'Cotton tends to be the most popular material for bed sheets, boasting both durability and comfort, but there is a distinct variation in quality, so it pays to do your research,' says Wayfair's resident style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill.

In the practical sense, the Duvet Cover protects your duvet and is easily removed and cared for. In the decorative sense, the most dynamic bedding fabrics are available as “top of bed” duvet covers and shams; it is the quintessential “star of the show,” and sets the tone for the overall look of your bed.

Depth of Your Mattress

Linen vs Cotton for Cooling

Along with your duvet, pillow and mattress, the bed linen that you choose will have a big impact on how your bed feels and how you sleep. As your sheets, duvet cover and pillowcase are against your skin every night, it’s important to think about what kind of bed linen will give you the best night's sleep. There are, after all, many bed linen types.

First of all, because linen’s flax fibers are slightly longer than those of cotton and wrapped a little tighter, linen sheets are stronger which means they will last much longer. If softness is a factor for you, you may want to consider cotton, though. Flax fibers are much rougher than cotton resulting in slightly crisper fabric. But the great thing about linen is that it gets softer after each wash, so essentially it gets better with time.

'Bamboo has similar benefits to sateen,' says Bed, Bath & Beyond. 'It provides a silky smooth sensation and tends to be cooler to the touch than cotton. However, bamboo tends to be more expensive and requires more careful cleaning.'

Linen bed sheets are less explored, which explains why there are fewer types of linen bedding on the market. The highest quality linen lies along the world-renowned Western Europe flax belt - crossing through Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. The climate along this belt is optimal for growing and harvesting flax, bringing about the Belgium and French Linen we hear of today.

However, polyester isn’t generally a highly-prized material for bedding because it isn’t as soft or breathable as other materials. Pure polyester sheets are likely to feel somewhat scratchy or low quality. However, polyester is commonly used in fabric blends with natural materials like cotton, which can make them more affordable.

The world of premium bedding is rich with choices, each promising a unique blend of comfort, style, and luxury. The choice of fitted sheets vs. flat sheets, while seemingly simple, touches upon the core of what makes a bed truly inviting. It's not just about aesthetics or ease of use; it's about the experience each sheet offers. By understanding the qualities of fitted and flat sheets, you're not just making a bedding choice; you're investing in countless nights of restful sleep.