Comparing Polyester & Cotton Bedding: Which is Better?

01 Sep.,2025

 

Comparing Polyester & Cotton Bedding: Which is Better?

When it comes to choosing to bed, one of the most important decisions you'll make is selecting the right comforter. The comforter is what keeps you warm and cozy at night, so it's important to choose one that suits your needs and preferences. Two popular materials for comforters are polyester and cotton. Polyester and cotton sheets possess unique properties that distinguish them from each other. To make an informed decision between the two, it is crucial to evaluate their performance based on specific parameters. While cotton is known for its durability and exceptional comfort, polyester's ability to compete with cotton on the same attributes is worth considering.

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Two of the most popular materials used for comforters are polyester and cotton. In this article, we will compare polyester vs cotton comforters and help you make an informed decision.

Polyester Comforter

Polyester is a synthetic material that is widely used in the textile industry. Polyester comforters are popular due to their affordability and easy maintenance. Polyester comforters are lightweight, making them ideal for warmer climates. They are also hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for people with allergies.

Dominique Lavender 4-Piece Comforter Set

Who said feminine bedding had to be flowery? A more mature bedding choice, the Dominique Lavender 4-Piece Comforter Set is both ladylike and sophisticated. Featuring shades of pretty lavender and gleaming gold, this stunning collection showcases a woven jacquard damask pattern with a three-dimensional weave and satin finish technique on one side and a plush solid microfiber reverse side. Oversized for extra coziness, the set includes matching pillow shams with hidden zippers and a split corner bed skirt featuring striped chenille. Want to expand on your new look? Pick up some Dominique throw pillows, shams, and window treatments for an added cost. The collection is available in sizes queen, king, and California king, so you’re certain to find a choice that works for you.

Sovana Soft Sage 4-Piece Comforter Set by J Queen

Maybe cooling colors are more your preference. If so, we’re confident you’ll be drawn to the beauty and comfort of the Sovana Soft Sage 4-Piece Comforter Set. Created by beloved designer J Queen, this soothing set marries the modern with the luxurious thanks to shades of sage, champagne, and white. Oversized and overfilled, the collection features a woven damask fabric with shimmering yarn for added dimension. Those who select this set will also receive a pair of matching Sovana shams and a split-corner tailored bed skirt. However, those who choose can pick up extra pieces like throw pillows and window treatments for an added fee. Select from sizes queen, king, and California king.

Colonial Gold 4-Piece Comforter Set By J Queen

Has the recent coronation in England reawakened your love for regal bedroom decor? If so, J Queen’s Colonial Gold 4-Piece Comfort Set may be the way to go. Showcasing elegant hues of gold and amber, this bedding collection has gone through a special wash and tumble dry process to give the damask comforter a soft, relaxed quality. For extra luxury, the collection includes a solid gold satin bed skirt and cut by pattern pillow shams with pleated satin accents. Those looking to save time on shopping can opt to purchase the Colonial Gold window panels, Euro shams, and throw pillows for an extra cost. Select from sizes queen, king, and California king when making your purchase.

One of the significant advantages of polyester comforters is that they are easy to clean if you can maintain the whole stuff properly. They can be machine washed and dried, making them ideal for people who do not have the time or energy to hand wash their comforters. Polyester comforters are also resistant to wrinkles and shrinkage, making them ideal for people who want a low-maintenance comforter. However, one of the drawbacks of polyester comforters is that they are not as breathable as cotton comforters. Polyester comforters tend to trap heat, which can make them uncomfortable to sleep under during hot summer nights. However, polyester comforters are not as durable as cotton comforters. They tend to wear out faster, and the filling may shift or clump after washing.

Cotton Comforter

Cotton is a natural material that is commonly used in the textile industry. Cotton comforters are popular due to their softness, breathability, and durability. Cotton comforters are ideal for people who want a comforter that is both comfortable and durable. One of the significant advantages of cotton comforters is that they are breathable. Cotton comforters allow air to circulate, which can help regulate body temperature and prevent overheating.

Another advantage of cotton comforters is that they are more durable than polyester comforters. Cotton comforters tend to last longer and are less likely to wear out or tear. They also tend to maintain their shape and loft, even after multiple items of washing. However, one of the drawbacks of cotton comforters is that they can be more expensive than polyester comforters. Additionally, cotton comforters may require special care, such as hand washing or dry cleaning, to maintain their quality and durability.

Of course, cotton is a classic choice when it comes to bedding. Delightfully soft and exceptionally breathable, cotton comforter sets function well year round, meeting your needs no matter the temperature outdoors. Below are some of the most stylish Bebejan comforter sets currently available in our online store:

Bebejan Bloom Purple Cotton 230 Thread Count 5-Piece Reversible Comforter Set

Spring is the perfect time to appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors. So it’s no surprise that this flowery comforter set by Bebejan is currently attracting shoppers’ attention. Featuring a stunning floral print in shades of plum and amethyst against a creamy white backdrop, the comforter reverses to a more subdued neutral print. So you can switch up your look whenever you feel the urge. Additionally, this set is exceptionally soft and cooling thanks to the 230 thread count, 100 percent cotton sateen fabric. Along with a comforter, it comes complete with two reversible pillow shams, an embroidered pillow, a printed pillow, and a bonus bag for easy storage. Choose from sizes queen and king for this machine washable bedding collection. 

Bebejan Asti Black Cotton 230 Thread Count 5-Piece Reversible Comforter Set

Looking to remodel your master bedroom? Maybe you’re seeking a stylish comforter set for your guest room. The good news is this collection by Bebejan works well for all tastes and budgets. Featuring shades of black, gray, and gold, this perfectly plush comforter is made from 100 percent cotton sateen and reverses to a dark gray textured solid print. Additionally, the collection features printed floral medallions bordered with a twisted rope design to give your bedroom a dose of fun and whimsy. Two zipper pillow shams, a tufted black square pillow with gold scroll embroidery, and a black oblong pillow finish out the collection, which comes with a bonus storage bag. Customers can select from sizes queen and king, and the set is machine washable for easy cleaning.

Bebejan Echo White Cotton 230 Thread Count 5-Piece Reversible Comforter Set

Who said bedding had to be fussy? This sleek set is perfect for those who like more neutral bedding options that boast a global flair. Featuring five pieces, the Bebejan Echo White Collection is made from digitally printed 230 thread count cotton sateen and showcases shades of charcoal, gold, and ivory. However, those seeking a change can flip the comforter over to the tonal allover ivory/grey mini medallion print on the reverse. Matching shams and decorative printed and embroidered pillows finish off this trendy set, which works just as well in the master bedroom as it does a guest or teenager’s room. The Echo Collection is available in queen and king and features a fill of 250 GSM to keep you warm on cold nights. 

Difference Between Polyester and 100% Cotton Bedding

The appeal of polyester and cotton comforters depends on a particular set of characteristics that can attract everyone. The ideal comforter for you will rely on your individual preferences and the capacity of the sheets to fulfill their claims. While cotton comforters promise the benefits of using a fully organic bedding material, polyester comforters offer an advantage in terms of their competitive pricing. To make a well-informed decision, you can compare the two materials based on their fundamental features to narrow down your choices and select the one that suits your requirements.

Fabric and Feel

For a considerable period, cotton has remained the top material for bed sheets, owing to its organic properties, making it a preferred choice among individuals who embrace an eco-friendly way of life. Cotton Comforters are crafted from cotton fibers harvested from the cotton plant and skillfully woven together to create a robust and long-lasting fabric. Cotton, particularly premium types like Egyptian cotton, has a luxurious and crisp texture attributed to it. This is achieved by utilizing longer cotton fibers in the production of cotton sheets, which enhances their smoothness. As a fabric, cotton is highly comfortable and its hypoallergenic properties make it an excellent choice for those prone to allergies.

Luxury hotels also favor cotton as a material for their bed sheets. For those seeking supremely soft sheets, Egyptian cotton or Pima cotton are the top choices. In contrast, polyester is a completely synthetic fabric made from binding agents and machinery, lacking any organic properties. Despite this, polyester can rival cotton in terms of fabric quality as cotton sheets, polyester sheets are soft and smooth to the touch, and they are also lightweight. However, unlike cotton comforters, polyester comforters are less prone to fading or shrinking after being washed. On the other hand, they tend to bunch up while sleeping on one's side, which can adversely affect sleep quality.

Durability

Polyester and pure cotton comforter are known for their exceptional durability. Cotton fabrics are typically woven using strong patterns like satin, sateen, and percale, using long-staple and extra-long staple cotton fibers, which contribute to their overall resilience. However, it is important to keep in mind that cotton fibers tend to shrink in the wash. As a result, with each trip to the laundry, the lifespan of your cotton bedsheets may be reduced.

Cotton Comforters have a unique characteristic of becoming softer with each wash, unlike many other synthetic fibers. However, the softness of cotton comforters could lead to their breakdown over time. On the other hand, polyester, a synthetic material, competes with cotton comforters in terms of durability and often outlasts them. This is due to the use of plastic derivatives in the manufacturing of polyester, making it difficult to tear or rip apart. Polyester fibers have a lower tendency to shrink in comparison to cotton fibers and are relatively resistant to pilling. As a result, your polyester comforter is somewhat more long-lasting than those made of cotton.

Breathability and Moisture Wicking

To ensure breathability, a fabric must permit a free and unimpeded passage of air. Due to its organic composition, cotton is naturally breathable and has excellent temperature-regulating characteristics. Unlike other materials, cotton does not retain excessive body heat, thus reducing the risk of sleeping uncomfortably warm. Instead, it facilitates the dissipation of body heat into the surrounding air, enabling a cooler sleeping environment.

Cotton possesses exceptional moisture-wicking qualities. This means that if you experience night sweats, cotton comforters can absorb the moisture and allow it to evaporate, resulting in a mild cooling sensation. This feature makes cotton an excellent choice for hot sleepers who want to stay cool throughout the night. Conversely, polyester, a synthetic material, is not suitable for those who sleep hot or reside in warmer regions. Unlike cotton, polyester comforters are less breathable and more likely to retain your body heat, potentially elevating your body temperature. Polyester may not absorb moisture as much as other materials, but it compensates by drying quickly. If you tend to sleep hot and struggle with night sweats, polyester's fast-drying capabilities can provide a slight cooling effect and help you stay dry throughout most of the night. However, the drawback of polyester as a material that is less breathable has been recognized by manufacturers who have developed improved versions of polyester. By utilizing better weaving patterns, some of these varieties now exhibit notable breathability and moisture-wicking properties.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Due to their hypoallergenic properties, cotton comforters typically require minimal maintenance over the years. However, if you are particularly focused on cleanliness, it is important to be aware that repeated and frequent washing of your cotton comforters may cause them to begin to tear. To properly wash these comforters, it's crucial to follow a set of instructions. Firstly, the comforter can be washed using a washing machine, but only using either the normal or delicate cycle. The water temperature used during the wash should also be considered based on the color of the cotton comforter. For darker colors, colder water is recommended to prevent color fading, whereas, for white or light-colored comforters, warmer water is more effective in removing stains.

If you want to prevent wrinkling in your cotton comforter after washing them, you can either tumble dry them on low heat or hang them out in the sun to dry. Polyester is a low-maintenance fabric that can be easily washed in a washing machine, as long as you follow the care label instructions properly. Unlike cotton, polyester is less prone to wrinkling. However, it is more susceptible to pilling, which means it's best to dry it on a clothesline under direct sunlight. In the absence of a clothesline, a machine dryer can be used, but it should be set to the lowest heat setting available.

Pricing

Polyester comforters are normally cheaper than cotton comforters due to their production using synthetic materials that are easily obtainable. On the other hand, cotton sheets, particularly those made of Egyptian cotton, Pima cotton, and Supima cotton, are typically more expensive. However, it's important to consider the diverse range of cotton and polyester comforter options available in the market for a fair comparison. While Egyptian cotton comforters can start at over $200, you can also find a decent cotton comforter set for as low as $40.

Similarly to Egyptian cotton bedding, polyester sheets also vary in cost. While some polyester varieties are generally less expensive than high-quality Egyptian cotton bedding, certain types of polyester comforters with improved weaves and increased breathability can be slightly pricier than traditional polyester sheets.

Are polyester comforters good quality?

While cotton comforters are a popular choice, it's worth noting that polyester sheets can also be of excellent quality. They are known for their durability and smooth, soft texture, and are preferred by some individuals. Each fabric has its advantages, so personal preference plays a significant role. If you're searching for high-quality bedding, consider exploring Polysleep's selection of mattresses. With the right mattress, sheets, blankets, and pillows, you can enhance your sleep experience.

Every bedding product has its advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to keep them in mind when choosing the right fabric or material for you. However, you could try both polyester and cotton comforters and decide which one you prefer. While polyester comforters can be a good choice for some people, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. For example, polyester may not be as breathable as natural fabrics, which could be uncomfortable for some people, particularly in hot or humid weather.

When choosing between polyester and cotton comforters, it's important to consider factors such as comfort, affordability, durability, maintenance, and allergies. By weighing these factors and considering your personal preferences, you can choose the right comforter for your needs and enjoy a cozy and comfortable night's sleep.

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Best Material for Bed Sheets | Sleep Foundation

Types of Sheets, Explained

You can find sheets made from a variety of fabrics, and each of these materials meets different needs. Certain fabrics help keep a sleeper cool, and others are made to be warm and insulating. Some materials offer a luxurious feel, while others are appealing due to their low cost. We’ll explore commonly used fabrics in sheets, detailing what type of sleepers they suit.

Cotton

Cotton is the most common fabric used for sheets. Generally speaking, cotton has excellent breathability and moisture-wicking abilities. Additionally, cotton sheets are typically durable and easy to maintain. There is a range of both cotton types and fabric weaves, each with their own properties.

Linen

Linen is derived from the flax plant, which provides long fibers for textiles. As a result, linen is highly durable. Linen sheets offer excellent breathability and moisture-wicking abilities, making them a good choice for sleepers looking for effective temperature regulation. 

New linen sheets may be slightly coarse to the touch, but the material softens after multiple washings. Sheets made from linen wrinkle easily, though they can be ironed if you’re looking for a crisp, smooth appearance. 

Linen is a good option for those looking for an all-natural, hypoallergenic sheet with great thermal regulation. However, linen sheets tend to be pricier than sheets made with other materials.

Flannel

Flannel sheets are often soft and heavy, offering excellent heat retention. Flannel does not describe a textile’s material origin but rather a process. Creating flannel involves brushing a fabric to increase its thickness and softness, which in turn increases the fabric’s insulating properties. 

Although flannel can be made from wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers, most flannel sheets are cotton. Flannel sheets are typically reasonably priced and are a great choice for cooler months or for people who tend to sleep cold at night.  

 Polyester

The polyester used in most clothing and sheets is a synthetic material made from plastic fibers. Polyester sheets are inexpensive, machine-washable, and relatively resistant to wrinkles. 

Sheets made from polyester tend to have poor breathability and may not be ideal for those looking to sleep cool. Because polyester can trap moisture, it may feel unpleasant to some sleepers.

As with clothing, polyester is often blended with cotton to create a smoother feel and better temperature regulation than polyester on its own.

Bamboo

Sheets made from bamboo are rarely made directly from bamboo fibers. Instead, they are made from rayon, a material derived from bamboo pulp via a chemical process.

Bamboo-derived sheets are very soft and offer excellent breathability, making this sheet type a great choice for those who want to sleep cool. The sheets are also fairly durable and offer some stretch. 

Bamboo rayon sheets are usually pricier than cotton sheets. Some manufacturers may advertise their bamboo-based sheets as green or sustainable. However, shoppers should note that harsh chemicals are used to process bamboo into rayon.

Silk

Silk is a luxurious fabric that comes from the cocoons of silkworms. Silk is hypoallergenic, and the smooth feel of silk is great for sleepers who prefer extremely soft sheets as well as those with sensitive skin. In addition, silk has excellent temperature regulation and moisture-wicking capabilities.  

Silk sheets tend to be more expensive, and caring for them requires following specific instructions to prevent damaging the material. Silk should be washed on the cold delicate cycle and air dried. Even with careful maintenance, silk sheets may wear out faster than sheets made from other materials. 

Microfiber

Microfiber is a type of polyester with fine and tightly woven fibers. Microfiber may also be brushed, which lends the material a soft, velvety feel. 

Microfiber sheets tend to have an approachable price-point and are a good choice for sleepers wanting a warm and soft sleep surface. Like polyester, microfiber is wrinkle-resistant and easy to clean and maintain. 

Microfiber is not as breathable as cotton, so sleepers prone to overheating at night should consider sheets made from other materials. Microfiber sheets are also not a good option for people who value all-natural materials.

Tencel

Tencel is derived from eucalyptus trees. The material is soft, smooth, and durable. It’s also resistant to dust and bacteria. Tencel typically sleeps cool thanks to its excellent moisture-wicking properties.

What Thread Count Means

Thread count is a measure of the number of threads per square inch of fabric. Generally, a higher thread count denotes finer thread and a tighter weave, which translates to a softer and more durable sheet.  

A higher thread count may reduce breathability, as air cannot pass as easily through tightly woven fabric. In addition, some very high thread counts are a product of using double- or triple-ply threads that do not actually reflect the quality of a sheet set.

Ultimately, thread count is only one factor to consider as you shop for sheets, and this measure alone does not determine a sheet’s quality. Instead, it is important to evaluate thread count along with other elements that affect the performance of bedsheets, including the material type and weave.

Is a Higher Thread Count Better?

While noting a sheet’s thread count is important, shoppers should keep in mind that a higher thread count isn’t always better. Depending on the material, most sheets function best within a certain thread count range. 

After a certain point, extra thread count may not convey any additional benefit. For example, a thread count over 600 may not have a noticeable effect on the feel, performance, or durability of the sheets.

Shoppers should also note manufacturers who advertise sheets with thread counts over 900. Manufacturers can manipulate the definition of thread count to boost the number on the packaging. For example, while a weave with double- or triple-ply threads has two or three fibers, the manufacturer counts each thread two to three times, inflating the overall thread count. Manufacturers who employ these tactics may be selling lower-quality sheets.

What Thread Count Should You Look For?

Different materials and weaves have different ideal thread count ranges. For example, cotton sheets tend to have higher thread counts, while sheets made from linen have lower thread counts. Consider these ideal thread count ranges as you shop for sheets.

  • Regular cotton: 200-400
  • Egyptian cotton: 300-400
  • Percale weave: 200-400
  • Sateen weave: 300-600
  • Twill: 200-500
  • Bamboo: 300-500
  • Tencel: 300-400
  • Linen: 80-140 

For linen sheets, the thread count often does not correspond to quality, so many linen sheet manufacturers do not list a thread count.

Grams Per Square Meter

Certain fabrics are measured in grams per square meter, or GSM. The higher a material’s GSM, the denser or thicker a material will be. 

Flannel, for example, is often classified according to GSM. One of flannel’s primary characteristics is its warmth, and a flannel’s insulative potential will be directly related to its GSM. 

The following list provides ideal GSM ranges for sheets made from various fabrics.  

  • Linen: 170-190 GSM
  • Flannel: 170+ GSM
  • Microfiber: 90-120 GSM
  • Jersey: 150 GSM

Silk Measurements

Silk fabric is measured in the form of momme. Momme measures the weight in pounds of silk that is 100 yards long by 45 inches wide. Silk may also be measured by denier, which describes the weight of a single fiber. However, it’s not as common to come across the denier unit when shopping for silk sheets.

  • Momme: Momme describes the tightness of the weave. The higher the momme, the denser and more durable the silk. Look for silk sheets in the 17 to 22 momme range.
  • Denier: Denier measures the weight in grams of a single fiber of silk that is 9,000 meters long. It is not as common for manufacturers to use this measurement.

What Sheets Should You Choose?

There is no single sheet material or weave that will fit everyone’s needs. There are many types of bedsheets available on the market today, making it easy for sleepers to find a sheet that’s best for their needs.  

Most Common Best Sheets

The most common material used for sheets is cotton. A big part of cotton’s appeal is that it provides a variety of options at many different price-points. Cotton sheets can be anything from light and breathable to dense and warming. Cotton is also easy to clean and maintain.

Because of the diversity of cotton sheets, it’s important to look closely at the details when considering this type of sheet. Things like the types of cotton, weave, and thread count can provide essential information to help select the best sheets for your bed. 

Best Sheets for Hot Sleepers

Hot sleepers should seek out sheets that are light, breathable, and have moisture-wicking properties. Sheets with these properties enable airflow while pulling sweat away from the body to prevent sleepers from overheating. 

Sheets made from linen, silk, bamboo-derived rayon, and Tencel are known for their excellent breathability. Cotton sheets with a percale weave can also be airy and light. 

Sleepers looking for a fabric that has undergone less chemical processing may find silk or linen meets their needs. Silk offers great temperature regulation, and linen is known as an excellent sheet in warmer weather. However, these types of sheets often come at a higher price-point.

Best Sheets for Cold Sleepers

Cold sleepers should look for heavier sheets that will trap heat and provide a warm, cozy feel. Flannel sheets are well regarded for their warmth, and heavier cotton sheets can help retain heat. Brushed microfiber sheets can also deliver a plush feel that helps hold in body heat. 

Cold sleepers should generally avoid bamboo-derived rayon and Tencel options, as sheets made from these materials are generally designed for breathability and cooling.

 Best Luxury Sheets

Shoppers looking for luxury sheets should consider Egyptian cotton and silk. Egyptian cotton has a reputation as the highest-quality cotton and yields sheets with superior softness, durability, and breathability. 

Additionally, silk can provide an extremely smooth feel against the skin. Silk sheets are lightweight and often used during warmer months, but they can also provide year-round comfort. 

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