The Best Flannel Sheets to Keep You Nice & Warm in 2021

People often shop for flannel sheets as winter approaches, but these thick soft sheets are wonderful all year long, especially if you get chilly at night. A good flannel sheet set will warm you up right away so you can get a good night’s sleep. They are soft and comfy while providing the insulation you need from the cold, thanks to their loosely spun yarn. With all the luxury they provide, it’s surprising how inexpensive flannel sheets are. If you want to stay warm indoors, flannel sheets are a much healthier option than drying out the air with the heat on all the time. Furthermore, you will see your heating bills go down during the winter while still staying nice and warm in bed at night. 

However, you do have to be careful when choosing which sheets to buy. If you end up with a set of poor-quality flannel sheets, they could become a scratchy mess after a few washings.  

The best flannel sheets, particularly the ones we recommend below, will remain soft and comfy no matter how many times you machine wash and dry them. They won’t get scratchy and they’ll resist pilling. And the best part is that they are very affordable for all the warmth and comfort they provide.

This shopping guide will give you with an abundance of information so that you can confidently choose the best flannel sheets to meet your needs. You’ll learn what makes flannel fabric is so soft, why it feels differently than other fabrics, and what you should consider when making your selection. We’ll remind you to look into the company’s return policy and if the sheets come with a warranty. You’ll also find out how to properly take care of your flannel sheets so you can use them for years. 

Below we’ve listed what we consider to be the best flannel sheets currently on the market, along with a detailed review. Each flannel sheet set on our list will provide you with plenty of warmth and comfort while you sleep, we promise!

The Best Flannel Sheets 

Royal Hotel Cotton Flannel Sheets Review

The Royal Hotel Cotton Flannel Sheets are just like you would find in a luxury hotel. They are soft and fuzzy with the thickness and durability you would expect from a top-quality sheet set.

Royal Hotel advertises these sheets as being made of 100% natural long-staple cotton; however, they are not certified as organic as some of the other options we’ve tried. So, keep this in mind if organic products are something you want to stick with. On the other hand, these are some of the more substantial and durable sheets on the market for their 170 grams/square meter (GSM) weight. They’re also extremely soft, which increases with each washing. We found that the more we used them, the softer they got.

The Royal Hotel Cotton Flannel Sheets can be safely machine washed in cold water and tumble dried on low heat. But the washing instructions warn against using bleach, even on the white ones. This 4-piece sheet set comes with a flat top sheet, a fitted bottom sheet with an all-around elastic that fits over mattresses up to 16” thick, plus 2 pillowcases. You have a choice of 6 different colors that will easily blend with your bedroom décor.

Mellanni Cotton Flannel Sheet Set Review

In our opinion, the Mellanni Cotton Flannel Sheet Set offers consumers the most value for their money because it provides incredible quality for the price. Unlike most products, Mellanni gives customers a lifetime guarantee with “no questions asked.” You can safely try these sheets out, and if you’re not satisfied for any reason, you can return them for a full refund, so it’s a risk-free buy.

These heavy 170 GSM flannel bed sheets have been pre-washed. So, you don’t have to worry about them shrinking when machine washed with cold water and tumble dried on low heat. The fabric is stain, fade, wrinkle, and shed resistant and gets softer with every wash. The continuous elastic goes all the way around the bottom sheet, so it stays put.

The Mellanni Cotton Flannel Sheet Set has a double-nap finish on each side, giving it a luxurious velvety feel. Its warmth and softness will provide you with a good night’s sleep on cold winter nights. The bottom sheet is deep enough to fit a mattress up to 16” thick. You can choose among 10 different colors, so you shouldn’t have any problem matching your décor. The set also comes in a wide range of sizes with a flat top sheet, fitted bottom sheet, plus 2 pillowcases.

Great Bay Home Flannel Sheets Review

If you tend to get hot and sweaty at night, you may think flannel is not for you. But, that’s not necessarily the case. The Great Bay Home Flannel Sheets are very breathable, which helps to keep you cool. Plus, Turkish cotton offers the perfect balance between softness and absorbency.

Weighing 170 grams/square meter, these are perfect for year-round use. You can get them in a wide array of colored patterns, including a December frost and a mystical-looking forest. If those patterns seem too dramatic, why not try flowers or traditional plaid? With 16 different patterns and designs to choose from, you’re sure to find something you love, whether you’re male or female.

The Great Bay Home Flannel Sheets are incredibly durable, soft and breathable, moisture-wicking, machine-washable, pill, and shrink resistant. They also come at an affordable price, a 3-year warranty, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. This set has a fully elasticized fitted bottom sheet that will fit any mattress up to 17” thick and includes 1 flat top sheet, 1 fitted bottom sheet, plus 2 pillowcases. You have every reason in the world to give these a try!

Eddie Bauer Flannel Sheets Review

Eddie Bauer’s whimsical prints bring the outdoors into your bedroom with their flannel bed sheets. There are 15 different unique designs to choose from, all based on Eddie Bauer’s signature outdoor brand. Use these in your mountain cabin or at your home in the city to cheer up your bedroom. Because of so many unique outdoorsy designs, the Eddie Bauer Flannel Sheets also make wonderful Christmas gifts.

The Eddie Bauer brand is known for quality adventure wear and gear, and this carries through to all the other products in their line. Their sheets are especially unique as they’re meant to be layered. This way, you can control how warm or cool you want to be at night by adding or removing them when the temperature fluctuates. The Eddie Bauer Flannel Sheets are incredibly soft and moisture-wicking after undergoing an 8-step brushing process that also keeps them from pilling.

The fitted bottom sheet has an elastic all around, so it fits snugly and doesn’t slip off the mattress. The pockets are deeper than most, fitting mattresses up to 18” thick, which covers practically all mattresses. With every wash, they become softer and more comfortable. For a much cozier home, why not try a set of ultra-soft uniquely printed sheets from Eddie Bauer?

Pointehaven Printed Flannel Sheet Set Review

The Pointehaven Printed Flannel Sheet Set takes you back to the disco days of the ‘70s. Using the color schemes of chocolate brown, shades of green and sunburst patterns, you’ll be transported back in time. Or, if you’re in a fun, playful mood, you can sleep on a chocolate giraffe print - these sheets are designed to express your personality.

The Pointehaven set is double brushed for extra softness and warmth on cold winter nights. Use it at home or when you’re camping in your RV, and you’ll fall asleep convinced that you could never go back to ordinary bed sheets again. These really are a great purchase, not only for the fun vibe they give off but also for offering quality at an affordable price.

The Pointehaven Printed Flannel Sheet Set is purposely made a bit larger to accommodate the shrinking that often occurs with cotton. The European style pillow enclosure adds some elegance to your décor while preventing your pillow from coming out of its case during the night. The fully elasticized fitted bottom sheet will fit a mattress up to 16” thick and will stay in place. Some users claim that pilling does occur after washing, but if you don’t consider this any big deal, this set can add a lot of fun and flair to your bedroom décor at a very reasonable price.

Whisper Organics Organic Cotton Flannel Sheets Review

If you recycle your plastics, carry reusable grocery bags, and ask for paperless receipts, you can even do more for the planet. The Whisper Organics Organic Cotton Flannel Sheets are made of 100% sustainable organic cotton flannel. Certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), they are a quality product you won’t regret purchasing.

At 170 grams/square meter weight, these bed sheets are double brushed on both sides for incredible softness and warmth on cold nights. Another great feature is that they’re hypoallergenic since no artificial dyes have been used in the manufacturing process. If you are sensitive to chemicals, these are definitely worth a try.

Keeping with the organic theme, they come in four colors: white, natural, dark grey, and aubergine (a.k.a. eggplant). Simplicity is often better, which is the case with the Whisper Organics Organic Cotton Flannel Sheets. The set includes a flat top sheet, a fitted bottom sheet that fits a mattress of up to 15” thick, and 2 pillowcases. Whisper Organics offers a 90-day satisfaction guarantee, so if you are dissatisfied with their product, you can return it within 90 days and receive a full refund.

Pinzon Velvet Flannel Bed Sheet Set Review

The Pinzon Velvet Flannel Bed Sheet Set is our pick for the best heavyweight option. These ultra-soft sheets are reasonably priced for the incredible quality and comfort they provide. However, if you have a twin or full-sized mattress, skip ahead, because these are only available for queen-sized mattresses and larger.

If you’re looking for a heavier flannel sheet set, these might be perfect, weighing 190 grams/square meter (GSM). They will give you the warmth and coziness you may be seeking for cold, crisp nights. The Pinzon are made of high-quality 100% cotton imported from Portugal. Manufactured in an OEKO-TEX Standard 100 factory, the product meets the highest environmental and safety standards.

Their ultra-soft feel that makes it hard to get out of bed in the morning comes from the double-napped cotton flannel. Moreover, the cotton undergoes a combing process, so the fibers are parallel to each other, creating a much stronger fabric. This also removes any short or uneven fibers as well as any debris that could weaken the yarn or compromise its softness. Combed yarn tends to be longer, and more sought after for its durability, ultra-smooth feel, and lustrous appearance.

The Pinzon Velvet Flannel Bed Sheet Set comes in a wide array of patterns and colors, some more interesting than others. Among them, there are three unique floral patterns, including the Floral Graphite option, which tends to appeal to both men and women. The set is machine-washable and dryable, so it's very easy to keep clean. With the Pinzon, you get a flat top sheet, a fitted bottom sheet, plus 2 standard pillowcases. The flat sheet and pillowcases have a 4” hem on them. The fitted sheet will fit a mattress of up to 17” thick.

Boll & Branch Organic Cotton Flannel Sheets Review

The Boll & Branch Organic Cotton Flannel Sheets specialize in 100% organic bedding made of long-staple cotton, which is the best you can get. Being the most luxurious choice, these bed sheets are ultra-soft, lightweight, durable, organic, eco-friendly, and non-exploitive.

Made of long-staple cotton, these are not only stronger and more durable, but also much softer than many other options. Because they’re single ply, the fabric is light and soft. To make them even softer, the fabric undergoes an 8-step finishing process, including buffing and heating. The 7” hem adds elegance to this classic sheet set. The fitted bottom sheet with extra-deep pockets fits mattresses up to 17” thick.

The 300-thread count cotton makes the Boll & Branch light and breathable. Many people shopping for flannel are looking for something dense to provide plenty of warmth on cold nights. But, if you are looking for highly durable sheets that are also soft, breathable, and light, these would be perfect.

With the Boll & Branch Organic Cotton Flannel Sheets, you have a choice of 5 neutral colors, which will easily blend with your décor. Because they GOTS certified and made of organic cotton, you can be sure they’re non-toxic and chemical-free, including the dyes. They can safely be used by everyone in your family.

Furthermore, the Boll & Branch are Fair Trade Certified. The factory workers in India, where these sheets are made, are paid three times the industry standard. The company believes that being eco-friendly is important, but being human-friendly is vital. This set comes with a flat top sheet, a fitted bottom sheet, 2 pillowcases plus its own reusable laundry bag. White, ivory, and natural colored sheets can be machine washed in warm water. The brighter colors can also be machine washed but in cold water. You can safely tumble dry them on medium heat and iron them if you want a crisp look.

History of Flannel

Flannel fabric originated in Scotland and Wales in the 14^th Century. In those days the most prized yarn was fine, heavy, smooth wool. They brushed to detangle the wool (a process called carding) to smooth it out as much as possible, which allowed it to be woven more tightly. 

The result was a heavy, very warm fabric, which was extremely important because in those days there was no such thing as central heating. Flannel fabric was originally made into warm clothing and eventually it started being used for blankets and sheets. 

From Scotland and Wales, flannel’s popularity spread in the Industrial Revolution. This was when carding mills were established, which could turn wool into flannel far more efficiently. When flannel began production in the U.S., cotton replaced wool as the fiber of choice for flannel. 

Lumberjacks, fisherman and soldiers alike started wearing flannel shirts, often in colorful plaids, which became the signature look of the working class. In the 1950s flannel went mainstream when high-end men’s suits started being made in flannel.  

In time, manufacturers started making flannel with synthetic yarn rather than wool or cotton. Today, a blend of all three of these yarns is being used to make flannel sheets. Unlike other sheets, the quality of flannel sheets has nothing to do with thread count, but based on texture, weave and weight, which is measured in grams/square meter or GSM. 

Benefits of Flannel Sheets

Many who own flannel sheets use them primarily during the cold winter months, but this is not a hard and fast rule. When you use them depends on which type of flannel sheets you own and what other types of bedding you routinely sleeping with. Just make sure that whatever you pair these with makes you comfortable. I would avoid piling thick blankets and comforters on top of flannel sheets because that would just be overdoing it. You’d end up being too hot!

The primary benefits of using flannel sheets are as follows: 

Soft & Comfy

The best flannel sheets have a brushed nap on one or both sides, which makes them extremely soft. When the nap is brushed it raises the fibers on the surface, giving it a soft plush feel. Flannel sheets are great for people with sensitive skin and/or those who love a nice soft sleeping surface. 

Extra Warmth

The reason flannel is so soft and warm is due to how it’s made. A heavy base fabric is passed over massive steel cylinders with thousands of metal teeth poking out in what’s called a “napping” process. These teeth work to pull huge numbers of short fibers from the fabric to make millions of air pockets that form an insulating barrier. The napping process also creates the soft fuzzy surface that flannel is known for and what makes it so warm and comfy. 

When you’re sleeping between flannel sheets, those tiny air pockets pull in and retain your body heat, which helps you keep warm at night. Even when you get up out of bed, those air pockets continue retaining the warmth they pulled in. This is why you instantly feel warm when you crawl into bed and why you stay warm throughout the night. 

Breathability

Some people think flannel sheets trap too much heat, causing you to get hot and sweaty during the night. However, one of the main benefits of sleeping with flannel sheets is that they are breathable as well. While keeping you warm, they do not trap moisture, so you won’t get hot and sweaty. Natural fibers like flannel absorb moisture and wick it away. This means you benefit from the warmth flannel sheets provide without having to deal with excess heat and/or dampness. 

Improved Breathing

Did you know that staying warm by sleeping with flannel sheets is healthier for you than turning up the heat at night? Hot air blowing around inside has a way of drying out the nasal passages and throat, which makes you more apt to catch a cold. When you refrain from keeping the heat on all night long, you keep the air inside sterile. And as a bonus, you’ll see your heating bill go down!

Pain Relief

Finally, flannel sheets are wonderful for senior citizens, especially those suffering from arthritis. It does them no good to have cold joints because that makes the body tense up, which increases the soreness. Sleeping with high-quality flannel sheets will eliminate the chill, keep the joints loose and lessen the pain. The result is an overall improvement in health.  

Long-Lasting Durability

The best flannel sheets are very tightly woven, which is why they’re so warm, but this tight weave also makes them very durable. Well-made flannel sheets can easily last years if they’re properly taken care of according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. 

The double-sided napping keeps them from tearing or weakening with each wash. The outer fuzz prevents any abrasion from the flannel rubbing together causing friction. Being so thick, flannel doesn’t tear very easily, which also helps these sheets last long. Flannel is one of the most durable and long-lasting fabrics out there, especially if it’s made with a fine yarn. This is why flannel sheet sets are an excellent investment. 

Offer Good Value

When you buy flannel sheets you are getting good value for your money. Because these sheets are so durable and long-lasting, they are definitely worth the price. In fact, they are far less expensive than many other premium sheets being sold in the marketplace. The price of flannel sheets depends on their weight. The higher the grams/square meter (GSM), the higher the price and the opposite holds true as well. This way everyone can find a flannel sheet set that they can afford. 

How to Choose the Perfect Flannel Sheets

Trying to find the best flannel sheets to meet your needs takes a little more effort than just reading the labels. There is a lot of variation in the materials these sheets are made of how they perform. Some brands produce better sheets than others, so it’s important to read verified reviews from actual users. 

Here are some of the things you’ll want to consider when shopping: 

Types of Flannel 

There are variations in the quality and feel of flannel, so you need to first consider the base material. We’ve already discussed the fact that flannel sheets can be made of wool, cotton, synthetic fabrics, or a blend. Understanding the difference in how each one performs is vital because these materials all feel and sleep differently. 

Wool 

Flannel sheets made of wool can be difficult to find. They’re expensive and often have to be custom made because wool flannel sheets are not much in demand. If you like the heaviness wool bedding, you’ll have better luck finding wool mattress pads, blankets and duvet covers. 

Cotton 

Cotton flannel is relatively thick, more than micro or synthetic flannel. This is why cotton flannel holds it shape so well and allows your skin more room to breathe. If you would rather not sleep on synthetic sheets all night long, select a cotton flannel sheet set instead. This is a drier feeling material that will help you feel more comfortable throughout the night. 

As we’ve discussed, cotton can absorb a lot of water while wicking away moisture. If you tend to get hot and sweaty at night, the best flannel sheets for you would be made of cotton. These would also be around 25% heavier than micro or synthetic flannel. This provides a weightier feel that can often lead to a better night’s sleep. Lastly, if you’re seeking an authentic, more luxurious feeling flannel, your best bet is cotton flannel. 

Be cautious though because there are cheaply made cotton flannel sheets that can feel scratchy to the skin. Poor-quality flannel sheets that cost less are made of a heavy base fabric with thick yarns to add on weight. To avoid this problem, make sure that you select flannel sheets that are made of high-quality cotton. You also need to take good care of them according to manufacturer instructions and plan on replacing them every few years. 

You should also know that most cotton flannel sheets will shrink 8% - 11% in the wash. But this is nothing to worry about because the manufacturer cuts flannel sheets so they are oversized and can accommodate this amount of shrinkage. After three washes there shouldn’t be any more shrinkage and they should fit your mattress perfectly. Even though some cotton flannel sheets are pre-shrunk, they will still shrink to a certain extent. In fact, pre-shrunk cotton flannel sheets are not recommended because they’ve undergone chemical treatments and will not be as soft or absorbent.

Micro or Synthetic 

When you compare cotton flannel with micro or synthetic flannel, the synthetic flannel feels softer due to the microfiber yarns used. Microfiber yarn consists of many millions of very thin polyester filaments, which give the sheets a smooth velvety feel. People with sensitive or overly dry skin often love the ultra-soft feel of micro flannel sheets and prefer them over cotton flannel. 

Natural cotton fabrics do not consist of as many fibers as synthetic fabrics. And, due to the fact that this material is manmade, most micro flannel sheets are less expensive than cotton flannel sheets. Synthetic polyester fibers are quite strong and highly durable, so micro flannel sheets should last you longer than cotton flannel sheets. Furthermore, micro flannel retains it softness a lot longer as well. 

Another advantage micro flannel has over cotton is that this type of flannel shrinks less and is easier to maintain. Compared to cotton, synthetics tend to shed a lot less lint, synthetics also dry faster and are more stain resistant than cotton fabrics. So, if you have active children who get messy at times, the best flannel sheets for you and your family might be micro flannel. 

Furthermore, if you are on a budget, or are looking for the easiest flannel sheet sets to take care of, micro flannel may again be your best bet. And, you may be interested to know that micro flannel does not produce any electrostatic activity, which can’t be said for cotton flannel. So, micro flannel sheets do not repel pets. Sometimes when climbing into a bed with cotton flannel sheets, you can see or feel sparks from electrostatic activity, and these can shock and/or scare off your pets. 

One of the drawbacks of microfibers is they tend to lose their shape because the microfilaments they are made of are very fine and pliable. Micro or synthetic flannel sheets tend to drape the body close to the skin, which means your perspiration will transfer onto the polyester filaments. So, micro flannel sheets will feel much stickier than cotton flannel sheets that absorb sweat. 

Also, if you tend to apply a lot of lotion and/or moisturizer before bedtime, micro flannel sheets may not work well for you because the lotion would likely accumulate on the surface of the sheets. This would collapse and clog the insulating air pockets, causing the sheets to feel sticky. Be careful to avoid buying extremely cheap micro flannel sheets because they’ll probably be way too flimsy and thin to last very long.  

Blend

Some of the best flannel sheets are made of a cotton/synthetic polyester blend. Weaving the two together results in the softness and warmth of cotton flannel with the added durability and easier care specifications that a synthetic material provides. 

If you’re seeking an all-natural flannel sheet set, pay attention to the product specifications spelled out on the label. Also, you can’t assume that all-natural cotton means that it’s organic. All natural just means that the fibers are derived from a plant. Organic means the material was grown and produced without the use of harmful herbicides, pesticides and/or other toxic chemicals. 

Quality & Characteristics

Weight

Most people who are used to buying quality cotton sheets, consider thread count as a major factor. However, thread count is not at all important when it comes to flannel sheets. How heavy the sheets are is what matters, their grams/square meter or GSM. 

Aside from weight, GSM is an indication of durability and the quality of the flannel itself. For context, a 130-135 GSM is considered lightweight. This might be just right for those who want thin, breathable sheets. On the other hand, the GSM can suggest a lower-quality flannel, depending on which fabric it’s made of. For example, a micro synthetic flannel with a low GSM is usually less durable. 

A flannel sheet set with a GSM of 140-150 is medium weight and this can work well in all 4 seasons of the year. And flannel sheets with a GSM of 160 and up is heavy and just what you need on cold winter nights. If you carefully read the labels on flannel, you’ll likely find the GSM, but it may not be exactly spelled out. If this is the case look for the words lightweight, medium weight or heavyweight.

Yarn

Again, heavier does not necessarily mean high quality. In fact, flannel sheets can be too heavy and that actually indicates poor quality. In this case the flannel was made with thick yarns, which are hard to nap. Look closely and if the individual yarns are visible on flannel sheets, the fabric is definitely not a good quality well-napped flannel. Rather than feeling nice and warm in bed, you will feel as if you’re sleeping between two burlap sacks. 

A set of fine flannel sheets is more expensive, but it will be a lot softer having been made with high-end napping machines using a lighter touch. Also, fine flannel is woven with longer fibers that make it stronger and more durable. Some brands create a smoother surface, so the flannel is softer and less apt to pill, and this is done by trimming the raised fibers. 

Finish

While shopping for flannel sheets you’ll come across the terms “napped” and “double-napped.” These describe the type of finishing technique used on the surface to create the plushy fuzzy feel that make flannel bedding so special. This is done by going over the fabric with a metal brushing tool, raising the fibers. 

The term “napped” tells you that only one side has been brushed, whereas “double-napped” tells you that both sides have gone through the process of being brushed. Sheets that are double napped are the best flannel sheets because they not only have a soft velvety feel on both sides, they feel more balanced as well.

Some of the more luxurious flannel sheets sets are made with a flannel fabric that has undergone a shearing process after being napped. This makes the surface less fuzzy because some it has been cut off, creating a much smoother finish. 

Country Where Produced

Flannel sheets are mainly produced in Portugal, Germany and England, with the best flannel sheets coming out of Portugal, according to many. This is because the Portuguese are experts at crafting the finest flannel, having done this for many generations. Their artisans design flannel using long-staple cotton and superior napping techniques that produce incredibly warm, soft sheets. 

Coming in second after Portugal, Germany is also known for producing superior flannel sheets. German flannel is more densely woven, creating a sturdier fabric in contrast to the very fine flannel that the Portuguese produce. 

English flannel sheets are not nearly as sought after as those produced in Portugal and Germany, but they do have somewhat of a nap and can be relied on for their durability. 

Size & Fit

You can usually find flannel sheets in these sizes: Twin, Twin XL (Extra-Long), Full, Full XL, Queen, King, and California King. However, some brands offer sheets in a Split-King size that fit adjustable beds.

For the best fit look for a flannel sheet set with a fully elasticized fitted bottom sheet. This will ensure that it stays in place and doesn’t slip and slide during the night. Sheets made these days typically have deep pockets so they can fit over thick mattresses. However, if your mattress is extra thick or you have a mattress pad or topper, it would be smart to verify that the sheets will fit your mattress. 

Flame Retardants

If the flannel sheets you’re considering have had a flame retardant applied to them, you’ll be able to smell it when using them. The best flannel sheets have NOT been treated with flame retardants and are completely chemical free. Make sure this is spelled out on the label. You do not want you or your family subjected to the health risks associated with an exposure to chemicals from the sheets you’re sleeping on every night. 

Warranty & Return Policy

When a product comes with a warranty it protects the buyer from product failure and manufacturing defects. Return policies describe what the company will do for customers who are dissatisfied with their product. Make sure you find out whether your flannel sheets come with any type of warranty and what the company’s return policies are before buying. If you’re shopping on a site like Amazon, find out what their policies are as well. 

If you’ve never slept on flannel sheets before and have no idea whether you’d like them or not, buy from a brand that offers a sleep trial. Brands selling some of the best flannel sheets allow customers a generous return policy. You can buy the sheets, test them out in your home and if you don’t like them, you just return them. Would you get a full refund or just the right to an even exchange? These are the questions you want to ask upfront. 

Some brands only allow a return if the sheets have a manufacturer’s defect or come with runs, snags or with unsewn parts of the hem. Research these policies before buying!

Pattern & Color

Many people think of “plaid” being “flannel,” but this is a misnomer. Plaid is the type of pattern often seen on men’s flannel shirts, whereas flannel is a type of fabric. Having said that, flannel sheet sets often come in a plaid pattern and other patterns as well. But if you would rather have solid colored flannel sheets, you can find them in white and a variety of other colors.  

For a lot of people, plaid flannel sheets evoke a more rustic aesthetic that gives them a cozy look that matches how they feel. If you like plaid, you will be happy to know that you can find flannel sheet sets in many different styles of plaid. These plaids include Tartan, which came from Scotland; Glen, which is often used for men’s suits; and Windowpane, which looks like actual window panes. 

But your main priority should be warmth and comfort. Aesthetics are important, but we recommend that you buy flannel sheets that you think will enhance your sleep, and not put looks over comfort. 

Read the reviews online to find out what users think about the sheets and find out about the brand’s reputation before buying. You want to make sure you’re getting well-made flannel sheets and not just a pretty-looking flannel sheet set. Also, keep in mind that dark-colored sheets have been subjected to heavier dyes, will likely fade, and may not look as good as neutral-colored sheets over time. 

Price

You’ll see flannel sheet sets in all price ranges. They are typically priced according to the materials they’re made of and the type of finish they have. For example, due to their rarity wool flannel is more expensive than micro or synthetic flannel made from polyester. Napped and double-napped sheets tend to be more expensive, as do sheared sheets. To get the most for your money compare prices across several different brands. 

Flannel vs. Fleece

You’re probably reading this article because you seem to always be cold in bed at night, no matter what the weather is like outside. If this is the case, you’re clearly trying to find some sheets that will keep you warm.

Which would be best, flannel or fleece? 

Fleece has a nice smooth surface. It’s a man-made synthetic material, usually made of polyester threads, which are wrapped around one another and woven together. This produces a thicker, more stretchy fabric than flannel. 

On the other hand, much of the flannel being made today comes from cotton, which ends up being loosely woven and brushed so that it feels lightweight, soft and comfy against the skin. 

So, if you’re trying to find sheets that will keep you extremely warm and not worried about sweating in bed, fleece sheets may be perfect. They’re also fairly durable and don’t require a lot of maintenance. 

However, synthetic materials of all kinds are increasingly becoming an environmental problem, especially for our oceans. This may be something you may want to think about if you’re seriously considering fleece sheets or even a blend, which would be cotton and a micro synthetic or polyester.

Cotton flannel bed sheets are made of all-natural materials and without any harmful chemicals. They offer plenty of warmth, but because they’re breathable you won’t wake up hot and sweaty. However, flannel sheets do require more care than fleece sheets, and with proper care they can last for years. 

Tips for Getting the Most out of Your Flannel Bed Sheets

In mildly cold weather, pull a woolen blanket over your flannel sheets for added warmth. When it’s freezing cold outside, add a thick down comforter. 

When it warms up a bit in spring and as summer approaches, pair plain cotton percale sheets with flannel sheets for an ultra-soft covering that isn’t too warm. 

Taking Care of Flannel Sheets

Flannel sheets become even warmer, softer and fuzzier after they’ve been washed a few times. When flannel sheet sets are packed up at the factory for shipping, the packaging flattens out the fibers. Washing them loosens up the fibers and they come back to life, and become fluffy again!

Washing 

Machine wash in cold water for only 20 minutes on medium spin. Using hot water can cause them to shrink and lose their softness in time, while encouraging pilling. 

When washing your flannel sheets for the first time, add ½ cup of white vinegar. This reduces the risk of pilling and the tiny bumps making the sheets a bit rough. The vinegar can also help them retain their color. Don’t worry, the vinegar leaves no smell. 

Rather than pouring in a laundry softener, you toss a couple of tennis balls in with them when you put your flannel sheets in the dryer. This keeps them soft by reducing clumping, which can cause pilling.

Note: People disagree on using fabric softener when laundering flannel sheets. Some claim that the fabric softener leaves chemicals behind that can stiffen the fabric, which would reduce softness. They also say that it increases pilling. Consider this before using laundry softener on flannel sheets.

Drying 

It’s important that you not over-dry flannel sheets. 

When bedding is tossing around in the dryer, the fabric is constantly rubbing up against itself. This abrasive contact can cause pilling. If flannel sheets get too dry in the dryer, there is too little water left to cushion the contact, which is what causes them to pill. 

We recommend that you remove your flannel sheets from the dryer when they are still damp. They can finish drying on the bed if it is early enough in the day and nothing is laid over them. By the time you’re ready for bed they will be completely dry. Doing this also reduces wrinkles. 

Make sure you clean out the lint filter on your dryer before tossing in your flannel sheets. And clean the filter again when you remove the sheets. 

Caution: Do not toss anything else in the dryer with your cotton flannel sheets. When your sheets rub up against other types of fabric, the sensitive fibers in flannel get all roughed up. In fact, your denim jeans in the dryer with your flannel sheets would be enough to damage them, even without the zipper.

5 Common Misconceptions About Flannel Sheets

“Flannel sheets are great when you first crawl into bed, but soon you’re a hot sweaty mess.” 

If you get too hot in bed with your flannel sheets, one or more of the following could be why: 

The blanket and/or comforter on your bed is too heavy or thick. You wouldn’t feel any cooler with plain cotton sheets under these circumstances. Switch to a lighter weight blanket and/or comforter. 

You bought micro or synthetic flannel sheets. You need to get a cotton flannel sheet set instead so your skin can breathe. 

You may be using poor quality cotton flannel sheets. Replace those with high-quality cotton flannel sheets so your skin can breathe, and you won’t get hot. 

You may be suffering from night sweats. If this is the case, sleeping with specialized plain cotton sheets should solve the problem. 

“Flannel sheets can last you a lifetime. They stay soft forever, so they never need replacing.”

Flannel sheets may seem like they’re lasting forever because they’re made of fine cotton fibers. But after a number of years they lose their air pockets, which is what’s needed to make you instantly feel warm.

People who continually make their bed with the same flannel sheets year-after-year often have to be persuaded to buy new ones. When they crawl into bed with the new ones, they can hardly believe the instant warmth they feel. 

The truth is that you never know what you could be missing until you break an old habit. This is especially true if you’ve resisted trading your old sheets in for a new flannel sheet set. 

“Microfiber sheets, fleece sheets, and jersey sheets are all warmer and cheaper than flannel.”

Microfiber sheets may be soft and cheap, but they are not breathable and offer little warmth. This is because they are made of man-made synthetic fibers. 

Fleece sheets are also soft and cheap, but like microfiber sheets they don’t let your skin breathe and they’re not very warm either. They may seem like a bargain because they’re so bulky for the price but forget being warm or even comfortable because they’re not breathable. 

Just like the others above, jersey sheets are soft and cheap because this is a knit fabric, the kind that t-shirts are made of. Jersey sheets may be just as soft as cotton flannel sheets, but they will not keep you warm. 

“Flannel sheets are not worth spending money on because you can only use them in winter.” 

Flannel sheets have traditionally been reserved for use during the cold winter months. But today’s flannel sheets can be comfortably used throughout all four seasons, in cold weather and warm. 

Tip: If you’re using heavy flannel sheets in the spring and summer months, you might place cotton percale sheets over them. This keeps them soft, while reducing the warmth a little. Otherwise, switch to lighter weight flannel sheets during warmer months. 

“You can’t find plain flannel sheets, just plaid. You have to settle for plaid or forget flannel.” 

This was actually true until the recent past. But now you can find flannel sheets in a variety of colors and other patterns besides plaid. This is especially true if you’re shopping for micro flannel sheets. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do flannel sheets have any drawbacks?

You will notice your flannel sheets shedding lint: No matter which type of fabric they’re made of, they shed lint. During manufacturing, flannel undergoes a brushing process in which tiny excess fibers are detached from the fabric but not fully removed. These will shed off as lint in the initial few washes, filling up the lint filter in the dryer. A good 80% of these shed off during the very first wash. 

Flannel sheets tend to pill more than standard sheets: If you don’t know what pills are, they are tiny rough balls that can accumulate on the surface of fabrics. These come from the tiny loose fuzzy fibers sticking out. When they are rubbed against, they ball up, so if you toss and turn a lot during the night, or you leave your flannel sheets in the dryer too long, you may notice some pilling. The best flannel sheets do not pill nearly as much as poor-quality ones.  

Does thread count determine quality in flannel sheets?

As opposed to plain cotton sheets, thread count does not indicate the quality of flannel sheets. What determines softness and quality in flannel sheets is weight. When reading the label or description on flannel sheets, the weight will be shown as grams/per square meter or GSM. If you see a rating of 170 GSM or more, or they weigh at least 5 oz., these sheets will not only keep you warm, they will also last a good long time. 

Are flannel sheets always plaid?

No, this is a common misconception. 

Flannel is a type of fabric, whereas plaid is a type of pattern. In decades past flannel sheets almost always came in a plaid pattern. But those days are long gone, and you can find flannel sheets in plain colors and in other patterns besides plaid. 

Do flannel sheets make you too warm?

There is no question about the fact that flannel sheets provide a lot of warmth. However, the best flannel sheets are breathable and wick away moisture, so that you don’t get too hot while sleeping.

Cotton flannel sheets keep you warmer than plain cotton sheets. This is because your skin is able to breath a whole lot better than if you were sleeping on synthetic fabrics like fleece. The brushed surface on flannel helps to keep your body heat and air from being trapped. 

What weight should I look for in flannel sheets?

Weight in flannel sheets is measured in either grams/square meter (GSM) or in ounces, which we discussed earlier. For optimal warmth and durability, you may want 170 GSM or more, or sheets that weigh at least 5 oz. But if you naturally tend to get hot and sweaty at night, you may want to look for a lighter weight flannel sheet set. 

Is flannel made out of wool?

Back in the 16^th Century, flannel fabric was made out of wool. But wool is scarcely used for flannel today and instead flannel is made of cotton, or synthetic materials like polyester and others. 

How long can I expect my flannel sheets to last?

What determines how long your flannel bed sheets last depends on their quality and how you’re washing them. If you follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, your sheets should last you for many years. Make sure you wash your flannel sheets in cold water and do not let them get over-dried in the dryer. Tumble dry them on gentle and on a low heat setting. Take them out when they’re still damp and let them air dry the rest of the way. To avoid washing them too often, you might want to buy several flannel sheet sets and rotate them. 

Conclusion

I hope this guide gave you the information you need to find the right flannel sheet set to best suit your needs. So, before deciding which to buy keep in mind that there are different types of fabrics that flannel is made of, with different characteristics that impact the sheets. Flannel sheets also come in different weights, yarn, finishes, patterns, colors and more. Take your time and find a brand that allows a trial period. This way you can sleep on them at home and if you’re dissatisfied, you can return them.