What is the Difference Between Microfiber and Cotton Sheets

The main difference between microfiber and cotton sheets is that microfiber sheets are made with synthetic fibers while cotton sheets are made with natural fibers.

Cotton is one of the most commonly used materials for sheets. They are a good choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Microfiber sheets, on the other hand, are made of manmade fibers. Materials like polyester and nylon are made with microfibers. Although both are popular choices, there are many differences between cotton and microfiber sheets.

Key Areas Covered

1. What are Microfiber Sheets
     – Definition, Features, Pros and Cons
2. What are Cotton Sheets
     – Definition, Features, Pros and Cons
3. What is the Difference Between Microfiber and Cotton Sheets
    – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Cotton Sheets, Microfiber Sheets

What are Microfiber Sheets

Microfiber sheets are sheets made up of very thin synthetic fibers. The thickness of these thin fibers is less than one denier (a diameter of less than ten micrometres). In other words, for a material to be considered a microfiber, it must be less than 1 denier in diameter. A high denier indicates a material with higher thickness while a low denier indicates a material with lower thickness. Microfiber sheets usually have sateen or percale weaves.

Figure 01: Close up of Microfiber Weave

Microfiber sheets are lightweight and comfortable sheets, made from a variety of materials such as polyester, nylon polymers, or wood pulp. Although they are thin, they are exceptionally smooth, strong and durable. When compared to natural materials like cotton and linen, they are less prone to shrinkage and wrinkling. The tighter the weave, the more durable the sheet is, especially with frequent washing.

Pros of Microfiber Sheets

• Lightweight
• Durable, especially when it has a tight weave
• Machine washable

Cons of Microfiber Sheets

• More prone to staining as it is highly absorbent
• More prone to generate static

What are Cotton Sheets

Cotton is the most commonly used material to make bed sheets. Cotton sheets are breathable fabrics made from cotton plants, making it a more natural and organic option. Therefore, they are an environmentally-friendly choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

There are various styles and varieties of cotton, available in different price ranges. Cotton with low thread counts are coarse and scratchy and create small balls on the surface. However, high-quality cotton has higher thread counts. These are softer sheets such as Egyptian cotton or Supima cotton. Moreover, sateen and percale are the common weaves in cotton sheets.

Moreover, cotton sheets become softer and more comfortable with each wash. In addition to that, they wick away moisture and are naturally breathable.

Pros of Cotton Sheets

• Natural
• Available in a wide range of options
• Breathable and cool
• Good for people with allergies
• Soft

Cons of Cotton Sheets

• Comparatively more expensive
• Natural fibers are not as durable

Difference Between Microfiber and Cotton Sheets

Definition

Microfiber sheets are sheets made up of very thin synthetic fibers while cotton sheets are sheets made up of fibers taken from the cotton plant.

Type of Fiber

Microfiber sheets are made with synthetic fibers while cotton sheets are made with natural fibers.

Cost

Cotton sheets are comparatively more expensive than microfiber sheets.

Feel

While microfiber sheets feel silky and smooth, cotton sheets feel soft and breathable.

Sensitive Skin

Cotton sheets are the best option for people with sensitive skin and those with allergies.

Stains

Microfibers are more prone to staining than cotton sheets as they are highly absorbent.

Durability

Moreover, microfibers tend to be more durable than cotton sheets since natural fibers will eventually break down with more frequent washing.

Conclusion

The main difference between microfiber and cotton sheets is that microfiber sheets are made with synthetic fibers while cotton sheets are made with natural fibers. Moreover, microfiber sheets feel silky and smooth while cotton sheets feel soft and breathable.

Reference:

1. “Microfiber.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 28 July 2020, Available here.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Microfiber or Microfibre” By Anand2202 – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “536607” (CC0) via Pxhere