The Best Editor-Tested Organic Sheets You Can Buy Right Now
High-quality bedding is meant to stay with you for years, which is why it’s so important to consider not only the quality of your bedding but also how it’s made. Believe it or not, some sheets have to go through chemical treatments in the production process to achieve their texture and feel, but those aren’t the only options you have. It’s possible to get a great piece of bedding without the treatments, and certified organic sheets are, without a doubt, one of the best ways to achieve it — both for the health of our skin and the environment.
Navigating the wide, somewhat convoluted world of organic textiles can make finding the right set daunting. Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you, found out what matters when it comes to organic bedding, and tested a wide range of brands and sheets. Below are the best organic sheets you can find, vetted by our editors. Looking for a more comprehensive guide to buying sheets? We’ve got one here.
The Best Organic Sheets
Best Overall: Brooklinen Organic Cotton Core Sheet Set
Best Budget-Friendly: Sijo DOZ Organic Bamboo Sheet Set
Best Luxury: Boll & Branch Percale Hemmed Sheet Set
Best Cooling: Pottery Barn 400-Thread Count Organic Percale Sheet Set
Best Sateen: Saatva Organic Sateen Sheet Set
Best Cotton: Tuft & Needle Organic Jersey Sheets
Best Bamboo: Quince Bamboo Sheet Set
What to Consider When Buying Organic Sheets
In the western world, we hear “organic” and are somewhat conditioned to feel better about a purchase, even if we’re not entirely sure what the term means in relation to what we’re buying. Not all bedding with “organic” in the name is the best option or even completely trustworthy. There are a few things to consider when you’re shopping for organic sheets, from what they’re worth to why and how their value is certified.
Thread Count
The higher the thread count, the softer the sheets. However, sheets with a thread count above 430, according to the pros, may require more of your attention. In fact, Brooklinen co-founder Vicki Fulop says “a multi-ply construction is often used to strengthen lower-grade cotton; a super high thread count can actually indicate the presence of a lower-quality sheet.” But this doesn’t actually complicate things as much as it may seem. Thread count is still an important factor; just keep in mind that “as the thread count rises, the fabric becomes softer, denser and warmer,” says Fulop. “So that you know you’re getting an accurate and not misrepresented thread count, you want to be in the 200-500 range. In the lower range you’ll have a crisper, cooler sheet and on the higher end you’ll have a smoother and warmer sheet.” Hot sleepers may actually prefer a percale or sateen sheet with a count closer to 200-300, while cooler sleepers could enjoy the density of a 500 thread count set.
Cost
Even though the production of organic textiles, as opposed to non-organic textiles, involves fewer (if any) chemical treatments, they are usually still more expensive than the alternative. This is because the quality of the raw material itself — cotton, for example — has to be quite high to surpass the need for chemical softeners or other processing and finishing treatments. For the same reason, the material then has to be artfully woven into fabric and naturally dyed in order to yield a desirable look and feel without chemical aids. In short, quality organic sheets cost a pretty penny but are more than worth it when you consider the benefits and amount of use you’ll get out of them.
Benefits
Dermal exposure to the chemicals that so much non-organic bedding is treated with — flame retardants, quinoline, bisphenols, benzothiazoles, phthalates, formaldehyde, metal nanoparticles, and other scary stuff we can barely pronounce — takes a toll on our largest organ over time. But it can also have an immediate effect on our skin, causing rashes and other allergic reactions after just a night’s sleep. And, no, washing your sheets when you first unbox them won’t get rid of all those chemicals, and maybe not any, depending on the production process. Now that you’re as scared straight as we are, think about a world where your bedding is guaranteed to not cause a chemically induced rash or emit so many harmful chemicals into the environment — globally or at home. Organic sheets, depending on their certifications, are non-toxic and safe.
Certifications
There are a number material and textile certifications to consider when shopping for organic bedding.
GREENGUARD certified: Ensures the materials have low chemical emissions.
Fair Trade certified: Meets rigorous standards of environmental protection, sustainability, safe working conditions, and social and economic betterment.
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified: Confirms the ecological and social responsibility with which textile products are made.
Made Safe certified: Ensures everyday products are non-toxic, made with safe ingredients and materials, and are family safe.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified: Ensures every component of a product has been tested and is free of harmful chemicals.
OEKO-TEX Made In Green certified: Ensures textiles and leather products have been manufactured in environmentally friendly facilities under safe and socially responsible working conditions and tested for harmful substances.
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified: Ensures that products come from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits.
What We Look For in Organic Sheets
We tested a range of organic sheets, from cotton to linen and bamboo, judging them on the following criteria. Though not one of our most important criterium, we also considered the aesthetics of the sheets.
Feel: Are they soft? Do they have texture or are they smooth? Do they get softer after washing?
Certifications: Are they certified organic? How much of the production process is ecologically conscious?
Functionality: Are they cooling? Warm? What’s the quality of the material? Are they easy to care for?
The Best Organic Sheets
Best Overall: Brooklinen Organic Cotton Core Sheet Set
Organic Core Sheet Set, Queen
$194.65 (was $229) at Brooklinen
If you ask an AT editor for bedding recommendations, one of the first places you’ll likely be told to look at is Brooklinen. It’s the home of many Best List winners and editor favorites from silk pillowcases and bath towels to home fragrances. The brand’s Organic Collection is made up of ultra-comfy and durable bedding and bath staples that include the Organic Core Sheet Set. These luxurious percale sheets are made with 100% long-staple organic cotton, have a cozy, lived-in look, and are naturally breathable. All in all, it’s safe to say that they’re a must-have as the weather warms up.
“These are the PERFECT sheets for summer, or for year-round use if you’re a hot sleeper,” says AT shopping writer Nikol. “The material is durable but very thin and lightweight. It wrinkles easily, but I like this vibe for summer; it makes the sheets look breezy and casual. The breathability is excellent. I got my sheets in white, but they come in other cool colors, like vanilla and warm clay.” Available in seven colors, four of which are limited edition, these Best Overall organic sheets are the epitome of effortlessly chic.
Read our full review of the Brooklinen Organic Cotton Core Sheets.
Specifications:
100% organic cotton
300 thread count
Fits mattresses up to 16″
Available in 4 sizes and 7 colors
Includes fitted sheet, flat sheet, and 2 pillowcases
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified
Machine wash cold; tumble dry low
Who It’s Best For: Those who want sheets that are suited for any type of sleeper; those who want organic sheets they can use for the entire year.
Good to Know: If you prefer a smoother appearance for your sheets, remove them promptly from the dryer and use a warm iron if necessary.
Best Budget-Friendly: Sijo DOZ Organic Bamboo Sheet Set
DOZ Organic Bamboo Sheet Set, Queen
At well under $100, even in King sizes, the DOZ Organic Bamboo Sheet Set has earned its spot as our Best Budget-Friendly pick. However, their affordability isn’t the only factor that makes these sheets so fantastic. They’re perfect to sleep in all year round, and if you’re a hot sleeper, you’ll love snuggling into this set. “They are SURPRISINGLY on par with some of the higher-end picks I’ve tried,” says commerce SEO editor Sarah, who adds that their price point makes them especially lovely.
These cool and comfortable sheets are made from 100% viscose from sustainably farmed bamboo and come in an impressive seven colors. A fitted sheet and two pillowcases come in the set, and a flat sheet is an optional add-on. They’re breathable, hypoallergenic, and moisture-wicking, so you can wake up feeling refreshed.
Specifications:
100% bamboo viscose
Available in 6 sizes and 7 colors
Includes fitted sheet and 2 pillowcases (flat sheet is optional)
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified
Machine wash cold on gentle cycle; tumble dry low
Who It’s Best For: Those who sleep hot; those who enjoy silky sheets without the hefty price.
Good to Know: At this time, these bamboo sheets cannot be shipped outside of the U.S.
Best Luxury: Boll & Branch Percale Hemmed Sheet Set
Percale Hemmed Sheet Set, Queen
Boll & Branch, an editor-favorite bedding brand, impressed us with its organic Percale Hemmed Sheet Set that’s OEKO-TEX 100, GOTS, and Fair Trade certified. Smooth and crisp, these 100% long-staple organic cotton sheets have a cooling weave that’s ideal for hot sleepers. “I LOVE these sheets!” says our tester Hernetta. “I originally put them on my bed as a stand-in for my usual sheets that were being washed, but ever since sleeping on Boll & Branch’s percale sheets, I’ve been washing them and putting them right back on my bed!”
The Percale Hemmed Sheet Set comes with pillowcases, a flat sheet, and a fitted sheet that can accommodate mattresses up to 17 inches thick. They’re available in a range of neutrals and eight sizes, so whether you have a Twin or a Split King, you’ll be able to dress your bed beautifully. “They’re soft and I don’t get too hot sleeping under them, which has been good for the quickly changing spring weather in Louisiana, but I could easily use them all year round, too,” Hernetta adds. “They wash well, haven’t shed, and look great!”
Read our full review of the Boll & Branch Percale Hemmed Sheet Set.
Specifications:
100% organic cotton
Fits mattresses up to 17″
Available in 8 sizes and 10 colors
Includes fitted sheet, flat sheet, and 2 pillowcases
OEKO-TEX Standard 100, GOTS, and Fair Trade certified
Machine wash cold; tumble dry medium
Who It’s Best For: Those who want cooling sheets; those who want sheets to use all year round; those who want something that will soften with each wash and last a long time.
Good to Know: Patterned styles cost $10 more than the solid sheets.
Best Cooling: Pottery Barn 400-Thread Count Organic Percale Sheet Set
400-Thread-Count Organic Percale Sheet Set, Queen
Outside of sheets with more ventilated, open weaves like linen, organic ones don’t usually have the same cooling factors as those treated with chemicals that laminate materials or otherwise smooth and add shine. While turning to cooler fabrics is always an option, breathable weaves like percale and sateen will not only give you cool sheets but also a luxe appeal. Available in five colors, Pottery Barn’s 400-Thread-Count Organic Percale Sheets will make your bedroom feel like a hotel getaway. They’re made with brushed organic cotton that’s woven for an ultra-smooth and soft feel.
“These sheets are very crisp, but in a good way,” says executive commerce director Mark. “They aren’t really soft but at the same time, they are very comfortable. I’ve been sleeping great on these sheets and they definitely feel very well-made and durable, even after three washes. They are a decent weight and breathable, and my body temperature remains comfortable throughout the night. I’m currently using them during the winter with just a comforter, but I definitely see myself leaving them on my bed year round, as I think they’ll be ideal in warmer weather as well.”
Specifications:
100% organic cotton
400 thread count
Fits mattresses up to 16″
Available in up to 5 sizes and 5 colors
Includes fitted sheet, flat sheet, and 2 pillowcases (1 pillowcase for Twin sets)
Fair Trade, OEKO-TEX, and GOTS certified
Machine wash warm; tumble dry medium
Who It’s Best For: Those who like cool and crisp sheets; those looking for organic cotton percale sheets.
Good to Know: The Twin/Twin XL size has a longer fitted sheet that can accommodate both standard Twin and Twin XL dorm mattresses.
*Honorable Mention: If you’re new to organic sheets, the West Elm Organic Washed Cotton Sheets is a stylish starter set that’s comparable in price and just as cozy. “My favorite part of these sheets is the look,” says associate lifestyle editor Sofia, who opted for the heather gray striped design. “It feels like such a classic set of sheets and somehow makes me excited to make my bed. I’m using these sheets in the winter, so I think they’re good for any season, but I think they’d be best in spring and summer because they’re not very warming. I’m honestly not sure if I’ve used organic sheets before, but I always opt for unscented detergent and other products. so I’m relieved to have fewer chemicals involved in my bedscape!”
Best Sateen: Saatva Organic Sateen Sheet Set
Organic Sateen Sheet Set, Queen
It’s hard to call a Best List complete without editor- and reader-favorite brand Saatva. From mattresses to comforters, it’s a go-to retailer for classic bedding that’s made to last. The Organic Sateen Sheet Set got a stamp of approval from shopping director Jada, who’s slept in more than one set of Saatva sheets before. They’re silky soft, made with 100% organic cotton, and best of all, get softer with every wash. The complete set comes with a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and matching pillowcases.
“I have two existing sets of Saatva’s signature sateen sheets, and these are basically the same in every way except for the way in which the cotton is grown and treated before being woven into threads — which is to say that I love ’em,” Jada says. “Saatva already promises that its signature sheets are OEKO-TEX-certified to be free of harmful chemicals, and after months of nightly use and bi-weekly washing and drying, the organic set has held up nicely — there’s minimal lint in the dryer, the elastic hasn’t stretched out, and the color hasn’t faded.”
Specifications:
100% organic cotton
300 thread count
Available in 9 sizes and 3 colors
Includes fitted sheet, flat sheet, and 2 pillowcases (1 pillowcase with Twin sets)
Fair Trade and GOTS certified
Machine wash cold; tumble dry low
1-year limited warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those who sleep hot; those who want sheets that stand the test of time.
Good to Know: The neutral color options for these sheets were chosen by Saatva to complement any bedroom aesthetic. Additionally, to maintain eco-friendly status, the sheets’ yarn was left in its natural state or dyed with nontoxic dyes.
*Honorable Mention: Avocado’s Superfine Suvin Cotton Sheets undeniably achieve everything a dream sheet set should be — from the certifications to the quality, feel, overnight performance, and durability over time. “These sheets are truly amazing and worth the money,” notes Charli, AT’s executive lifestyle director. Made from one of the rarest varieties of extra-long staple cotton, these soft sheets have a shiny sateen finish and provide year-round comfort that’s optimally breathable for hot sleepers. They’re also available with deep pockets for those with thicker mattresses, such as the editor-favorite Avocado Green Mattress.
Best Cotton: Tuft & Needle Organic Jersey Sheets
Organic Jersey Sheets, Queen
Get the feel of your favorite well-loved T-shirt at bedtime in the form of Tuft & Needle’s Organic Jersey Sheets. It’s a low maintenance approach to organic bedding that doesn’t short you on quality or comfort. Made with durable and soft jersey-knit cotton, these sheets are breathable, moisture-wicking, and smooth. They’re available in five colors, but due to their popularity, you’ll want to pick yours out sooner rather than later as select shades have already sold out.
“I love, love, love these! They’re super soft and have honestly been so comfy, I’m obsessed,” says lifestyle editor Quinn. “They’re cozy, and I love the color (and the other colors they come in), but I’ve only used them in winter. They may be a little warm for the summer, but I tend to sleep on top of my comforter during the warmer months anyways, so the softness will still be nice.”
Specifications:
100% organic cotton
Available in 5 sizes and 6 colors
Includes fitted sheet, flat sheet, and 2 pillowcases (1 pillowcase with Twin sets)
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified
Machine wash cool; tumble dry low
100-night sleep trial
10-year limited warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those who enjoy soft sheets; those who’d like to introduce more organic items into their household without breaking the bank.
Good to Know: According to Quinn, you may experience some pilling with with these sheets. Fortunately, a fabric shaver should take care of that in a heartbeat.
Best Bamboo: Quince Bamboo Sheet Set
Organic Bamboo Sheet Set, Queen
If you’re a fan of buttery-soft sheets, bamboo is certainly one way to get them. Editor-favorite brand Quince has earned this well-deserved spot for its Organic Bamboo Sheet Set that’s smooth, cooling, and silky soft. Available with or without a flat sheet, the set fits mattresses up to 16 inches thick and has a wide range of colors to pick from. They’re hypoallergenic, OEKO-TEX Standard 100-certified, and cool to the touch all night long.
“I was impressed by how cooling these sheets are, especially since my A/C is only in my living room,” says associate social media director Rachel. “They almost have a silk or satin feel to them, which just also feels like a little luxury to me!” As one of the less expensive options on this year’s Best List, these Quince sheets are continuously and quickly gaining multiple five-star reviews. Many cite the “unbeatable price” for their amazing quality as one of the biggest selling points.
Read our full review of the Quince Organic Bamboo Sheet Set.
Specifications:
100% viscose from organic bamboo
300 thread count
Fits mattresses up to 16″
Available in 5 sizes and 11 colors
Includes fitted sheet, flat sheet, and 2 pillowcases (1 pillowcase with Twin set)
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified
Machine wash cold on gentle cycle; tumble dry low
Who It’s Best For: Those who sleep hot; those with allergies; those who prefer smooth, silky sheets.
Good to Know: To avoid pilling, do not use fabric softener or dryer balls with these sheets.
