing machines or tumble dryers which may twist and mis-shape its natural fibres.

Cotton

For some, cotton may be easier to care for. Unlike linen which should only be washed in cold or lukewarm water, cotton can also be washed in warm water – which may be more convenient depending on your machine’s settings.

Likewise, cotton can also be tumble dried, which can significantly speed up laundry day.

Different types of cotton sheets

When you first start looking into cotton bedding – and more specifically, cotton sheets – the many different options and types of cotton can be overwhelming. Never fear, knowing a little bit about the material can help you understand what to look for to make sure you’re getting high-quality sheets.

Types of cotton weaves

The thing that differentiates one sheet set from another is its construction and fabrication.

The ‘weave’ of any cotton material refers to the way that the fabric’s threads were woven together when the textile was being made. Weaving cotton in different ways yields different results in terms of look, feel, breathability and overall structure.

The most common types of cotton weaves for bedding include:

Percale: This is the weave Bed Threads uses for our cotton bedding. It results in a smooth feel and crisp, matte look and cool feel.
Sateen: This weave results in a thicker fabric and shinier fabric.
Flannel: Flannel is famous for being super soft and warm. However, not all flannel is made from cotton, with some denser flannel being woven from wool or other fibres.

How to identify high-quality cotton bedding

There are a few key signs of high-quality cotton bedding you should look out for.

First and foremost, it’s best to buy cotton bedding from a trusted retailer, who can prove the origins and certifications of the cotton used. One look at the product description should tell you where the cotton comes from and whether it has any certifications confirming that it is OEXO-TEX100-certified.

This certification indicates that your bedding has been tested to ensure that it will not have a negative impact on your health – which is important to consider, as you’ll be sleeping in your cotton bedding every night.

What does it mean to be GOTS certified

Like OEKO-TEX, GOTS is another certification method.

Short for ‘Global Organic Textile Standard’, GOTS ‘was developed by leading standard setters to define world-wide recognised requirements for organic textiles. From the harvesting of the raw materials, environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing to labelling, textiles certified to GOTS provide a credible assurance to the consumer.’

In short, a GOTS certification allows you to sleep soundly knowing that your cotton bedding has been produced following strict guidelines. This means that the plants that made the fibres for your sheets grew in a chemical-free environment, without pesticides, chemicals, and genetic modifications.

Beyond the cotton plants themselves, all GOTS-approved fabrics must include 70%+ organic fibres, zero harmful substances and promote sustainable practices and fair working conditions in their production.

Cotton bedding products to consider

Whether you need a subtle bedroom refresh or full-blown redesign, there are several types of cotton bedding items to consider.

Sheets and sets

The foundation of any great bed setup is the sheets, and there are a few ways to approach finding your dream sheet situation:

Sheet sets: Sheet sets are the easiest way to make a big impact, fast. Buying matching sheets in a set is a great way to create a cohesive look with minimal effort required.
Fitted sheets: If you’re not a fan of the top sheet, feel free to stick with only a fitted sheet. With a snug fit that hugs every corner, it’s easy to make your bed look perfect with a high-quality fitted sheet.
Flat sheet: The most versatile sheet, flat sheets can be used as a top sheet, or tucked around the mattress corners as a bottom sheet. If you want only the essentials, a flat sheet is the place to start.

Cotton bedding essentials

Bedding is about so much more than the sheets. If you’re looking to create a full, cohesive look, consider adding other essentials in the same or complementary colours. More cotton bedding items that will contribute to an aesthetic bedscape include:

Pillowcases: In Standard, King and Euro sizes for visual interest
Duvet covers: Pair your sheets with a matching duvet cover for a full look or streamline the process with a preset bedding bundle.

Benefits of cotton bedding

Beyond its look and feel, there are several benefits of cotton that make it a great choice for bedding material.

Temperature regulation

One of the biggest benefits of cotton bedding is its temperature-regulating properties. Because of the way that percale cotton is woven, it’s a very breathable and naturally-cooling material. This feature makes it perfect for all-seasons use and especially appealing to hot sleepers.

For sensitive skin

Organic cotton is one of the best bedding options for those with sensitive skin. As signified by GOTS certification, organic cotton bedding is produced without the use of harsh chemicals or pesticides.

The fabric’s soft smooth texture is also great for those prone to skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea which can be irritated by fabrics that are more textured.

Benefits of organic cotton

In addition to being a good choice for sensitive skin, there are several other benefits of organic cotton. According to the Soil Association, here are three ways that organic cotton wins out compared to its conventional counterpart:

Natural farming methods help restore soil, thus combating climate change.
Organic cotton creates healthier soil, which is more able to absorb water. Farming without chemicals also means less hazardous runoff into water sources – which can be a major problem with conventional cotton farming.
The hazard of pesticides is eliminated with cotton farming. Not only does this help protect farmers, but it also protects the environment and waterways.

Caring for cotton bedding

One of the biggest reasons to opt for organic cotton when shopping for bedding is the low level of maintenance required. Cotton bedding is easy to care for, making it a great option for those who want to simplify laundry day.

Our high-quality cotton is sourced from Turkey and crafted with a super-tight percale weave to help it last as long as possible. Percale cotton is known for its strength and durability, and when cared for properly can withstand frequent use and regular washing.

Stain removal

Treat stains as soon as you discover them to help your cotton percale stay clean. Don’t rub stains, but rather gently blot them.

Before washing, pre-treat the stain with stain remover or gentle detergent for 10-15 minutes.

While it may be tempting to reach for the bleach, don’t do it. Instead, once the stain has been pre-treated, wash your sheets as usual.

When treating a stain, it’s recommended to air dry instead of machine dry.

For more detailed instructions, click here.

Washing and drying

Washing

Pre-wash: We recommend pre-washing your new sheets before using them.
Machine washing: Machine wash with cold or warm water.
Hand washing: Hand wash with cold or warm water.
Detergent: Use a gentle detergent and avoid bleach, fabric softener and brighteners.

Drying

Machine dry: Tumble dry on low heat.
Line dry: Hang to air dry.

How to store cotton

Like linen, cotton bedding should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated cupboard, closet or drawer. The aim when storing bedding of any sort is to keep your bedding fresh in-between uses. These tips will help you store your bedding, so that it’s ready to go when you are. For more detailed advice, click here.

Only store completely-dry cotton bedding. Even if it’s slightly damp, this can lead to mildew and musty-smelling sheets.
Store bedding folded to keep it from becoming overly wrinkled.
Avoid plastic bins and bags – these can trap moisture in, leading to mildew.
Store cotton bedding in well-ventilated areas: closets, drawers and armoires are good options, as long as there is a bit of air-flow.