In some parts of the world, a second bed sheet is placed on top of the sheet that covers the mattress. This second sheet is referred to as a “top sheet.” When this top sheet is put in use, the sheet directly on the mattress is referred to as a “bottom sheet.” A sleeper lies between the two sheets. Blankets, comforters, and any additional bed covers are put above the second bed sheet.

When I shop for new sheets I always look for the ones with a thread count of at least 300. What the thread count determines is the comfort of the fabric. A good rule of thumb is that the higher the thread count number, the softer the sheets will be. How many of us at some time or another have slept on scratchy sheets or those that are so thin you can almost see through them. We spend a long time asleep during out lifetime so it’s really important to make our sleeping experience as pleasant as possible. That is what bed sheets are like.

Unfortunately, buying sheets is not quite as easy as it used to be or should be. You may go to a store wanting plain white cotton sheets but end up so confused because you have so many different types of cotton, that you may go home with the wrong one (in most cases) or end up buying something you don’t want. This is what bed in a bag sets are like.

Bed sheets have historically been white, but in modern times many different colors and patterns are available. The quality of bed sheets is often conveyed by the thread count. The thread count is the number of threads per square inch of bed sheet material. Usually, the higher the thread count, the softer the sheet is. Common materials used in making sheets are cotton, linen, blends of cotton / polyester, silk, wool, rayon, and others.

A winter just isn’t complete without warm flannel sheets. Most people exclusively use flannel sheets in the cold months, because they will become “sweaty” in hot ones. In addition, many manufacturers have begun to produce flannel comforters and blankets to match the patterns on the sheets. This is what sheets are like. Finally, a silk or satin pair of sheets is considered the ultimate in luxury. They are silky soft and will keep you from sweating in the summer. You can literally slide into bed and if you have a satin or silk pillow case, lay your head in pure luxury. The only downside to satin and silk sheets is that they tend to slide off of the bed if not fitted properly.