Better sleep starts here: the bed sheets that feel great and last (from $35 a set)

Percale is a one-over, one-under weave that feels cool, crisp and matte: great for hot sleepers. Sateen floats more threads on the surface for a smooth, slightly shiny feel that sleeps a little warmer. Microfiber is a fine polyester that's soft, wrinkle resistant and inexpensive but less breathable. Thread count matters less than fiber quality; a 300-thread-count long-staple percale often feels better than a 1,000-count blend.

Finish the bed with a silk pillowcase from our best silk pillowcases guide and the right pillow from our best pillows for side sleepers.

• Weave. Percale for cool and crisp, sateen for smooth and warm.
• Fiber. Long-staple cotton pills less and lasts longer.
• Pocket depth. Measure your mattress plus topper.
• Care. Wash in cool or warm water and dry on low to limit shrinkage.

How we chose: we compared specs, materials, features and price, and read owner and expert feedback. We didn't test these products ourselves. Prices are approximate and change often, so check the current price before you buy.

• Chasing thread count. Very high counts often use thinner, lower-quality threads. Fiber and weave matter more.
• Washing too hot. Hot water and high dryer heat shrink cotton and wear it out faster.
• Overloading the washer. Sheets need room to move to get clean and rinse properly.
• Ignoring pocket depth. Fitted sheets that are too shallow pop off thick mattresses and toppers.
• Skipping a second set. Rotating two sets reduces wear and means a fresh set is always ready.

Remove sheets from the dryer while slightly warm and fold or put them back on the bed right away to reduce wrinkles. For crisp percale, a quick press of the pillowcases and the top fold of the flat sheet makes the bed look hotel-ready.

If you sleep hot, combine percale sheets with a cooling pillow and a lightweight duvet.

If you like a smooth, cozy bed, get Brooklinen Luxe. Hot sleepers should choose Parachute Percale. Boll & Branch is the luxury splurge or wedding gift. California Design Den is the best budget cotton set, and Mellanni microfiber is perfect for guest rooms and dorms.