How to Find the Best Cooling Sheets

Waking up drenched in sweat on hot summer nights is the worst! When you’re a hot sleeper, finding the right cooling bed sheets can make all the difference. If you often find yourself tossing and turning, drenched in sweat, it might be time to invest in cooling sheets. 

In this guide, we'll explore what cooling bed sheets are, what to look for when shopping for the best cooling sheets and why your mattress choice also matters. We’ll help you find the best sheets to keep you cool and comfy, so you can enjoy a restful night’s sleep – whatever the weather.

Cooling bed sheets are designed to regulate your body temperature throughout the night, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable. These sheets are typically made from materials that promote breathability, moisture wicking and absorbency. Let’s break down exactly what that means.

One of the key characteristics of the best cooling sheets is their breathability. Breathable fabrics allow air to circulate, helping to dissipate heat and keep you cool. This is particularly important during the warmer months or if you live in a hot climate.

Moisture-wicking properties are essential for cooling bed sheets. These sheets draw moisture away from your skin and onto the surface of the fabric, where it can evaporate quickly. This helps to keep you dry and comfortable throughout the night.

Absorbent materials in cooling sheets are crucial for hot sleepers. These fabrics can absorb sweat and moisture, preventing the uncomfortable damp feeling that often disrupts sleep.

When looking for the best cooling sheets, several factors should be taken into account to ensure you make the right choice: fabric, thread count, weave and weight.

The type of fabric used in your sheets plays a significant role in their cooling properties. Natural fibers such as organic cotton and linen are excellent choices due to their breathability and moisture-wicking abilities. (Just remember, it needs to be GOTS certified organic in order to truly be organic!)

While a higher thread count is often associated with luxury, it doesn't necessarily mean better cooling. For cooling sheets, a thread count between 200 and 400 is ideal. This range provides a balance between softness, durability and breathability.

The weave of the fabric affects how it feels and performs. Percale and sateen are two common weaves. Percale is crisp and cool, making it a great choice for hot sleepers, while sateen is smoother and silkier but may not be as breathable.

The weight of your sheets plays a significant role in their cooling capabilities. Lightweight sheets are ideal for hot sleepers because they allow more air to circulate, promoting better breathability and helping to dissipate heat. Heavyweight sheets, on the other hand, tend to trap warmth and can make you feel overheated during the night.

When searching for the best cooling sheets, it's crucial to avoid fabrics that trap heat and moisture. 

Polyester and microfiber, while durable and affordable, lack breathability and can create a clammy sleeping environment. Fleece, flannel and high-thread-count sheets are designed to insulate and retain heat, making them poor choices for hot sleepers. Silk and satin, although luxurious, can trap heat and moisture against the skin. Similarly, rayon, especially in less breathable blends, can exacerbate overheating. 

Opting for more natural, breathable materials like organic cotton and linen can significantly improve your temperature regulation – and your overall sleep quality.

As the founders and leaders of the organic mattress movement, Naturepedic is known for prioritizing your well-being when it comes to your sleep space. But we also understand that comfort matters most! 

Staying cool while you sleep is a big part of sleeping comfy. Here are our top recommendations for the best cooling sheets.

Our GOTS certified organic cotton percale sheets are a fantastic choice for hot sleepers. Made from soft, long-staple organic cotton, one of the most breathable natural fibers on Earth, our percale sheets are woven in a tight yet balanced weave that leaves plenty of room for airflow and creates a crisp, matte finish that feels as fresh as it does cozy (like sleeping in a five star hotel). You’ll love the 300 thread count, too – it’s the perfect balance of breathability and softness. Learn more.

Organic linen sheets are another excellent option for hot sleepers. Ours are GOTS certified, as always – and they’re designed for year-round comfort. Linen’s hollow fibers allow for easy air and water circulation to provide exceptional moisture-wicking and breathability. This keeps you cool and dry in summer by drawing moisture from the body and quickly drying. With a natural insulating effect that provides weighted warmth during the colder months, linen ensures cool and cozy comfort in any season. Learn more.

Beyond bedding, there are additional strategies you can implement to stay cool and comfortable throughout the night. Here are four more tips for hot sleepers:

• Use a cooling mattress topper: A wool mattress topper or alpaca mattress topper can add a layer of breathability and moisture wicking to your sleep setup.
• Keep your bedroom cool: Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable bedroom temperature – 65-68° F is ideal!
  Opt for lightweight bedding: Beyond your sheets, choose lightweight blankets and comforters to prevent overheating. Linen, muslin and percale are great options!
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help regulate your body temperature.
• Take a cool shower before bed: A cool shower can lower your body temperature, making it easier to fall asleep.

While cooling sheets can significantly improve your sleep, your mattress also plays a crucial role. Memory foam mattresses often trap heat due to their dense structure, restricting airflow and causing you to overheat. This can lead to a sweaty and uncomfortable sleeping environment. 

To mitigate this, opt for cooling organic mattresses made from more natural materials like GOTS approved latex, GOTS certified cotton and GOTS certified wool, which naturally breathe, wick away moisture and promote airflow, ensuring a cooler, more comfortable sleep – naturally!