As the leaves begin to change colors and the cooler weather starts to creep in, it’s time to swap out light summer fabrics for warmer winter materials. While you may pull out chunky sweaters and replace a linen throw with a wool blanket, it’s also important to change the sheets on your bed to help you stay warm during the colder months. “Flannel is a lovely fabric that is pleasing to the touch and cozy to cuddle with at night,” says Caron Woolsey, founder and principal designer at CW Interiors. “[Flannel sheets] will keep you warmer than their cotton cousins.” To find the best flannel sheets, we put 30 different sheet sets into the test in our lab. Using a predetermined methodology, our testers evaluated various flannel sheets based on quality, texture, breathability, durability, and warmth. The labels were concealed from our testers, so they didn’t know which brands they were assessing. Overall, the Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Sheets took the top spot. The sheets’ comfortable weight, luxury quality, softness, and warmth earned them a perfect score in our testing lab. Here are the best flannel sheets. Keep in Mind: They are only available in solid, neutral colors. The testers noted that the sheets had a plush feeling on both sides and were a balanced thickness—not too thick, and not too thin. Additionally, even though the weave was tight, testers agreed that the material was still breathable. The sheets are machine washable in a gentle cycle. After our testers washed them, they noted that the sheets maintained their softness and thickness and didn’t produce any snags or loose threads in the wash. No pilling was reported either. As far as warmth, testers determined that the flannel sheets were a happy medium—their body temperature was comfortable without getting too hot or too cold. You can purchase a set of two pillowcases or a fitted sheet separately instead of in a set if you want to feel the material before committing to a whole set. However, you can’t purchase the flat sheet separately. Price at time of publish: From $48 Material: 100% organic cotton | Size: Twin, full, queen, king, California king | Care: Machine wash in cold water on a delicate cycle. Line dry or tumble dry on low. Keep in Mind: After washing, the sheets did shrink slightly, and the color wasn’t as vibrant. Upon first glance, the testers noted that the flannel sheets felt soft and cozy and had no noticeable loose threads or pills. Putting the sheets on the bed was an easy process, and the sheets felt high-quality to the testers. After lying under the sheets, testers agreed that the flannel sheets certainly kept them warm and worried that this set may be too hot for someone who gets night sweats. However, the sheets were comfortable and snug, and felt to be of superb quality. Since the sheets are machine washable, they are simple to launder. But after washing, our testers noticed the sheets shrunk slightly and the color wasn’t quite as bright. Despite this, the sheets still felt soft, and no loose threads or pilling were reported. Overall, our tester appreciated the quality of the sheets. Price at time of publish: $45 Material: 100% cotton | Size: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Care: Machine washable Keep in Mind: The sheets are slightly oversized initially but will shrink after the first few washes. After lying on these sheets, testers gave them the highest rating for their quality, texture, breathability, and warmth. The first impression of the sheets was strong—testers observed that the sheets had no defects or flaws and fit onto the bed seamlessly. Upon touching the sheets, testers were surprised by how luxurious the fabric felt. They also pointed out that the fitted sheet was roomier than standard fitted sheets. After lying under the sheets for five minutes, the testers felt warm and cozy but not too hot. They noted that every part of the sheets felt soft and high-quality. After washing the sheets, they did shrink slightly, but the sustainable company is transparent about the fact that it doesn’t use chemical sizing agents on its products, so the sheets aren’t pre-shrunk. Price at time of publish: From $248 Material: 100% organic cotton | Size: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king | Care: Wash on a gentle cycle in cold water. Tumble dry on medium heat. Keep in Mind: Expect the sheets to shrink and have some slight pilling. This flannel sheet set received high marks for its quality and breathability as well as a perfect rating for its warmth. After initially inspecting the sheets, the testers noted that the fabric texture and weight felt balanced and appropriate. They also remarked that the texture had a lovely plushness and felt soft and warm. The testers shared that they were able to see a bit of light coming through the sheets, but they still felt warm after lying under the sheets for five minutes. They were pleased that the fabric wasn’t heavy or stiff, and it was breathable while still keeping their body temperature comfortable. These sheets claim to be resistant to shrinking, pilling, and fading, but after putting the sheets through the wash, the sheets did shrink. Despite being slightly more snug than they were initially, the sheets still fit the mattress. The testers also noticed that there was some slight pilling all over the sheets. The sheets seemed durable, however, and there were no loose threads or tears. Price at time of publish: From $109 Material: 100% cotton | Size: Twin, full, queen, king, California king | Care: Machine washable Keep in Mind: They aren’t available in a set, so you have to purchase each item individually. After initially inspecting the flannel sheets, testers were pleased with how well made the sheets were. They did report that the fitted sheet seemed baggy, but there were no visible defects in the stitching or print. These soft sheets received a perfect rating for their texture, with the testers noting that it seemed like both sides of the sheets had subtle napping. The sheets also boasted a perfect score for their warmth. One tester reported they accidentally stayed under these sheets for longer than five minutes because they were so relaxed and cozy and were disappointed when they had to leave the warm comfort of the sheets. The sheets held up well after being washed and had no loose threads or pilling. However, the fitted sheet did shrink, which may be why it was a bit baggy to begin with. Price at time of publish: From $45 Material: 100% cotton | Size: Twin, full, queen, king, California king | Care: Machine wash in warm water. Tumble dry on low heat. Keep in Mind: After we washed these sheets, there was some pilling and a loose thread. While making the bed, a tester appreciated the versatility of the elastic in the fitted sheet—it was flexible enough to make the bed with ease but provided a sturdiness that made the fitted sheet feel secure and intact. These sheets earned a perfect score in the texture category, with one tester describing these sheets as “buttery smooth.” The sheets also scored high for breathability and warmth, and testers agreed that they had a balanced thickness and weight to keep them toasty without leaving them feeling cold or drafty. Like most of the cotton sheets on our list, these sheets did shrink after washing, and there was a loose thread on a pillowcase. Though the color didn’t fade, there was slight pilling in some areas. But overall, because of the buttery feel of the fabric, these sheets earned high scores from our testers. Price at time of publish: From $42 Material: 100% cotton | Size: Twin, full, queen, king | Care: Machine wash in warm water on a gentle cycle. Hang to dry or tumble dry on low. Keep in Mind: The sheets did shrink after washing and drying. With a perfect score for quality, testers said these sheets were well-made with a medium weight and no pilling. The texture of the sheets was soft, comfortable, and breathable. The sheets were lightweight enough to where light could be seen through the fabric but heavy enough to keep in the warmth. After washing the sheets, they did shrink slightly but still fit the bed well. There was no pilling after washing. Price at time of publish: From $50 Material: 100% cotton | Size: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Care: Machine washable Keep in Mind: The set is not available in a twin or twin XL size. Testers immediately noted the quality of the fitted sheet, which featured wide elastic that secured easily on the corners of the mattress. The top sheet was spacious, and the pillowcases effortlessly slipped onto the pillows. Napping was noticed on one side of the sheet, and testers agreed that it felt soft to the touch. There were no loose threads or pills on the new sheets. After lying under the sheets for five minutes, one tester noted that the sheets were lighter than flannel sheets they had used before, but they were still warm and breathable. They also stated that they aren’t a fan of flannel sheets but would buy these because of their lightness and breathability. After washing, the sheets did shrink and had some light pilling. However, there were no loose threads, and the sheets held up well. Because these sheets were light and airy while still providing a plush warmth, these are the best flannel sheets for those who are looking for a lighter option. Price at time of publish: From $48 Material: 100% cotton | Size: Full, queen, king, California king | Care: Machine wash in cold water, tumble dry on low
Our Testing Process
To find the best flannel sheets, our testing team evaluated over 30 different flannel sheets. Each product’s label was covered during the testing process, so testers weren’t aware of the brand or price of the sheets they were evaluating. Each sheet set had at least two different testers: one who evaluated the sheets brand new, and one who evaluated the sheets after being washed. Using a pre-determined methodology, our testers assessed each flannel sheet set based on five factors: quality, texture, breathability, durability, and warmth. The testers first unfolded the sheets, feeling the texture and making note of the quality. They specifically looked for any loose threads, pilling, or damage. The testers then measured the sheets and recorded their data. They evaluated the texture and quality of the sheets further by making a bed with the sheets in our lab. To test the breathability and warmth of the flannel sheets, testers lay under the sheets for five minutes. While lying under the sheets, they evaluated the warmth, comfort, airflow, and breathability. After assessing the sheets for these factors, a different tester washed and dried the sheets according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The sheets were then measured once again and compared with the initial measurements to see wherther they shrank. The testers then re-made the bed to determine whether any shrinkage made it difficult to make the bed. Additionally, any loose threads, pilling, or damage that occurred during the laundry process were noted.
What to Know About Flannel Sheets Before Shopping
Material
There are various kinds of flannel blends, but most flannel sheets are made of cotton. The most important part of the flannel-making process is “napping” the fabric. This process uses a tool to brush the fabric to raise the fine fibers, which results in that fuzzy texture that helps keep us warm and toasty. A quality flannel sheet will feature napping on both sides.
Size
Most flannel sheet sets are offered in standard sizes—twin, full, queen, and king. However, some are available in more specialty sizes, like twin XL and California king, too. Make sure to order the corresponding sheet size to match your bed size. Keep in mind that some flannel sheet sets appear loose and slightly oversized at first, but they may shrink after laundering.
Care
Unlike other fabrics designed to keep you warm (like wool), flannel sheets are relatively simple to care for. All 30 of the flannel sheet sets we tested were machine-washable, with some recommending cold water, and others recommending warm water. Read the laundry instructions that come with your specific set to ensure that you’re cleaning your sheets correctly so they’ll last for years to come.
Other Flannel Sheets We Tested
Peacock Alley Egyptian Cotton Flannel Sheet Set
Our testers gave the Peacock Alley Egyptian Cotton Flannel Sheet Set perfect scores for durability and warmth. Testers liked that these sheets were soft, heavy, and warm. However, they did note these sheets might be too heavy for sleepers who need more breathability. Although the sheets did shrink a bit, they held up well in the wash, and no pilling was noticed.
Bee & Willow Cotton Flannel Queen Sheet Set
The Bee & Willow Cotton Flannel Queen Sheet Set earned consistently high scores across all tested categories. Testers found that the sheets were durable and well made while providing both breathability and warmth. The testers appreciated that the sides, tops, and bottoms were labeled and allowed them to make the bed effortlessly.
Stone & Beam Rustic 100% Cotton Plaid Flannel Bed Sheet Set
The Stone & Beam Rustic 100% Cotton Plaid Flannel Bed Sheet Set received a perfect score in the breathability category. Our testers noted that they could see light through the flannel sheets when they held them up, but the testers felt that the sheets still provided sufficient warmth. Testers also appreciated that the color of the sheets didn’t fade in the wash, even though there was some mild pilling after the wash. They’re only available in one pattern and limited sizes, though.
Your Questions, Answered
Do flannel sheets keep you warm?
Flannel sheets are made of cotton, which is a fairly breathable fabric. However, the napping in flannel sheets provides a fuzzy texture, which helps trap air, making the sheets feel warmer. “Think of the difference of making a tic-tac-toe board from thread versus feathers, to visualize the greater coverage you have with flannel,” says Caron Woolsey, founder and principal designer at CW Interiors. “Once made into a sheet, the flannel material holds in heat more effectively than a regular sheet, while still allowing air to flow between the fibers.” For the warmest flannel sheets, look for a flannel that has been properly and sufficiently napped. All of the flannel sheets we included on our list received high marks in the warmth category during our testing.
What makes a good-quality flannel sheet?
When looking for a quality flannel sheet, check to see if it has napping on both sides of the sheets. You’ll also want to take note of the weight of the sheets. While thread count may be a consideration for regular cotton sheets, the weight is more indicative of quality for flannel sheets. Flannel is measured in weight per square yard, and a five- to six-ounce weight per square yard is the standard of a well-made flannel sheet. Pilling is common in flannel sheets, but that doesn’t necessarily indicate low quality. “Pilling is caused by tiny breaks in the fabric, causing the cotton to fray and ball up,” Woolsey says. “These breaks can be lessened by reducing friction on the fabric, both during use and while washing.” To help reduce pilling, Woolsey recommends washing your flannel sheets on a gentle cycle. “Be sure to keep items that have zippers, buttons, and other closures separate on laundry day,” Woolsey says.
What is GSM?
GSM, or grams per square meter, is how much the flannel sheets weigh. “By definition, the heavier fabrics like denim, canvas, and flannel have fewer threads per square inch but are heavier in weight,” Woolsey says. While you may take thread count into consideration when shopping for cotton sheets, it’s more important to consider GSM when looking for warm flannel sheets, Woolsey says. A higher GSM number will indicate warmer sheets. If you want to try flannel sheets but are worried about getting too hot at night, she suggests looking for flannel sheets that have a lower GSM number.
How much do flannel sheets cost?
The 30 sets of flannel sheets we tested ranged from around $30 to $300. The price depends on the quality, size, and other specific factors that go into making the sheets (like organic or fair trade materials). A twin-sized sheet set will cost less than a king-sized set, since it requires less material to produce, but a quality sheet set won’t always be more expensive. You can find well-made flannel sheets for a reasonable cost ($30 to $150), but you can also splurge on additional features and details for a higher price. If your budget allows, Woolsey recommends buying more than one set of flannel sheets. “If you decide that flannel is the fabric for you, consider investing in two sets of sheets to allow for time to wash and dry them properly and keep them in top shape for years to come,” Woolsey says.
Who We Are
Brandi Fuller is a commerce editor for Better Homes & Gardens. She writes about the best home and products. For this list, she researched important factors to look for in flannel sheets and compared her findings with the insights provided by our testing lab in Des Moines, Iowa.
What Is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed our BHG Recommends seal of approval. Products that earn the seal have been put through rigorous testing to make sure they’re worth a spot in your home. We buy most of the products we test ourselves, but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying isn’t an option. In those cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products, and we let you know that we got it for free, to remain as transparent as possible about our picks. Looking for more products that have earned our BHG Recommends seal of approval? Check out our picks for everything from picnic blankets to humidifiers.
