Buying New Flannel Sheets for Your Bed

Posted by Donna Dillinger on February 6th, 2010 filed in Sheets and Blankets

by Donna Dillinger

Flannel sheets are the best choice to fight the winter chill. They are an inexpensive way to make your bed more welcoming and warm, and flannel sheets are the least expensive way to make your bed feel brand new. These sheets are online marginally more expensive than their lower quality cotton counterparts, while offering much more in terms of softness, comfort and durability. If this will be your first time purchasing flannel sheets, there are a few things that should be kept in mind to ensure that you are investing in sheets of the highest quality without spending too much.

One of the most important things to consider when buying new sheets is their ability to be washed. Most flannels sheet sets do well on a normal wash cycle, but it pays to make sure that this is the case before you purchase. Find a set of sheets that may be washed with your regular clothing and that is colorfast to prevent fading. In most cases, it is advisable to avoid washing flannel in detergents containing bleach, as they may be too harsh and cause premature wear. For those who prefer sheets in bold colors, be advised that brightly colored sheets are more likely to fade over time.

There are three types of fibers from which flannel sheets are generally made: cotton, wool or synthetic. Which fiber type you choose is really a matter of personal preference, but there are some general truths about each that should be considered before ultimately choosing. Synthetic fibers are often the least expensive option, but they are also generally thinner and less soft than others. Cotton remains popular, both for its ability to be washed as well as its reputation for retaining softness even after a lot of use. Before buying, always make sure that your cotton sheet is thick enough to seem durable. Some flannel sheet devotees like the feel of wool. While it is certainly the warmest choice, it can be more expensive and time consuming to maintain.

Durability is a big concern for most people when choosing which sheet set is right for them. One of the best ways to determine a sheet’s durability is to examine the thickness of the fabric. Looking at the thread count listed on the label can help guide your search, but there are other ways to determine thickness as well. Hold the sheet you are considering up to the light. If it is nearly transparent, it may be best to opt for a thicker sheet. If however it is difficult to make out shapes through the fabric, it is probably thick enough to last through many washings and uses.

With the increased popularity of flannel sheets, more and more stores have begun carry them as part of their regular stock. The biggest markdowns are usually available through online stores, but discounts can also be found locally. Seasonal white sales are a great source for lost cost sheets, and represent a great opportunity to stock up. Though flannel sheets do tend to cost a bit more than cotton, the difference in quality and comfort is more than worth the extra expense.

About the Author: