What Are Microfiber Sheets? Are Microfiber Bed Sheets Breathable?

Microfibers can be found in many household items such as clothing, carpets, and upholstery fabrics.

They are also used in making various different products like cleaning cloths, hairbrushes, pet toys, as well as bed sheets.

Microfiber bed sheets are a great option for those who want to be comfortable and have a good night’s sleep but don’t want the hassle of laundering their regular cotton sheets.

Microfiber bed sheets are a great choice for those who want to add comfort and style to their bedroom without the need of spending big money on new bedding.

The microfiber material is extremely soft and smooth, which makes it ideal for people with sensitive skin or allergies.

We take a look at microfiber sheets and their advantages over cotton and bamboo. We also answer your questions on microfiber bedding.

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What Are Microfiber Bed Sheets?

Microfiber bed sheets can be made from any material, such as cotton, nylon, or polyester.

Microfiber doesn’t refer to the specific material used for the bed sheet but the weaving technique which is used to weave thin threads.

The thickness of microfiber fabric depends upon the type of fiber being used.

For example, if the manufacturer uses 100% cotton, then your bed sheet will be very thick compared to other natural materials or synthetic fibers.

Microfiber sheets are soft and breathable. They allow air to flow through while at the same time keeping you warm at night.

Microfiber is very fine and lightweight so this bed linen won’t feel rough against your skin when you sleep. They also absorb water easily so it will help keep you dry even on a hot summer night.

Another benefit of using these microfiber sheets is that they can be machine washed and dried easily, which makes them easier to clean than regular cotton sheets.

Microfiber bed sheets are hypoallergenic, anti-bacterial, anti-static, stain-resistant, wrinkle-free, and durable.

The Feel And Softness Of Microfiber Sheets

Microfiber bed linens are extremely soft and comfortable. When you touch them, it feels like you are touching silk.

This is because microfiber is not only softer than cotton but it is also more breathable. The thin fabric allows moisture to move away from the body quickly and keeps you cool throughout the night.

However, the softness of microfiber sheets does vary depending on the type of material used for the sheets and the item’s thread count.

You will instantly notice microfiber sheets that are of low quality. They’ll feel threadbare, coarse, and stiff.

Good quality bed sheets made with microfiber will have a higher thread count, and they’ll feel almost like satin.

If you have never had microfiber bed sheets before, it’s best to try one first and you’ll know what kind of experience you’re going to get with this type of bed linen.

Some people do not like the feel of microfiber bed sheets because they believe this soft sheet doesn’t provide enough warmth.

However, others think that they are comfortable and easy to use.

Choosing Good Quality Microfiber Sheets

Whether you pick a flat sheet or a fitted microfiber sheet, you need to ensure that the quality of the sheet is right.

Particularly for sweaty sleepers and everyone with sensitive skin will feel the difference between a good and bad microfiber sheet. 

When choosing a high-quality microfiber bed sheet, there are a few things to look out for.

Thread Count

The thread count of a microfiber sheet refers to how many horizontal and vertical threads there are in the sheet.

The tighter these threads sit and the more there are, the higher the thread count.

A higher thread count indicates good quality as the threads cannot easily be damaged, and the fabric will feel denser.

You should look out for sheets with a thread count between 400 and 800.

Thread Density

The thread density of the bedsheet is closely linked to the thread count. The thread density is usually shown on the product packaging in GSM.

You should look for sheets with a high thread density because this means they are stronger and will last for longer.

Fabric Type

The third factor to look out for when buying microfiber sheets is the type of fabric. Different fabrics have different properties.

Natural fibers, such as bamboo and cotton, can feel slightly heavier but they absorb water and liquids well.

This is ideal for hot sleepers as natural fibers allow the sheet to breathe better.

On the other hand, synthetic fibers, such as polyester, are very lightweight and don’t hold any moisture at all.

They are great for those who want a lighter-weight bedsheet.

Pilling

Sheets pill when they rub against other fabrics, such as your pajama.

You need to make sure that your microfiber sheet is pilling as little as possible as this can impact the lifetime of the product.

Washing

Frequent washing can impact how long your sheet is going to last. If you need to wash your sheet on a hot cycle, then this can damage the fibers, causing rips and tears.

It is recommended to only wash your sheet once every 6 months. This way, you can prolong its life.

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Are Microfiber Bed Sheets Breathable And Cool?

Microfiber is known for being very moisture-wicking, which makes it perfect for all hot sleepers. The special weaving technique allows air to circulate through the sheet, keeping you dry while you sleep.

In addition, it tends to dry faster and evaporate moisture, making it ideal for humid climates.

Because of its ability to wick moisture away from the body, you won’t wake up feeling damp and clammy.

On the flip side, some people don’t like the fact that microfiber feels so smooth at night.

It also tends to be slippery, so it’s best to tuck the sheet in properly or use a fitted microfiber sheet.

Types Of Microfiber Bed Sheets

There are different types of microfiber bed sheets. They can be either flat or fitted sheets which come in a range of different materials.

Flat Microfiber Sheets

These sheets come in various sizes and shapes, including twin, full, queen, king, and California King.

They are made using a single layer of microfiber material and are available in a variety of colors.

Fitted Microfiber Sheets

They are similar to flat sheets except they are designed to fit snugly around the corners of your mattress.

They are available in two main styles: box pleated and gathered.

Box pleated fitted sheets are generally thicker than their gathered counterparts.

Gathered fitted sheets are thinner than box pleated sheets. This allows them to lie closer to the corner of the mattress without bunching up.

A Guide To Cotton, Bamboo And Microfiber Sheets

Cotton is one of the most popular materials used to make bedding products. It comes in many different forms, including wovens fabrics, linens, and towels.

While it is great for absorbing sweat and moisture, it does not breathe well.

In comparison, bamboo is an excellent choice if you want a breathable sheet. It absorbs sweat and moisture quickly and dries fast.

Microfiber is the latest innovation in bedding. It combines the benefits of both cotton and silk, making it extremely soft and comfortable.

We take a look at how these three fibers for bed sheets compare to each other, and what’s best.

Breathability

Breathability refers to the ability of a fabric to allow air to pass through it.

When choosing a bedsheet, you should consider whether it will allow enough airflow to keep you cool during the summer months, and warm in the cold winter months.

As a natural material, cotton has a porous structure which allows air to flow better. This means that it keeps you cooler overnight.

Bamboo isn’t quite as breathable as cotton. However, its fibers have air gaps which allow for better ventilation.

In comparison, microfiber bed sheets have a dense weave and are not breathable. This keeps the heat under the sheet meaning microfiber sheets keep you warm.

If you live in warmer climates, then you’ll need a sheet that breathes well.

This means that it needs to be able to absorb sweat and moisture quickly and let it escape.

However, this doesn’t mean that you need to go for a 100% cotton sheet. A blend of cotton and other fiber such as bamboo or microfiber is perfect.

The combination of these fibers makes the sheet more breathable while still keeping the feel of cotton.

Temperature Control

Temperature control refers to the ability of the sheet to regulate body temperature.

You may find that when sleeping on a cotton sheet, you get too cold. In contrast, a microfiber sheet might be too hot.

To combat this problem, you could try adding a blanket underneath the sheet. This will help to trap any excess heat.

Another option would be to add some additional layers of clothing.

If you’re worried about getting cold, you could opt for a sheet with a higher thread count. These sheets are usually made from a heavier weight yarn which helps to insulate your skin.

These types of sheets can also be found in quilted versions. They come with a layer of insulation sewn into the top of the sheet.

It’s important to note that there is no single right answer here. The ideal solution depends on your personal preference.

Cotton combines breathability and moisture-wicking properties reasonably well. However, it does stay damp for longer if it gets wet, so this isn’t great for temperature control.

In comparison, microfiber sheets aren’t breathable but they wick moisture well. Bamboo is the best when it comes to controlling the body temperature at night.

It absorbs sweat very easily and lets it evaporate quickly. This means that you won’t wake up feeling clammy.

Moisture Control

Moisture control in a bed sheet is the ability to prevent the build-up of sweat.

Sweat tends to collect between the sheets and mattress. If you don’t want to wake up with a sweaty back, then you need to choose a sheet that prevents this from happening.

Microfiber bed sheets work well at absorbing sweat but they don’t let it dry quickly.

Cotton sheets tend to soak up sweat and leave it behind. This means that you end up with a sticky mess rather than a clean sheet.

Bamboo is the best material when it comes to moisture management. It absorbs sweat and lets it evaporate rapidly.

This means that you won’t need to worry about waking up with a soggy back.

When choosing a bedsheet, take into consideration how much time you spend lying down each night.

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Pilling Resistance

Pilling resistance is the ability of a sheet to resist pilling. Pilling occurs when threads become tangled together.

This causes them to bunch up and form small balls. Over time, these balls start to accumulate on the surface of the sheet.

This results in an unsightly lumpy appearance. To avoid this, look for a sheet with high thread counts.

Long wear and the continued friction between the sheet and your pajamas can mean that your sheet is constantly under strain.

This creates the little tangled pilling threads.

When it comes to pilling resistance, microfiber is the best as it doesn’t usually pill at all. 

However, this does depend on the thread count, as lower thread counts do tend to have looser fibers which can catch easily on other fabrics, so they pill quicker.

Cotton sheets will eventually pill after a while but if you look for a cotton sheet with a high thread count, then this is likely to happen only after many years.

In comparison, bamboo sheets tend to pill only a little bit.

Cost

Cotton sheets are often cheaper than microfiber sheets. However, if you buy a cheap cotton sheet, you could end up spending more money on replacing them over time.

If you want to save some money, then you should consider buying microfiber sheets instead.

They cost more initially but they last longer. You’ll also get better value for money because they’re cheaper to replace.

In comparison, bamboo sheets are expensive due to them being relatively new on the bedding market. This makes them a little harder to find.

However, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to find one. They’re becoming increasingly more popular.

Durability

Durability is another factor to consider when buying a bedsheet. A good quality sheet will last for years without breaking or tearing.

The most common way to test durability is by looking at the stitching and thread count. You’ll see whether it has been done using strong threads or cheap ones.

Weak stitches make the sheet more likely to tear. Also consider thread count, as higher thread counts do usually have better quality and this means your sheet is going to last longer.

When it comes to durability, synthetic fibers, such as microfiber, are the one that lasts longest. This fabric is likely not to rip or fade so easily.

It also washes well which means that it can withstand many years of use.

In comparison, the natural fibers will wear out after many washes. Cotton and bamboo sheets soften over time and they can lose their shape slightly. 

Stain Resistance

If you’re worried about stains, then you should go for a sheet that’s stain resistant. These are sheets that are designed to be easy to wash and keep clean. 

They may even have special features like antimicrobial properties. This helps prevent bacteria from growing on the sheet.

Unfortunately, cotton soaks up stains very quickly and it’s difficult to remove them. However, bamboo and microfiber are both stain-resistant.

You want to choose a sheet that is machine washable. This makes cleaning easier and saves you money.

For example, if you buy a sheet that needs to be hand-washed, you’ll end up paying for the washing machine twice.

Caring For Cotton Vs Bamboo Vs Microfiber Sheets

While there are some differences between each type of sheet, they’re mostly similar. They all require care and maintenance.

All three types of sheets need regular laundering to maintain their freshness.

Microfibers are the easiest to launder. They don’t absorb much water and they dry fast. So, you can just throw them into the washing machine and let them spin.

Bamboo sheets are a little harder to get rid of stains than microfiber sheets.

They’re naturally hydrophobic which means that they repel moisture. But, this doesn’t mean that they won’t soak up liquids.

So, you’ll need to treat them carefully. You might need to put them in the dryer first before putting them in the washing machine.

This helps to get rid of any excess moisture.

Cotton sheets are the hardest to care for because they attract dust and dirt. They also take a long time to dry.

So, you need to give them extra attention during the drying process.

Which Fiber Is Best For You?

Choosing between cotton, bamboo, and microfiber sheets is all down to personal preference.

Each type of fiber offers something unique. For example, cotton is very durable but it’s less warming than bamboo.

On the other hand, microfiber sheets are warm but not breathable. Bamboo sheets offer the best of both worlds. They’re highly breathable and durable.

They also don’t wrinkle easily so they make great travel sheets.

So, which one is the best? That depends on what you’re looking for.

If you’re after a long-lasting sheet that’s going to last you years, then you should choose a high-quality microfiber sheet.

If you want a sheet that’s breathable and comfortable, then a blended fabric like bamboo or cotton/microfiber is probably the way to go.

If you’re planning to use your sheet every day, then you should invest in a quality cotton sheet. It will hold up much longer than a cheaper microfiber sheet.

How To Care For Your Microfiber Sheets

Microfiber sheets are moisture-wicking and durable, making them ideal for bedding. However, they need regular care to maintain their freshness, softness, and longevity.

We put together some tips on how to care for your microfiber sheets to ensure your new sheets stay clean and look brand new for years to come:

Machine Wash

Wash your microfiber sheets in cold water with mild detergent. Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub any dirt off the surface of the sheet.

Use a gentle cycle when washing your sheets. The gentler the cycle, the softer your sheets will be.

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Air Drying

When drying your sheets, use low heat and hang them outside. If possible, place them on a clothesline rather than using a dryer.

This will protect the delicate fibers of your sheets.

Avoid Ironing

Don’t iron your sheets! Ironing damages the fibers of your sheets and causes them to become stiff and brittle.

Store In A Cool Place

Your microfiber sheets will last longer if stored away from direct sunlight. Store them in a cool room at around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The warmer the temperature, the shorter the lifespan of your sheets.

Dust and dirt can cause your sheets to wear out faster. So, try to wash your sheets as infrequently as possible. To keep your sheets dry, store them in a plastic bag.

This will prevent them from getting wet and damp. You can also buy waterproof covers for your sheets. These are useful if you live somewhere where there’s lots of rain.

Check For Wear And Tear

It’s important to regularly check your microfiber sheets for signs of wear and tear. Look for stains, holes, and tears.

 A dirty sheet will quickly lose its softness and feel scratchy against your skin. A worn-out sheet won’t be able to absorb your body heat properly. And this could lead to overheating.

That means you’ll have to change your sheets more often. Which isn’t always convenient. But it’s better to replace your sheets sooner rather than later.

Final Thoughts

Microfiber bed sheets are popular because of their comfort and durability. But choosing between different types of microfiber bed sheets can be confusing.

We’ve tried to make things easier by comparing the most common options. We hope we’ve helped you find the right microfiber bed sheet for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Get your last-minute sheet-related questions answered below! 

Can I Wash My Microfiber Bed Sheet?

Yes, you can wash your microfiber bed sheet just like any other bedding item. Just follow the washing instructions on the label.

Do I Need To Dry My Microfiber Bed Sheet After Washing?

Yes, you should air-dry your microfiber bed sheet after washing. This will help preserve the integrity of the fibers.

It will prevent any bacteria growth and mold formation that may occur if left sitting in water.

Are Microfiber Sheets Hot?

This depends on your duvet. Microfiber sheets retain the body heat well but as these sheets also wick moisture well, they don’t cause your body to overheat.

If you’re looking for something extra-warm, then opt for a down-filled duvet instead.

How Long Does It Take To Dry My Microfiber Bed Sheet?

Microfiber bed sheets take about 24 hours to completely dry. They can be hung up or placed on a radiator to speed up the process.

Are Microfiber Bed Sheets Hypoallergenic?

Yes, microfiber bed sheets are hypoallergenic. They don’t contain any chemicals or dyes which may irritate sensitive skin.

However, it’s best to check the label before you buy.

Are Microfiber Sheets Good Or Bad?

Microfiber is a great material for making bedsheets. It’s durable, comfortable, and long-lasting.

If you’re looking for something that looks good, feels nice, and lasts, then microfiber bed sheets might be what you want.

What Is Brushed Microfiber?

Brushed microfiber is an alternative to brushed cotton sheets. It is softer and more durable than standard cotton sheets.

It features a soft, plush surface that is easy to clean and it is also hypoallergenic, meaning it doesn’t irritate sensitive skin.

Does A Microfiber Bed Sheet Last Long?

As with any bedding item, the lifespan of a microfiber bed sheet depends on several factors.

Firstly, the thread count determines how long the sheet lasts. A sheet with a lower thread count will wear faster than one with a higher thread count.

Secondly, the type of fabric used is important. Natural fiber sheets tend to wear faster than synthetic ones.

Lastly, the care and maintenance of the sheet itself play a role. If you wash it frequently, it will tend to wear quicker.