Cotton Vs. Bamboo Sheets: Which Is Best For You?

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Among the best sheets, cotton sheets are the go-to choice for many, thanks to their signature softness and comfort. Cotton is also breathable, easy to care for, and suits just about any preference or budget. On the other hand, bamboo sheets are a relatively newcomer to the bedding scene that’s rapidly gaining traction. It brings a special blend of sustainability, softness, and cooling, moisture-wicking abilities, which has convinced many people to make the switch.

With so much talk about comfort, eco-friendliness, and performance, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. We’ll break down the key differences between cotton and bamboo sheets, comparing the feel, temperature regulation, durability, and more. We spoke to Martin Bide, a professor in the department of textiles at the University of Rhode Island, to find out exactly how these sheets differ. By the end of this article, you’ll have the know-how you need to make an informed decision on which sheet type best suits your needs and preferences.

What are cotton sheets

Cotton is made from the natural fibers harvested from the fluffy seed pods of the cotton plant. As one of the world’s most widely produced fabrics, cotton has been a textile staple for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to 3,000 BC.

With its natural breathability, comfort, and versatility, it’s easy to see why cotton is one of the most popular bedding choices. The cotton fibers promote good airflow, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, making it a reliable year-round option. People also love how easy cotton sheets are to care for since most cotton sheets can be machine-washed and dried with minimal fuss. In terms of longevity, cotton sheets are durable and can last for many years with proper maintenance. Lastly, its versatility allows for a wide range of options in terms of styles, weaves, and price points to suit different preferences and budgets.

Types of cotton sheets

• Egyptian cotton: This premium cotton originates from Egypt, where it’s known for its exceptional softness and durability. This is due to its long-staple fibers, which create a luxuriously soft feel that’s highly sought after despite the higher price tag.
• Pima cotton: First cultivated in the US, Pima cotton provides a similar softness and durability to Egyptian cotton but at a more affordable price — a great luxury option without breaking the bank.
• Upland cotton: Upland cotton is one of the most widely used cotton types worldwide. Though it’s less soft and durable than Egyptian or Pima cotton, it makes up for it with its affordable price tag.
• Organic cotton: Organic cotton is an eco-friendly alternative that is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. It offers the same softness and comfort as traditional cotton, with the added benefit of being more sustainable.

Cotton weaves

• Percale weave: Known for its crisp, matte finish, percale weave is highly breathable and perfect for all-weather use. However, it’s prone to wrinkling, which may require more frequent ironing or steaming.
• Sateen weave: Sateen has a tighter weave that creates a silky-smooth feel with a subtle sheen. It’s one of the most luxurious cotton fabrics and is often used for high-end bedding.
• Twill weave: Twill weave features a diagonal pattern that gives it a distinct textured appearance. It’s very durable and wrinkle-resistant, making it an excellent choice for bedding that needs to withstand frequent use.
• Jersey weave: Unlike other weaves, jersey is knitted rather than woven, resulting in a soft, stretchy fabric. It’s a popular choice for casual bedding and offers a cozy, relaxed feel.

Cotton pros and cons

What are bamboo sheets

Bamboo sheets are made from bamboo fibers, a fast-growing plant primarily found in Asia. The process begins by turning raw bamboo stalks into pulp, which is then transformed into soft, smooth fibers ready for weaving. The fabric that results from this process is known for its luxurious feel, often compared to the softness of silk or cashmere.

Beyond their silky texture, the best bamboo sheets are prized for their excellent temperature-regulating abilities, making them one of the best cooling sheets for hot sleepers or anyone who tends to sweat at night. They’re also naturally hypoallergenic, which is a huge bonus for people with sensitive skin or allergies. On top of all this, bamboo is a sustainable crop, requiring less water and no pesticides, making bamboo sheets a more eco-friendly option for those looking to make greener choices in their bedding. However, Bide mentioned that the process of turning bamboo into rayon (the fibers used in making sheets) might not be “clean” depending on which process was used (we’ll explain this in more detail below.)

Types of bamboo sheets

• Bamboo Viscose: Also known as rayon, bamboo viscose is made by turning bamboo fibers into a pulp using chemicals like sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfide. Because of this, it’s considered a semi-synthetic fabric.
• Lyocell: Considered to be the most sustainable option, lyocell is made in a closed-loop process using non-toxic chemicals to dissolve the pulp. The chemicals are then recycled, making the process more eco-friendly.
• Fine bamboo: This is made with high-quality bamboo fibers, resulting in a lighter and more delicate fabric. It’s often marketed as a luxury bedding option for its refined texture and luxurious feel.

Bamboo Weaves

• Percale weave: This type of weave has a one-over-one-under pattern that creates a crisp, light texture with a matte finish. It’s also breathable and airy, making it a good option for warmer months.
• Sateen weave: This is produced by weaving multiple threads over and under to create a smooth, silky texture with a glossy sheen. Though having a heavier drape, sateen sheets are often softer and silkier. Percale vs sateen sheets are similar, but sateen tends to feel more luxurious.
• Twill weave: It’s woven with a diagonal rib pattern, creating a thick fabric that feels more structured and textured. It’s known to be very durable and highly resistant to wear and tear.

Bamboo sheets pros and cons

Cotton vs bamboo: which is better

Choosing bed sheets is more than just picking the softer option — there’s a lot more to consider. Let’s discuss the key factors that set bamboo and cotton apart to help you decide which one best fits your needs.

Cotton vs bamboo FAQs

Does cotton or bamboo sleep cooler?

Bamboo sheets may feel cooler than cotton because of their exceptional moisture-wicking properties and breathability. The bamboo fibers do a great job of pulling away moisture from the body, which helps regulate your body temperature and keep you cool. Cotton is also breathable, but it doesn’t manage moisture as effectively as bamboo.

Is cotton or bamboo softer?

Bamboo tends to have a softer, silkier feel than cotton out of the box. Higher quality cotton sheets, like Egyptian or Pima, can also feel incredibly soft, but it depends on the weave and quality. According to Bide, you can probably expect bamboo to be softer.

Does cotton wrinkle more than bamboo?

Yes, cotton is more prone to wrinkling than bamboo because of the nature of its fibers. Cotton sheets may need ironing or steaming to keep them looking smooth. On the other hand, bamboo sheets are usually more resistant to wrinkling due to their naturally smooth fibers. “Who wants to iron sheets,” asks Bide – and he’s right, probably not many. So, if you’re looking for sheets that are low-maintenance, bamboo may be better.

Is cotton or bamboo more sustainable?

It depends. Bamboo is considered more sustainable than cotton since bamboo plants grow quickly with little need for water, pesticides, or fertilizers. However, some bamboo processing methods use toxic chemicals. On the other hand, conventional cotton farming can be water-intensive and often relies on pesticides and chemicals that can impact the environment. However, a new variety called organic cotton is touted as a sustainable alternative to traditional cotton.

The bottom line

If you want eco-friendly sheets that are naturally cool and silky soft, bamboo is your best bet. Their breathability is perfect for hot sleepers, and their hypoallergenic properties make them great for sensitive skin, though they do come with a higher price tag. Cotton sheets, on the other hand, offer no-fuss comfort and durability, with a wide range of styles and prices to fit any budget. Ultimately, your choice should come down to your preferences and needs. Consider feel, temperature regulation, durability, and maintenance to find the perfect sheets for you.

Our favorite cotton sheets

Our favorite bamboo sheets