I’m looking to purchase new flannel sheets. I have purchased LLBean, Garnet Hill and Eddie Bauer flannel, but am looking for something that is going to last and not pill or shrink or get super scratchy as it ages. Any suggestions?
Videos
What's the difference between flannel and plaid?
Plaid refers to a checked pattern, whereas flannel is a specific type of fabric. Plenty of flannel sheets feature plaid patterns, which is why they frequently get confused.
What's the difference between flannel and cotton?
Most flannel is made from cotton, though you can also find wool flannel. Feel-wise, flannel is fuzzier and thicker than other cotton weaves like sateen or percale. If you are looking for a crisp feel, check out our guide to the best cotton sheets.
What does flannel weight mean?
Flannel weight is measure in ounces per square yard. A higher weight means a warmer fabric, so a 6-ounce flannel is warmer whereas a 5-ounce flannel is best for hot sleepers or all-season use.
I love love Flannel sheets for the cooler months, I live in Hawaii and our winter nights are chilly and damp, but our house doesn't have heat. My husband and I both love slipping into some flannel for the rainy season.
The issue for me is, they never seem to keep their softness and I end up wanting new sets every season... Which is kind of ridiculous, since I buy high quality ones. I currently have LL Bean Supima Cotton Flannel, and Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Flannel...
Is the pilling just normal wear and tear and unavoidable? I machine wash delicate cycle, cold water, rinse with white vinegar, line dry.... I rotate my sheets every other week (we are night showerers and I find weekly washing excessive for our needs) if I have lotions or oils on before bed, I make sure to sleep in long pants and long sleeves so it doesn't get into my fabric.. And I only probably use them 1/3 of the year.
Contrary to my flannel, I use percale sheets in the summer - treat them with same care and they will literally feel and look just like the day I bought them and I can easily get many years out of a set. But I can't stand how they feel cold getting into bed in the rainy season (although I love that feeling in the summer)
Do I just need to accept that flannel will lose that softness over time? Can I do anything to prevent it? Are there better brands or other fabrics I don't know about?