Summers - the weather of sunny days, lots of ice cream and juices, going to the beach and soaking up all the vitamin D. This is all the fun stuff but, as the temperatures rise and the days get longer, a good restful sleep can be super relaxing. But do you find yourself tossing and turning in sweaty sheets? This happens when you use warm or synthetic bed sheets during the summer months. So which bed sheets are the best for summer in India, what is the best fabric, weave, and thread count to keep you cool and comfortable all season long? Keep on reading to know which bed sheets are best for summer.
Summer in India hits very high temperatures. We're talking about extremely hot sunny days that feel endless and temperatures that can easily climb above 40°C (104°F) in some cities. Places like Delhi, Rajasthan's cities like Jaipur and Jodhpur, and even Kolkata in the east can get crazy hot.
Why so hot? Summers in India are so hot because of two main reasons: lack of rain and intense sunlight. The monsoon season ends, leaving little to no rain to cool things down. With clear skies and no clouds to block the sun, the sunshine beats down all day, heating the land and pushing temperatures to uncomfortable highs. This combination creates a furnace-like atmosphere across the country.
Now, imagine trying to sleep in these conditions with heavy sheets! Very uncomfortable. This is where summer bed sheets come in as lifesavers. Made from lightweight, breathable materials like cotton, they allow air to circulate through your body, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout the night. So, ditch those heavy winter sheets and swap them for summer ones – your body will thank you!
What are summer bed sheets?
Bed sheets for summers are specifically designed to combat the heat and discomfort of those sweltering summer nights. Unlike regular sheets or synthetic bed sheets, these natural fibre bed sheets prioritize qualities that keep you cool and breathe easy, allowing for a more restful sleep.
Here's what makes summer bed sheets different:
- Material: They are typically made from fabrics known for their breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Cotton and linen are popular choices.
- Weave: Summer bed sheets often have a looser weave, allowing for better airflow and preventing heat from being trapped. Here the popular choice is Percale Cotton Bed sheets.
- Weight: They are lightweight, feeling light and airy on your skin. A thread count of 200 to 400 would be a good choice for summers.
- Design: Lighter colour bed sheets like white bed sheets, beige bed sheets or softer colours are preferred options. Darker colour sheets absorb light and heat however lighter colour bed sheets don't trap any heat.
Also read our blog on flat vs fitted sheets.
What kind of bed sheets are best for summer?
Do yourself a favour and buy the best summer-friendly bed sheets or fitted sheets to get that restful sleep that you truly deserve. But with so many bed sheet options, choosing the right fabric can feel like navigating a sweltering labyrinth. Two contenders often rise to the top: cotton and linen. Let's delve into each bed sheet.
Why should you choose cotton bed sheets for summer?
Cotton reigns supreme as a summer bed sheet material for several reasons. First and foremost, its natural fibre structure allows for exceptional breathability. Air flows freely through the cotton weave, preventing heat from getting trapped and keeping you cool throughout the night.
Secondly, cotton excels at moisture management. When you perspire during hot summer nights, the cotton absorbs and releases moisture, preventing that sticky, uncomfortable feeling. Plus, cotton bed sheets are naturally lightweight and have a crisp, cool feel against the skin, further enhancing the refreshing sleep experience.
Finally, cotton is a durable fabric, ensuring your summer sheets will last for many seasons to come. So, if you're seeking a cool, comfortable, and long-lasting sleep haven during the summer heat, cotton summer bed sheets are a natural choice.
Cotton Bed Sheets for summers
- Breathebility: Cotton is a natural champion. Its fibre structure allows air to flow freely, preventing heat from becoming trapped and keeping you cool.
- Moisture Management: Cotton excels at wicking away moisture, a lifesaver for sweaty summer nights. As you perspire, the fabric absorbs and releases moisture, keeping you feeling dry and comfortable.
- Lightweight and Crisp: Cotton sheets have a light and airy feel, perfect for those seeking a refreshingly cool sleep experience.
- Durability: Cotton is a naturally strong and resilient fabric, ensuring your sheets will last for many summers to come.
- Consider the Weave: Percale weave is the king of summer cotton. It's one-over, one-under construction creates a crisp, cool feeling on the skin
Sateen Cotton Bed sheets can be a decent summer option because:
- Air-Conditioned Bedrooms: If you have air conditioning and keep your bedroom cool at night, then the tighter weave of Sateen Cotton bed sheets becomes less of a concern. You might still enjoy the smooth, luxurious feel without experiencing excessive warmth.
- Personal Preference: Some people simply prefer the feel of sateen, even if it's not as breathable as a Percale Cotton Bed sheet. If you find cotton percale too crisp, then a sateen cotton bed sheet could be a suitable choice.
If staying cool is your ultimate goal, cotton percale sheets are the clear winner. Their breathability and moisture-wicking properties are hard to beat for a truly refreshing summer sleep. And if you prioritise a smooth, luxurious feel and don't mind a slightly warmer sleep experience (or have air conditioning), sateen sheets could be a good option.
Belong bed sheets are perfect for Indian summers because they're made using pure organic cotton, without any synthetic fibres mixed in. This means no pesticides or harmful chemicals were used in making them, ensuring a safe and healthy sleep environment. Our summer bed sheets and fitted sheets are of export quality, crafted with long staple single-ply organic cotton and dyed using non-toxic dyes. We've designed them with your comfort in mind, providing bigger bed sheets and deep-pocket fitted sheets to fit your needs perfectly.
What's more, our factories are Fairtrade certified, and we're proud to say that we employ and empower hundreds of women in the process. So, when you choose Belong's cotton bed sheets, you're not just getting quality bedding, but you're also supporting ethical and sustainable practices.
Also read our blog on tips to save on bedding.
How to care for bed sheets in summer?
Summer nights demand cool, crisp sheets. But with increased sweating and the potential for dust mite growth in hot weather, keeping your summer bed sheet material fresh and clean becomes even more important. Here are some tips to ensure your sheets stay cool and hygienic all season long:
- Wash More Frequently: Bump up your washing frequency! Aim to wash your sheets at least once a week, or even twice a week during particularly hot and sweaty periods. This removes sweat, body oils, and dead skin cells that can build up and make sheets feel hot and sticky.
- Temperature Matters: Check the care label, but for most summer sheets, hot water is your friend. Hot water (around 60°C or 140°F) kills dust mites and bacteria that thrive in warm weather.
- Embrace the Power of Detergent: Use a good-quality laundry detergent specifically designed for bedding. Consider fragrance-free options to avoid any irritation during hot nights.
- Skip the Fabric Softener: While tempting, fabric softener can leave a residue on sheets, reducing their breathability. Opt for the natural cooling power of the fabric itself.
- Air Drying is Best: Whenever possible, ditch the dryer and line dry your sheets in the fresh air and sunshine. This saves energy and leaves your sheets smelling fresh and naturally cool. However, always check the care label for drying instructions – some fabrics may require low-tumble drying.
Ultimately, the best summer bed sheet choice depends on your individual needs and the climate you live in. In India, summers hit extremely high temperatures which requires one to choose bed sheets that are cool and breathable. If you live in particularly hot and humid regions in India, then prioritise breathability with cotton percale bed sheets by Belong. In drier climates with occasional hot nights, sateen sheets might offer a good balance of comfort and luxury.
No matter your choice, remember, that a good night's sleep during the summer is within reach. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of cotton and sateen sheets, you can find the perfect match for a cool and comfortable summer slumber.
FAQs
- What are the best fabrics for summer bed sheets?
Cotton, particularly cotton percale with a looser weave, is the clear winner for summer. It's breathable, moisture-wicking, lightweight, and keeps you cool. Linen is another good option, offering similar benefits to cotton.
- What thread count should I look for in summer bed sheets?
Thread count refers to the number of threads per square inch. For breathability and a cool feeling, get cotton bed sheets with a thread count between 200 and 400. Make sure that the weave is single-ply cotton weave.
- Are sateen bed sheets good for summer?
Sateen Cotton sheets have a smooth, luxurious feel, but their weave is denser and hence not as cool as percale cotton sheets. They might be a decent option if you have air conditioning or prioritise a smooth feel over pure coolness.
- How often should I wash my summer bed sheets?
Wash your summer bed sheets at least once a week, or even twice a week during hot and sweaty periods. This removes sweat, body oils, and dust mites that can make sheets feel hot and sticky.
- What can I do to keep my summer bed sheets cool and fresh?
- Shower before bed to regulate your body temperature and reduce sweating.
- Invest in a mattress protector to trap dust mites and allergens.
- Rotate your sheets so you have a fresh set ready while washing others.
- Line-dry your sheets outside whenever possible for a naturally cool and fresh feel.
- What if I sleep hot but my partner sleeps cold?
Consider separate comforters with different weights for each person. You might also explore cooling mattress pads for your side of the bed.
Written by: Shivangi Singh