Cotton has long reigned as the king of bedding—but is it still the best choice today? With options like bamboo, microfiber, linen, and even silk competing for attention, many shoppers wonder: Is a bed sheet in cotton really worth the investment?
At Northern Feather, we’ve been designing bedding for over 100 years, and we’ve seen trends come and go. But cotton remains one of the most trusted materials for people who want soft, breathable, and durable bedding that gets better with age.
Let’s dig into why cotton continues to earn its place—and how it stacks up against other popular fabrics.
What Makes Cotton Sheets a Standout?
Cotton is naturally breathable, hypoallergenic, and absorbent. It helps regulate your body temperature, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. But the real magic is in how it feels: soft from day one, and even softer over time.
At Northern Feather, our cotton sheets are made from high-quality, long-staple cotton—meaning the fibers are longer and stronger, resulting in smoother sheets that resist pilling.
👉 Browse our Bed Linens Collection → Bed Linens
Cotton vs. Bamboo: Natural But Not Equal
Bamboo sheets are praised for being silky and eco-friendly. But here’s what most people don’t realize: many bamboo sheets are rayon-based—meaning the bamboo is chemically processed into fabric. That process can be harsh on the environment.
Cotton, especially when sustainably sourced, skips that step. It’s a natural fiber from start to finish, with a more familiar, matte feel and a texture that softens rather than slinks.
👉 Want long-lasting softness without compromise? Check out our Fairmont Collection → Fairmont Collection
Cotton vs. Microfiber: Breathability Matters
Microfiber is made of finely woven synthetic fibers—usually polyester. It’s budget-friendly and wrinkle-resistant, which can make it attractive. But it traps heat. If you sleep hot, microfiber can turn your bed into a sauna.
Cotton, on the other hand, allows airflow. It’s ideal for hot sleepers, kids, and anyone who values a cool, dry sleep surface.
👉 Sleep cooler with breathable cotton sheets → Shop Bed Linens
Cotton vs. Linen: Comfort vs. Texture
Linen has gained popularity for its airy feel and boho look—but it’s not for everyone. Linen is coarser and requires a longer break-in period. It’s also prone to wrinkles.
Cotton is smoother, easier to care for, and doesn’t require ironing. It gives you that fresh, clean hotel bed feel—night after night.
👉 Prefer smooth over scratchy? See our cotton sheet sets → Bed Linens Collection
Cotton vs. Silk: Price and Practicality
Silk is luxurious, no doubt. But it’s expensive, delicate, and can easily stain or snag. Most families—and even luxury hotels—choose cotton for its balance of comfort, care, and cost.
High-quality cotton gives you a touch of luxury without the fragility.
👉 Experience premium cotton in our top-rated collections → Fairmont Collection
What Type of Cotton Is Best?
All cotton is not created equal. Look for long-staple cotton (like Egyptian or Supima) for the best blend of softness and durability. These longer fibers produce smoother threads that resist wear.
Northern Feather selects only premium long-staple cottons for our collections—ensuring your sheets stay soft and strong after years of washing.
👉 Discover the difference premium cotton makes → Shop Bed Linens
Who Should Choose Cotton Sheets?
Cotton sheets are great for:
- Hot sleepers
- People with sensitive skin or allergies
- Anyone who values natural, breathable fabric
- Homeowners who want easy care and long-lasting comfort
If you’ve tried other materials and always come back to cotton—it’s no accident. Your body knows what feels good.
👉 Ready to upgrade your sleep? Shop breathable cotton sheets today → Bed Linens
What the Fairmont Hotel Taught Us About Cotton Bedding
Northern Feather supplies top-tier hotels like the Fairmont with premium bedding—and what guests rave about most is the cotton.
Why? Because it’s soft, breathable, and inviting. Guests sleep better. They feel pampered. And they want the same experience at home.
That’s why we offer the Fairmont Collection—to give you the same 5-star feel.
👉 Bring hotel luxury home → Explore Fairmont Bedding
Care Tips: How to Make Your Cotton Sheets Last
To get the most from your bed sheet in cotton, follow these care tips:
- Wash in cold or warm water (never hot)
- Avoid fabric softeners—they coat the fibers and reduce softness
- Tumble dry on low and remove promptly
- Store in a cool, dry place
Cotton gets better over time, so treat it right—and it’ll reward you with years of great sleep.
👉 Ready to refresh your bedding rotation? See our full cotton collection → Bed Linens
Final Thoughts: Are Cotton Sheets Still Worth It?
Absolutely. In a world full of synthetic blends and trendy fabrics, the humble cotton sheet continues to win for good reason.
When you choose Northern Feather, you’re not just buying sheets—you’re investing in breathable sleep, natural comfort, and hotel-grade quality that lasts.
👉 Explore our curated cotton bedding collections now → Bed Linens Collection
Q&A Section
Q: Are cotton bed sheets better for sensitive skin? A: Yes. Cotton is hypoallergenic, natural, and free from irritating synthetics, making it a great choice for sensitive skin.
Q: Do cotton sheets wrinkle more than microfiber? A: Yes, but they also breathe better and feel more luxurious. A quick tumble dry or light ironing solves most wrinkles.
Q: How often should I replace cotton sheets? A: With proper care, high-quality cotton sheets from Northern Feather can last 5–7 years or more.
Q: What thread count is best for cotton sheets? A: Look for 200–400 thread count. It strikes the right balance of softness and durability without sacrificing breathability.
Q: How do I prevent my cotton sheets from pilling? A: Always wash them on a gentle cycle, avoid high heat, and skip fabric softeners. Long-staple cotton resists pilling better than short-staple varieties.
Ready to Sleep Like You’re on Vacation?
At Northern Feather Canada, we don’t just make bedding — we craft experiences. From the signature Fairmont pillow to breathable 100% cotton linens made for Canadian climates, every product is engineered for long-lasting comfort, elegance, and rest you’ll remember.
Whether you’re refreshing your guest room or upgrading your own sleep sanctuary, trust the same brand loved by luxury hotels across North America.
✨ Shop the collection that hotels trust and Canadians love.
🛒 Browse premium bedding now
