Are your sheets a dream come true? Or do you drift off fretfully every night, fantasizing about some fabulous sheets you once experienced at a hotel or a friend’s house? Most of us fall somewhere between those two, but choosing the right sheets can still be a challenge. Here are a few pointers to help you find your perfect set.

• Understand thread count. Thread count refers to the number of threads woven into a square inch of fabric, so high thread count is often superior. However, that’s not always the case. While it would make sense that a high thread count is softer than a lower one, it really depends on the fabric. If the fibers used in the fabric are softer by nature, the sheets will feel softer than a high thread count set made from a lower-quality fabric. As a rule of thumb, sheets with a thread count in the 300-400 range are probably your best bet.
• Figure out your favorite fabric. Cotton is the most popular material for sheets, but it’s not the only option. Bamboo blends are gaining popularity, and are worth considering because they’re sustainable, naturally antimicrobial, and moisture-wicking. Microfiber sheets are soft and less likely to pill than traditional polyester, but microfiber isn’t very breathable. Cotton jersey is very breathable and also reasonably priced, so that’s an option if you like the feel of a t-shirt. Neither microfiber nor jersey is crisp and cool like cotton, though. If you prefer cotton, be aware that there are different types. The highest quality cotton is 100 percent Egyptian cotton, and the second-best is 100 percent Pima cotton. If neither of those are specified, and the label simply says “100 percent cotton”, it’s probably American upland cotton, which is rougher and less expensive.
• Know the lingo. Percale, sateen, and combed cotton may be unfamiliar terms, but they’re easy enough to decode. Sateen has a soft feel and slight sheen, and it’s durable. Percale is the crisp, plain weave cotton you’re probably used to, and combed cotton has been combed so that only long fibers remain, so it’s strong and soft.
• Don’t splurge on your spares. If your sheet budget is limited, save the expensive sheets for the master bedroom and go with an easy-care cotton polyester blend for kids' rooms and guest rooms. This type of sheet is soft, cozy, and durable.

If you need a new mattress for those gorgeous new sheets, you owe it to yourself to check out Mancini’s Sleepworld. Since 1969, the Mancini family has sold brand name mattresses and furniture at fair prices while treating every customer with respect. Now more than ever, Mancini’s Sleepworld is prioritizing the safety and comfort of their customers. You can experience their commitment to a great mattress buying experience by visiting one of their 33 locations across the greater Bay Area. All locations are open for walk-ins or by appointment. To learn more, contact Mancini's here or call 800-647-5337.