3 Reasons Why You'll Love Stonewashed Cotton Sheets

Are bed sheets made from stonewashed cotton truly that different from regular ones? Is it worthwhile to search out this specific material when you are buying bed sheets? For that matter, what is stonewashed cotton? In short, the answers to the first two questions are yes and it depends. However, let’s not leave it at that but explore a bit further, starting with the third question.  

What Is Stonewashed Cotton?

Stonewashed cotton is a type of cotton fabric that gets its unique characteristics as a result of the processing method and not based on the type of cotton plant that is used - it undergoes a unique washing process involving natural or synthetic stones. The process includes placing a standard cotton fabric in large industrial washers with stones, which tumble and abrade the fabric. 

The purpose of this stone-washing process is to loosen the cotton yarns to get a softer, more flexible material with a slightly distressed appearance. On top of softening the fabric, this technique gives it a type of worn-in, vintage look that many people find highly desirable. The process can also add subtle variations in colour and texture, contributing to the unique aesthetic. The end result is soft sheets from the very first use.

What Makes Stonewashed Cotton Special

Now that we know what stonewashed cotton is, what properties does it have?

1. All the Benefits of Standard Cotton Sheets

Cotton, in general, is considered one of the best materials for bed sheets. Stonewashed cotton sheets retain all the natural advantages of standard cotton sheets, making them an excellent choice for bedding. Cotton is well known for its breathability, which helps regulate body temperature and ensures a comfortable sleeping environment. 

This natural fibre is also hypoallergenic, making it a good choice if you have sensitive skin or allergies. Additionally, cotton sheets are highly absorbent, which helps wick away moisture and keep you cool and dry throughout the night. The combination of these factors makes stonewashed cotton sheets excellent bedding both for summer and winter.

2. Softer Than Regular Cotton and a Unique Aesthetic

Besides the advantages of standard cotton sheets, stonewashed cotton has additional beneficial characteristics, some of which we mentioned. First and foremost, the loosening of the cotton yarns allows stonewashed sheets to be significantly softer than standard cotton. This is something you can feel from the first use, and there is no need to wash them a few times to eliminate the stiff feel some sheets have.

The stone-washing process also imparts a unique appearance to the fabric. The slight variations in colour and the subtly distressed look give stonewashed cotton sheets a relaxed, lived-in aesthetic that can add character to any bedroom decor. This combination of softness and style makes stonewashed cotton sheets a favourite for people who value both comfort and design in their bedding choices.

3. Extremely Durable and Easy to Care For

Stonewashed cotton sheets are not only luxuriously soft and visually unique but also exceptionally durable. Despite its softness, stonewashed cotton retains the inherent strength of cotton fibres, which are characterised by longevity and resilience. The stone-washing process does not compromise the integrity of the fabric - instead, it enhances its durability by pre-shrinking and softening the fibres. 

This means that you can use and wash stonewashed cotton sheets regularly, and they won’t lose their shape or softness. On top of that, stonewashed cotton sheets are remarkably easy to care for - they require minimal maintenance to keep them looking and feeling their best. They can typically be machine-washed and dried, making them convenient for everyday use. 

Unlike some specialty fabrics, like silk or sateen, that require delicate handling, stonewashed cotton can handle regular washing cycles with ease. This makes stonewashed cotton sheets an excellent choice for busy households or anyone looking for low-maintenance bedding options that combine comfort and practicality.

Benefits Compared to Other Fabrics 

When comparing stonewashed cotton sheets to other popular fabrics like silk, bamboo, linen, and microfiber, cotton has several distinct advantages. Cotton sheets, including the stonewashed varieties, are somewhat more breathable than silk, which can sometimes trap heat and make you feel less comfortable in warmer climates. On the other hand, bamboo sheets are very breathable and excellent for warmer climates, but not so much for cold weather, and they can become less durable over time. 

When comparing linen vs. cotton sheets, cotton wins out in terms of ease of care. Linen sheets, while breathable and durable, tend to wrinkle easily and require more maintenance to keep them looking their best. Cotton, on the other hand, is less prone to wrinkling and can be machine-washed and dried with minimal fuss. Compared to microfiber sheets, stonewashed cotton is much more breathable and softer, and has natural moisture-wicking properties, ensuring a cooler, more comfortable sleep environment.

How To Select Stonewashed Cotton Sheets

When choosing stonewashed cotton sheets, you should start by ensuring a proper fit. A well-fitting sheet stays in place throughout the night, preventing uncomfortable bunching and slipping, which you know is an important factor for proper sleep. Consider the dimensions of your mattress, including its depth. 

Deep-fitted sheets are particularly important if you have a thicker mattress or use toppers, as they have extra fabric to accommodate the additional height, ensuring a snug and secure fit. Your personal preference for aesthetics is another key factor when selecting stonewashed cotton sheets. Consider colours and textures that match your personal style and potentially complement your existing furnishings, ensuring your sheets not only feel great but also enhance the aesthetic of your bedroom. 

Finally, take a look at the thread count of your sheets. Thread count is the number of strands/threads of cotton fabric found in 10 cm2 of fabric. So, what is a good thread count for sheets? Traditionally, sheets with a higher thread count were considered to be of higher quality; however, that is not precisely true. 

Cotton bed sheets with a higher thread count tend to be softer and more durable, but they are also thicker, making them heavier and less breathable. So, for colder climates, cotton bed sheets with a thread count of over 800 are a good choice, however, for warmer climates, it's often worth sacrificing some durability and softness and getting sheets with a lower count.

Where Can You Find High-Quality Stonewashed Cotton Sheets?

Hopefully, now you know what stonewashed cotton sheets are and how they compare to other fabrics. If you believe this material is the best choice for you, the only thing left is to find where you can get high-quality sheets. With that, we can help you out. At Manchester Collection, we have a wide range of affordable stonewashed cotton sheets of the highest quality.

You can place your order online or visit one of our stores and make your purchase in person. On the other hand, if you don’t think stonewashed sheets are for you, our collection of bed sheets includes many other fabrics, from bamboo to satin to Egyptian cotton sheets. So take your time to find your ideal set of bed sheets and contact us if you need any assistance.