Latest news with #bedding
The Independent
20 hours ago
- Health
- The Independent
Silentnight airmax mattress topper review: An affordable upgrade for beds past their best
If you find you're tossing and turning at night, and finding it hard to pick between the suffocating heat of your duvet and the chilly air without it, here's a surprising solution. Silentnight has created a mattress topper that helps air circulate underneath you while you sleep. Designed to bring fresh air in underneath you thanks to mesh sides, the Silentnight airmax should keep your temperature just right all night long. The idea of a mattress topper is basically to breathe new life into your mattress. Whether your mattress is a bit tired or you've picked up a new ache that seems worse when you wake up, a topper may help, and it's a whole lot cheaper than replacing your mattress wholesale. But those are big claims, and the hypoallergenic Silentnight airmax even claims to rejuvenate your existing mattress. Can it actually make that much of a difference? How I tested I tested the Silentnight airmax mattress topper in super kingsize. I trialled it for more than four weeks, totalling more than 200 hours of sleep. Over the years, I've tested a multitude of duvets, pillows and mattress toppers, so I know the exactly what makes for a good night's sleep. When testing this mattress topper, I considered some key factors: Comfort: Comfort is vital for sleep products. I wanted to know if it levelled up my mattress, rather than just acting as a gimmick. And ultimately, I wanted to know if I'd sleep any better than normal Whether it lives up to its claims: I paid close attention to whether I remained temperate all night long, and whether the mesh sides worked their magic. Many products do not live up to expectations If it's worth the money: The Silentnight airmax mattress topper certainly isn't one of the most expensive on the market, but there's no use in spending money on things we don't need. When testing out the mattress topper, I made sure that it enhanced my sleep. Why you can trust IndyBest reviews Zoë Phillimore is a journalist and editor who has worked with IndyBest since 2021. She has written extensively on all things family life and sleep, covering everything from the best mattresses for children and duvets to sleep aids. Zoë has developed a keen eye for spotting the very best, paying meticulous attention to quality materials, affordability and durability.
CNN
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- CNN
The best linen sheets of 2025, tested and reviewed
The best linen sheets we tested Best linen sheets: Parachute Linen Sheet Set Best budget linen sheets: Casaluna 100% Linen Sheet Set We all spend a lot of time sleeping in our beds, so why not outfit them with the luxury of the best linen sheets? Though linen may not be as soft as cotton sheets at first touch, the way linen is woven together creates a cool, moisture-wicking fabric that only gets softer with each wash. Along with added durability, those characteristics make linen among the best sheets you can buy if you're looking for cooling sheets in the summer or layered bedding for temperature regulation in the colder months. It might sound like a no-brainer upgrade, but there are many options available — along with numerous marketing claims that sound impressive — when it comes to linen sheets. To make your choice a bit easier, I tested 10 popular sets by sleeping in and washing them, while closely inspecting the feel and fit along the way. While most were fine, two sets stood out for their performance and ordering options. No matter your budget or preference, one of these winners should work for you. Parachute Linen Sheet Set By finding the perfect balance of soft, crisp and breezy but comforting, Parachute's linen sheets emerged from a crowded group of quality sets. They're a durable value buy that will validate your investment as they break in more with each wash. Casaluna 100% Linen Sheet Set This Target exclusive sheet set feels almost too good to be true for the price, combining a smooth finish usually reserved for other fabrics with a heavy weight that's great for all seasons. Parachute's linen sheet set possesses all the qualities this fabric promises — softness, durability and airiness — while giving shoppers flexibility and confidence in their purchase. They're not a bargain, but they found a sweet spot in value among the sheets I tested. Let's start with the makeup. Parachute's linen sheets come from 100% European flax linen and are made in Portugal. The material is certified according to the European Flax Standard and Oeko-Tex Standard 100 qualifications for safety. None of this is rare, but the sheets' newly increased weight of 175 grams per square meter (GSM) was a standout quality and an updated feature from Parachute's previous iterations. The result? A long-lasting construction that, despite being on the heavier end of the spectrum for linen, is still mighty light and breathable. Sleeping in Parachute's linen sheets is a delight. Their softness exists somewhere in the middle of all the sheets I tested. There were rougher sets in my testing pool, and there were smoother. But linen provides a luxurious and unique feel compared to cotton sheets or flannel sheets — one that only improves with each wash — and Parachute's occupancy of a middle ground made it a winner. There's no shortage of quality bedsheets on the market, but this is what I would recommend to any hot sleepers desperate for bedding that doesn't turn up temps when you're trying to get some shut-eye. There's no denying linen can give your bedroom a sophisticated look, and Parachute's color and size options open up possibilities to match just about any aesthetic. The set comes in four sizes, ranging from full to California king, and 13 colors. There are neutral tones, such as the Toast color I tested, and more vibrant hues like Marigold and Cobalt. The standard set includes a fitted sheet, a top sheet and two pillowcases. Every piece is available for individual purchase. If you prefer a duvet cover, the Venice set swaps one in for the top sheet. While I tested multiple linen sheet sets that were pricier than Parachute's, this set is no small investment. Pricing starts at $349 for a full and reaches $389 for king and California king sizes. To ease the stress of spending that much dough, I love that Parachute backs its bedding with a one-year warranty and a 60-day return period. Give the sheets a couple of months to see if they're truly the upgrade you expected, and if you don't like them, no biggie — though my experience says they'll be keepers. Related article 8 luxury linens that'll make your bedroom feel like a hotel Linen can be scratchy. It can also be expensive. So I was wowed by the softness and relative affordability of Casaluna's 100% Linen Sheet Set, one of the most comfortable sets in my pool of contenders that came at less than half the cost of almost every other brand. Target doesn't label these with a GSM weight, instead specifying their 106-thread count, which isn't usually the best metric for classifying linen. But these sheets are denser and more significant than many of the others I tested, while still retaining premier softness and the breathability that makes linen such a useful material for bedding. They're also a great choice for year-round use, not just a summery standout for hot sleepers. Users with particularly deep mattresses won't have to worry about the Casaluna sheets struggling to stay snug at the corners, to either. Designed to fit up to 18-inch-deep mattresses and outfitted with an additional strap on the interior of each corner, these sheets had no trouble fitting over my mattress and its chunky topper. Sizing for the Casaluna set spans from full to California king, and the sheets come in 11 colors. Additional sets of pillowcases are available separately, though you'll have to spring for an entire new set if you need more of the top sheets or fitted sheets. This feels like a fine trade-off considering Casaluna is one of Target's in-house brands and not a direct-to-consumer specialty bedding company like many of the other options I tested. Had I pulled off the labels and blindly judged these sheets, I would've thought the resúmé of Casaluna's linen sheet set belonged to something far more expensive. Yet, you could buy two of these sets for less than one of nearly every other brand I tested. For anyone looking to stock their linen closet or see if linen sheets are the remedy to sleepless nights, your money will go a long way here. Related article The 20 best cooling sheets for sweat-free nights, according to experts The following criteria guided my evaluations while testing each set of linen sheets: Feel: The main reason to opt for linen sheets is that they provide a different feel compared to basic cotton sheets. I assessed how each set felt while I slept in it, noting the texture and softness compared to other sets. Weight: You'll often see three letters used to describe the weight of linen sheets: GSM. This stands for grams per square meter, a common measurement of weight in textiles such as bedding and clothing. I took note of any claims regarding GSM and translated them to how that affected the weight of each sheet set during use. Breathability: Typically, a lighter sheet is better for hot sleepers who don't want much insulation from their sheets. I evaluated how hot I slept while using each sheet set. Fit: Does the fitted sheet slip off the corners of the mattress, and can it cover a mattress equipped with a topper? Do the pillow cases stay put? Just how big is the top sheet? I tested queen-sized sheets for every set to see how compatible they were with my mattress. Change after washing: Quality sheets that strike all the right notes on the above evaluations need to retain those characteristics after washing. I sent each set through a washing machine and dryer multiple times, following the recommended care guidance each time. The best sheets got even better with more use, developing a worn-in feel without falling apart. Sizes: Whether your space only has room for a twin or you've splurged on a California King, the best linen sheets had to work for different-sized mattresses. Colors: I noted how many colors each sheet set was available in. Some were available in only three or four colors, while others were available in upwards of 20. Replacements and extras: Can you order additional pillowcases without going for an additional complete set? Can you forgo a top sheet if you're not interested? The retailers that offered the greatest flexibility for shoppers earned an edge here. Value Price: Quality bedding rarely comes cheap, but what's too expensive? I accounted for the pros and cons of each set to see if it lived up to its price tag. Warranty: Your bedding is one of the most-used products in your home, so you want it to last. I compared warranties to see which brands backed up the quality of their product the longest. Return policy: While you always hope to keep the sheets you buy, stuff happens. Perhaps the color doesn't look right in your room once you put it on your bed, or maybe you bought several sets of sheets to see which you liked the most. I valued flexible return policies that gave buyers options. Related article The best flannel sheets of 2025, tried and tested Transparent materials I don't mean you want to be able to see through the linen, although you usually can because of the way the fibers are constructed. I'm talking about what it's made of. Linen is made from flax, which is most commonly sourced in Europe. Countries such as Belgium, France and the Netherlands are common producers of the plant. To be sure you're getting what you paid for — genuine linen — look for detailed material descriptions from wherever you're buying your sheets. Chances are, it will be described as 100% linen, meaning the manufacturer isn't interweaving cheaper materials. Why does it matter? For all the reasons linen is a great fabric for bedding. Its loose fibers are breathable yet stronger than the cheap bonds of cotton. It wicks away moisture, making it ideal for sweaty sleepers. You want your sheets to be made of those qualities entirely, not at a diminished percentage. Don't let wrinkles or lint scare you off That same structure can lead to two byproducts that might make you think there's something wrong with your linen sheets if you didn't know better. For one, they will wrinkle. It was the case with every set I tested. If presentation matters to you, follow your set's guidance for ironing … or consider other kinds of sheets. Next, don't worry if the first several times running your sheets through the dryer totally fills up your lint trap. No, your sheets are not withering away. This is normal and will lessen over time. Related article The best cotton sheets in 2024, tried and testedCultiver Linen Sheet Set A previous edition of this guide labeled Cultiver's set as our most luxurious pick. I can't disagree, as there's hardly a trace of roughness to the linen. Just be prepared to pay for it. Look away from the dollars, and you'll be hard-pressed to find negatives with Cultiver's linen. It weighs in at 165 GSM, slightly lighter than my top pick from Parachute, yet still comparable in that it's a great balance of a worn-in feel and breathability. These were some of the softest sheets I tested and certainly lived up to the price tag. Cultiver offered 17 different colors and patterns as of this writing, second only to Brooklinen, and five different sizes. Each item is selected separately, which is especially helpful for picking replacements down the road. But that brings me to the most troubling evaluation of Cultiver: The brand lacks a warranty or guarantee and almost goes as far as to predict you'll need to buy replacements, suggesting you buy two fitted sheets so they don't wear out too fast. Transparency in lifespan is great to see, but that kind of warning generates a bit of hesitancy in me for something this expensive. Brooklinen Washed European Linen Core Sheet Set One of our favorite bedding brands just revamped the construction of its linen. It's a more attractive pick if you can time your purchase during a sale. Brooklinen debuted a new generation of its linen sheets in April. Though I hadn't tested the older version, this update — with improved durability thanks to 155 GSM and what the brand says is a higher-quality flax and a better pre-washing process — has shown promise. That new weight is on the lighter side of the sheets I tested, and it's obvious from the touch. More so than the heavier options in this guide, this Brooklinen set is a strong pick for those who shop for linen because they sleep hot. Variety is another strength here. With 19 colors and patterns as of this writing, Brooklinen gives shoppers the most choices of any brand I tested. Though I, ultimately, feel that other options provide better softness and more bang for your buck, anyone new to Brooklinen should be able to secure 15% off. That discount, or Brooklinen's robust warranty coverage and return policy, could be enough to sway you. Thuma Linen Sheet Set Crisp without qualifying as scratchy, Thuma's linen sheets come at a more approachable price and include a generous return window if you aren't convinced. You may know Thuma from its viral minimalist bed frame, which we recently tested. How about some matching sheets to go with it? Thuma's linen offering starts at a palatable $275. I found these sheets to be crisper than most, boasting a midweight feel without an advertised GSM. They kept me cool during several July nights as well. Six sizes are available, including Twin XL and California King, though you'll only get to pick from six muted earth tones. No bright colors here. And the brand's generous 100-day return policy will give you more than enough time to see if these sheets are best for you. Buffy Belgian Linen Sheet Set If a price that starts with a three just isn't in your budget, Buffy's linen sheets are certainly light. They're also on the rougher side. The coarseness that linen has a reputation for came through the most with Buffy's Belgian Linen Sheet Set. It's not my cup of tea, but there's nothing wrong with that being the reason why you're considering linen sheets. That rough feel pairs with a lightness that's a fine value at this price. You'll get 14 colors from which to choose and the option to add a duvet cover. Buffy also had the best commitment to its customers. It offers a seven-day free trial, so you get a week with only a temporary $0 charge on your payment method before committing. Beyond that, the brand's return policy extends to 50 days, and its three-year warranty against defects topped every other brand's backing. Mellanni 4-Piece Flax Linen Sheet Set This affordable option was one of the roughest we tested right out of its packaging, but it softened after several washes. While some budget sheets start soft and reveal a lack of durability after extended use, this offering from Mellanni was the opposite. I was quite opposed to their feel out of the box, as they were sandpaper rough and not comfortable. But one cycle through the laundry completely transformed them, and subsequent washes revealed a breezy, pill-free linen construction. If not opting for this particular set — which ranked last in size and color options — at least let it be a reminder that any new linen sheets should be washed to show off their true quality. Baloo Stonewashed Linen Sheets Baloo's Stonewashed Linen Sheets are a worthy option if you want a weighty linen sheet. You won't get much of a choice when it comes to colors, though. Baloo's Stonewashed Linen Sheets are competitively priced, coming in under my top pick from Parachute. They don't boast a specific GSM, but they feel significantly heavier than most of the competition. That weight was comforting during sleep, and if you like a hefty top sheet under your comforter, this is a fine choice. A lack of options, though, ultimately held Baloo from claiming a top spot. Though this was the only brand that offered a split King size, the set comes in only four similar colors: White, Dove Grey, Oatmeal and Charcoal. Each piece is available for separate purchase. Ettitude Linen+ Sheet Set Ettitude's bamboo-hemp material imitates the luxury of linen well while feeling softer than everything else I tested. Sustainability is a major positive, but it comes at an even bigger price. Ettitude achieves the look of linen without flax, using a 70% bamboo, 30% hemp combination. The result is a lightweight and smooth feel I loved on warmer nights. These sheets lack the roughness some linen can possess, feeling closer to an elevated cotton blend than the 100% flax materials I tested; instead, they felt premium and delicate. A stitched pattern on the pillowcases was also a nice touch. The brand takes sustainability seriously too, providing transparent details about how they water and harvest the natural materials that go into the sheets. However, limited options and a steep price held Ettitude back in my rankings. Queen, king and California king are the only available sizes, and the color is capped at three neutral choices: Stone, Honey and Ink. Simple & Opulence 100% Washed Linen Sheet Set The sheets in the Simple & Opulence 100% Washed Linen Sheet Set held their own in comfort and design, with a soft feel out of the box. These linen sheets from Simple & Opulence were our previous pick for the best budget linen sheets, and although the Casaluna set took that spot in this round of testing, these are still a quality buy. There's a lovely satin-stitched piping along the edge of the top sheet, and the set has the weight of much more expensive sheets but comes at nearly half the cost. Are linen sheets worth it? Are linen sheets worth it? We think the luxurious feel and versatility of linen sheets makes them worth it. While they are almost always going to be more expensive than cotton sheets, the added benefits of the long fibers in linen — which provide a more tangible texture, better cooling capabilities and lasting durability — will win out in the long run. The best linen sheets I've tested will give you immense value, especially at discounted prices during sales. What are the disadvantages of linen sheets? What are the disadvantages of linen sheets? The cost and rougher feel of linen sheets aren't for everyone. While we believe the benefits of linen make the price worth it, you can still get great sleep on affordable cotton sheets. And though plenty of the linen sheets we tested were mighty comfortable, there's no denying that linen can be scratchier than cotton because of the structure and stiffness of its long fibers. How long do linen sheets typically last? How long do linen sheets typically last? Linen sheets should last for several years, especially if you follow the advised care instructions. My top pick from Parachute estimates a lifespan of three to five years (or more) for its linen sheets if they're used every day. More delicate materials like sateen are graded to have a shorter shelf life. Are linen sheets softer than cotton sheets? Are linen sheets softer than cotton sheets? No, not normally. But that doesn't mean linen is going to be sandpaper rough. The coarseness of linen sheets varies from brand to brand and often gives your bedding a deluxe feel that cotton can't achieve. And what linen sacrifices in terms of softness benefits the sheets' breathability and durability. CNN Underscored thoroughly tests the products in our testing guides and provides full transparency about how we test them. We have a skilled team of writers and editors who have many years of testing experience and ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this guide, associate writer Joe Bloss pitted 10 set of linen sheets against one another to see which provided the most value. Bloss is constantly testing and reviewing household products, including down comforters, slot toasters and pet vacuums.
CNET
6 days ago
- Business
- CNET
Upgrade Your Bedding With Bedgear's Performance Sheet Sets, Now Up to 70% Off
Struggling to sleep in this summer heat? Your sheets (apart from the weather) might be partly to blame. Warm weather calls for lightweight and breathable bedding that helps you stay comfortable while you rest. Luckily, you can invest in some premium options right now without spending a fortune. Bedgear kicked off its annual summer sale on July 21, with discounts of up to 70% on some of its most popular Performance sheets sets. Several options can be grabbed for less than $100 and the sale also includes the latest Performance Duvet & Sham set at a sweet $100 discount. It's one of the biggest promotions we've seen from Bedgear and it runs through Aug. 8. That said, popular picks could sell out early, so if you spot something you like, don't wait too long. The summer sale brings the prices of Flannel and Hyper-Linen Performance sheets down to $99 -- that's a massive $231 savings off the retail price of $330. Shopping for little ones, too? Select Performance crib sheets are 30% off as well. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. Bedgear's Performance sheets feature high-tech fabric that is soft to the touch and breathable. These sheets are moisture-wicking, so they can pull sweat away from your skin while drying quickly, which promotes comfortable sleep no matter the season. Even better, these come with a Powerband that prevents the sheets from slipping away every time you move a little. All sheets are available in a variety of colors and sizes, so there's something for everyone. The summer sale also gets you the Frost Performance pillow at a 60% discount, and you score a free knee pillow when you purchase two Performance pillows. Just be sure to get your orders in before the sale wraps up or the stock runs out. Why this deal matters Bedding accessories, especially if you're looking at premium options, can be expensive, so any chance to save is worth grabbing. Bedgear's summer sale lets you get some of the brand's best options for a fraction of the price for a limited time. If you see something you like, we suggest snagging it before it's too late.
Forbes
6 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Elevate Your Bedding With The Best Duvet Covers On Amazon
A duvet cover is a multi-purpose bedding accessory that blends comfort with function. It protects your comforter or insert from spills and accidents, while simplifying the cleaning process. Unlike a comforter, it's specifically designed for easy washing and maintenance. Amazon offers a wide range of options, from silky-smooth fabrics to colorful prints and everything in between. The best duvet covers on Amazon come from reputable and beloved brands in the industry and have thousands of glowing customer reviews to co-sign their comfort. Our top choice is the Luxe Sateen Duvet Cover from Brooklinen, which has a buttery-soft sateen weave and luxurious feel that's true to its name. The best duvet covers on Amazon are made with high-quality materials and take the hassle out of ... More cleaning your bedding. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILER The right duvet cover can make a huge difference for the look and feel of your bed, and varies depending on the type of materials used and weave pattern. In our roundup below, we highlight duvet covers on Amazon made from popular bedding materials like cotton and linen, options for hot sleepers and solid value picks. For more shopping advice on bedroom accessories, see what our editors named as the best down comforters and best sheets . Material: Cotton | Colors: 10 colorways | Thread count: 480 | Weave: Sateen Pros: Soft, smooth texture with a high thread count Oeko-Tex certified Buttons and corner ties Cons: Sleeps warmer than percale Brooklinen is one of our favorite bedding brands at Forbes Vetted for its quality products and value. Its Luxe Duvet Cover is made with premium 100% long-staple cotton and features a sateen weave that provides a soft and buttery feel with a subtle sheen. It has a 480-thread count, which contributes to its overall coziness. 'The first time I tried Brooklinen's bedding, I fell in love,' says our tester. 'After seeing how the Luxe not only elevated the look of my bedding but was super soft and cozy, I knew it was there to stay.' She also mentions it looks good as new after each wash, and 'putting the duvet cover back on the insert is easy,' thanks to its oversized buttons and corner ties. Material: Tencel lyocell from Eucalyptus | Colors: Blue, gray, pink or white | Thread count: 300 | Weave: Sateen Pros: Breathable for hot sleepers Oeko-Tex certified, made with sustainable materials Buttons with envelope closure Cons: Limited color options on Amazon (more available on Buffy's site) Some customers say it's oversized Buffy has somewhat of a cult following thanks to its Breeze Cloud Comforter that utilizes eucalyptus, a more sustainable and environmentally friendly material than cotton since Eucalyptus trees use less water and pesticides to grow. It's also great at regulating temperature and wicking away moisture. The Breeze Duvet Cover uses the same eucalyptus-based material, with a soft and smooth sateen weave that delivers a relieving and subtly cool-to-the-touch feel. We see it appealing to most people, but especially hot sleepers and eco-conscious shoppers. Even the buttons are naturally sourced and made from corozo nuts. Material: Cotton | Colors: 41 colors | Thread count: 184 | Weave: Percale Pros: Standard and unconventional sizes available (including oversized queen) Large variety of colors to pick from Has a comfortable textured waffle pattern Made with breathable percale cotton Cons: Not as soft as a sateen duvet cover No twin XL or split king sizes Make your mattress feel like a high-end resort and spa with a waffle-textured duvet cover that's made with 100% cotton and a crisp percale weave, making it more breathable and lightweight than covers with a sateen weave pattern. It features a hidden button closure with eight ties on the inside to secure your insert or comforter (as opposed to the standard four), and can be thrown in the washing machine for easy maintenance. Pro tip: I've had 100% cotton, waffle-textured products shrink after a wash and dry cycle, and some customers mention their duvet is too small for their insert. So I recommend you opt for the oversized queen or king, or tumble dry on low to avoid shrinkage. Material: French linen | Colors: 9 colorways | Thread count: N/A | Weave: Patented (LuxeWeave) Pros: GOTS-certified French linen sourced in small batches Breathable feel ideal for hot sleepers Stonewashed for softness Hypoallergenic Cons: No twin, twin XL or split king sizes Sijo is a luxury bedding brand that values sustainability, and the brand's linen set is one of the nicest you can find on Amazon. It sources its 100% organic French linen material in small batches from Normandy, France, a region famous for its premium linen. This bedding is stonewashed and free of bleaches or dyes, so your sheets feel soft and mattress-ready straight out of the package. Plus, linen only gets softer with each cycle. It holds your comforter in place with eight corner loops on the inside and features buttons made from natural coconut shells to close the duvet. Material: Viscose derived from bamboo | Colors: 7 colorways | Thread count: 1,600 (according to the brand) | Weave: Not listed Pros: Zipper closure for ease of use Bamboo material is cooling and moisture wicking Silky-smooth feel Cons: Bamboo material is more prone to wrinkles Another great value, this bamboo duvet cover from Hotel Sheets Direct has a 4.4-star rating on Amazon with hundreds of 5-star reviews. It's made from bamboo viscose, which offers a silky-smooth feel, and is Oeko-Tex certified to be free from harmful substances. Bamboo is also ideal for hot sleepers and warm climates, as it's superior at wicking away moisture and allowing airflow. For those tired of messing with duvet ties and buttons, this duvet design also features an easy-to-use zipper closure. Our experienced editors and writers have contributed hundreds of articles to our mattress and sleep category, covering topics ranging from the best mattresses for side sleepers to how to feng shui your bedroom . Each subject we report on is researched extensively, and we rely on our industry knowledge and trusted experts to help inform our articles. McKenzie Dillon is the author of this story, and she is a mattress and sleep editor at Forbes Vetted with a sleep science coach certification. She has been testing mattresses, bedding and other sleep products for six years and has personal experience with top-rated brands we listed in our roundup. Bridget Chapman is the senior mattress and sleep editor at Forbes Vetted with a sleep science coach certification. She oversees the mattress and sleep category and helps approve the products we choose to highlight. We spoke with Lauren Wood, co-founder of sustainable and ethically made linens company Sirimini, on different bedding materials and important factors to consider when shopping for a duvet cover. Products listed in each best list are chosen by our editors and contributors based on a variety of factors. We first consulted with our team who has personal experience with duvet covers from Amazon and asked for their top tested recommendations. We considered duvet covers from well-loved brands that we have experience with that are reputable and offer high-quality products. We searched through hundreds of customer reviews to determine the upsides and drawbacks to each product, and if we think they're worth the money. We only considered duvet covers with a 4-star rating or higher on Amazon. We took important features into account such as materials used, thread count, weave and notable certifications. A duvet cover can change the feel of your bedding and make a difference in how comfortable you sleep depending on your needs and preferences. The most common materials used include cotton, linen, bamboo and polyester. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are better at regulating temperature and help wick away moisture, while polyester is an affordable and wrinkle-resistant material. However, synthetic materials restrict breathability, which makes it 'more difficult for our bodies to regulate temperature, resulting in overheating and restless nights sleep," says Lauren Wood, co-founder of sustainable and ethically made linens company Sirimini. Weave This refers to the way a fabric's thread pattern is woven, and it also contributes to the overall feel of your duvet cover. Duvets with a percale weave feel more crisp, lightweight and fresh like a high-end hotel sheet. Bedding with a sateen weave tends to be softer, more buttery and gives off a subtle sheen, but it generally sleeps warmer than percale. Thread Count Thread count is a common measurement when it comes to bedding that helps indicate quality and weight. Wood says, 'In hot weather, an organic cotton percale with a thread count of 200 to 400 would be a good choice; the lower thread count benefits sleepers because of their lower density and higher breathability.' Sheets with a higher thread count, on the other hand, are generally softer to the touch and more substantial in weight. That said, thread count is not the only factor to consider, and not all fabrics use it as a measurement. Closure Style One of the biggest grievances people have with duvet covers is how difficult it is to secure an insert or comforter inside. Take a duvet cover's closure style into consideration when narrowing down a purchase since it can help determine its ease of use. The simplest style is a zipper closure, as featured on the Hotel Sheets Direct Set, but the most popular styles are corner ties and buttons. What Is The Best Quality Material For Duvet Covers? The best quality material for duvet covers largely depends on personal preferences and needs. Natural fibers like cotton, bamboo and linen are popular choices for their breathability and softness. What Do Hotels Use For Duvet Covers? Hotels often use bedding that is made with cotton. Some hotels use an actual duvet cover, but it's common to see two flat sheets sandwiching a duvet insert instead of a duvet cover—it's more efficient to change between guests and more cost-effective since hotels buy bedding in bulk. How Do I Choose A Duvet Material? Hot sleepers do best with a lightweight and breathable material such as linen, cotton with a percale weave, viscose or lyocell. If you like a smoother, softer material, then you may prefer cotton with a sateen weave.
CNET
6 days ago
- Health
- CNET
A Ring and a Smart Bed Tracked My Sleep for 30 Nights. Here's What I Learned
Did you know CNET has a dedicated sleep team? Over the years, we've tested around 350 mattresses from dozens of brands. We've tried numerous bedding items, including pillows, sheets, blankets, comforters and more. We've researched and reviewed countless sleep-related products, from white noise machines and sleep masks to supplements and bedtime mocktails. If there's an obscure "sleep hack" trending on social media, you can bet we've given it a shot. CNET's sleep team tests and reviews much more than just mattresses. Cole Kan/CNET We aim to sort through the overwhelming amount of sleep-related information available online to find what works -- and help you avoid the things that don't. Everyone has varying health needs and sleep preferences, so there's no one-size-fits-all approach to enhancing sleep quality. Still, we do our best to back our conclusions with actual sleep data, which is why it's essential for us to use accurate sleep trackers. Our CNET sleep editors have tested various trackers over the years to find those that work best for each of us. Types of sleep trackers The most accurate sleep test is a polysomnography, which is conducted in a lab. It uses sensors to monitor physiological factors such as brain waves, eye movements, heart rate, etc. It's extremely precise -- but it's not practical for everyday use. Most people who receive a polysomnography only do so because they're being tested for a sleep disorder. While not as accurate as PSG and unable to diagnose sleep disorders, many other types of sleep trackers are available for everyday use. They come in all shapes and sizes, from wearable rings and watches to mattress covers or pads. Dr. Carlos Nunez, chief medical officer at Resmed, explains, "Many wearable devices allow you to track your sleep patterns, such as bedtime, wake time, how often you wake up at night and some even track your sleep stages, like REM. Tracking these metrics over time can offer insights into the quality of your sleep health and empower users to make lifestyle changes to improve sleep and overall health." As part of our 30-night mattress testing series, my partner and fellow CNET sleep expert Dillon and I have tested several trackers, including Whoop, Apple Watch, Garmin, Eight Sleep and Oura. We've found wearables generally more accurate than devices you lie on, such as sleep tracking bed frames or mattress covers. Given that information, I have to admit that I was surprised by the results of our experiment testing the Oura Ring against our Sleep Number smart bed. An example of the nightly sleep data provided by my Whoop band. Aly Lopez/CNET Comparing Oura and Sleep Number Dillon and I recently tested the Sleep Number ClimateCool smart bed. This high-tech setup uses integrated sensors and SleepIQ technology to monitor body movements, sleep data and biosignals such as heart rate, breath rate and heart rate variability. Read more: 90-Night Review of the Sleep Number ClimateCool Smart Bed The cover is pulled back to show the tracking sensors running across the top third of the Sleep Number smart bed. Aly Lopez/CNET It tracks sleep metrics such as total time in bed, restful sleep, restlessness, bed exits and the times you fall asleep and wake up. The Sleep Number app collects and displays all this information, providing actionable insights and tips to help you improve your sleep quality. Dillon and I began wearing the Oura Ring 4 while testing our Sleep Number bed. This allowed us to compare and contrast our sleep data and assess the accuracy of both. Oura is widely considered one of the most precise wearables for tracking sleep, thanks to its placement on your finger near the radial artery for heart rate sensing. It tracks more than sleep, monitoring your fitness and activity, menstrual cycle, stress levels and more. For this review, I'll focus on the sleep and biosignals offered by each. Dillon and I have been wearing Oura rings to bed each night to compare our data with Sleep Number. Aly Lopez/CNET Oura offers a bit more detailed sleep data than Sleep Number, including the time spent in light, REM and deep sleep. Knowing when and how much time you spend in each stage provides valuable insights into your overall sleep quality, especially if you struggle with insomnia or other sleep disorders. The symptoms of insufficient REM and deep sleep are similar. Oura's breakdown of these sleep phases can provide more helpful information if you struggle to get quality rest. However, it's important to remember that you shouldn't try to interpret this data on your own. "If you're interested in more advanced data like REM versus deep sleep, sleep apnea detection or unusual breathing patterns, consult your doctor. Sleep trackers are a helpful tool, but not diagnostic devices. Medical guidance is essential for interpreting deeper metrics or addressing potential sleep health concerns," explains Nunez. Sleep trackers compared Sleep Number vs. Oura Ring 4 Metrics Oura Ring Sleep Number Overall sleep score ✓ ✓ Total sleep time ✓ ✓ Time awake ✓ ✓ Time in bed ✓ ✓ Sleep latency ✓ ✓ Heart rate variability ✓ ✓ Heart rate ✓ ✓ Respiratory rate ✓ ✓ Movement ✓ ✓ Helpful insights ✓ ✓ Recovery index ✓ x Light sleep ✓ x REM sleep ✓ x Sleep efficiency ✓ x Body temperature ✓ x Blood oxygen ✓ x Readiness score ✓ x Bed exit x ✓ At the beginning of our test, I didn't have high expectations for Sleep Number's tracking capabilities. However, when comparing the numbers with Oura, the results were surprisingly similar (for the most part). As you can see in the nightly sample below, Oura reported 6 hours and 42 hours of total sleep, while Sleep Number reported 6 hours and 44 minutes. Oura said I spent 44 minutes awake, while Sleep Number reported 38 minutes of restlessness. While it's hard to pinpoint the exact moment on either app, both Sleep Number and Oura reported my sleep and wake times within minutes of each other. Comparison of my sleep data from the Oura Ring (left) and the Sleep Number ClimateCool bed (right). Aly Lopez/CNET/Oura/Sleep Number Oura indicated my total time in bed was 7 hours and 25 minutes, while Sleep Number noted 7 hours and 35 minutes. Sleep Number gave me a SleepIQ score of 80; Oura gave me a 78. As expected, there were nights when the data did not match this well. In those scenarios, Sleep Number almost always displayed the more generous sleep scores and total time slept. Part of this discrepancy is because the Sleep Number smart bed occasionally assumes I've fallen asleep while watching television or reading, while Oura recognizes I have not yet entered dreamland. The bed may sometimes mistake Dillon's body movements or our dog's as mine, whereas our Oura rings don't have that issue. Read more: I Tested Three Sleep Trackers for 30 Days. Here's the One I'd Actually Use Sleep data compared External factors occasionally affected our sleep quality, resulting in data that didn't accurately reflect Oura or Sleep Number's tracking capabilities. An example is when I'd fall asleep on the couch and then move to the bed in the middle of the night. There were a few nights when I put my ring on its charger and forgot to put it back on before falling asleep. Additionally, factors like illness or menstrual cramps sometimes make me uncomfortable enough to sleep somewhere other than our smart bed. I excluded these nights to ensure the accuracy of this comparison. As a result, the sleep data presented here is not perfectly consecutive. Instead, to paint a better picture of how they track, it includes 30 nights of solid sleep on our Sleep Number smart bed while wearing Oura. Using both trackers for 30 nights, Oura reported an average total sleep of 7:35 hours (7.58), and Sleep Number reported 7:36 hours (7.60) -- just one minute difference. Aly Lopez/CNET For 30 nights using both sleep trackers, the average total sleep reported was only one minute apart: 7 hours and 35 minutes according to Oura, and 7 hours and 36 minutes according to Sleep Number. Both reported an average of exactly 1 hour of restlessness or time awake per night. Sleep Number gave me an average sleep score of 86, and Oura gave me 82. The health metrics tracked were also similar: Sleep Number reported my average resting heart rate as 53, and Oura indicated it as 52. Both trackers registered an average breath rate of 17. Oura reported my average heart rate variability to be 64, while Sleep Number reported it as 124. This discrepancy isn't necessarily because one brand is more accurate than the other, but because they calculate HRV differently. Both measure the time intervals between heartbeats throughout the night, but Oura uses a method called Root Mean Square of Successive Differences, while Sleep Number uses Standard Deviation of NN Intervals. Regardless of how it's calculated, higher HRV numbers are considered better, indicating good recovery and physical adaptability. Lower HRV numbers can be indicative of high stress levels, dehydration, alcohol consumption, poor sleep and more. Here's an example of the biosignals reported in Sleep Number's monthly summary. Aly Lopez/CNET/Sleep Number Why does tracking your sleep matter? As Vanessa Hill, PhD, sleep research and specialist, explains, "Tracking your sleep can offer helpful insights into what happens after your head hits the pillow. For many of us, sleep can feel poor quality, maybe because of fragmented sleep or nighttime awakenings. Tracking can show whether you're actually getting the recommended 7 to 9 hours a night." Observing your biosignals over time helps explain how your habits and lifestyle impact your sleep quality and patterns. For instance, my sleep quality on nights after consuming alcohol, not exercising during the day or going to bed later than usual is always worse, and it's reflected in my lower HRV numbers on both trackers. "What's more valuable than a single night's data is looking at sleep trends over time. A month or more of sleep tracking gives a better picture of your overall sleep health," adds Hill. If you're just beginning your sleep tracking journey, making sense of all the numbers can be overwhelming. Nunez recommends starting with the following basics to help you build a consistent sleep routine and improve your sleep health overall: Sleep-wake times: Track what time you go to bed and wake up each day. Research shows that a consistent sleep schedule is key to improved focus, productivity and mood. Track what time you go to bed and wake up each day. Research shows that a consistent sleep schedule is key to improved focus, productivity and mood. Total sleep duration: Aim for the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Aim for the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Time awake during the night: Frequent disruptions may signal restlessness or a potential health condition worth exploring with a medical professional. Frequent disruptions may signal restlessness or a potential health condition worth exploring with a medical professional. Sleep interruptions: Noting events like snoring or movement can provide added context to your sleep quality. Noting events like snoring or movement can provide added context to your sleep quality. Trends over time: Focus on patterns, not a single night's data, to make more meaningful lifestyle changes. What sleep tracker should you use? The type of sleep tracker you should use largely depends on your personal preferences and the health information you're looking to uncover. If you're not a fan of wearing a device to bed, such as a wristband or ring, consider a sleep-tracking mattress cover or pad like the Withings Sleep Tracking Mat, which was chosen as the best non-wearable tracker by our CNET sleep editors. There are many types of sleep trackers on the market, as CNET sleep editor Caroline Igo shows here. Caroline Igo/CNET Nunez explains, 'When considering a sleep tracker, it's important to note there is no one-size-fits-all. When choosing one, you can consider: Comfort: You need to be able to easily sleep in it consistently. You need to be able to easily sleep in it consistently. Compatibility: Check that it works well with your smartphone or other devices to access the data without challenges. Check that it works well with your smartphone or other devices to access the data without challenges. Reliability: Some devices have been well-tested and approved by the FDA for sleep monitoring, while others are more general consumer products. Some devices have been well-tested and approved by the FDA for sleep monitoring, while others are more general consumer products. Privacy: Understand how your data is stored and shared. Ultimately, the best tracker is one you'll wear regularly, and that makes accessing and understanding your data simple.' The bottom line If you have a Sleep Number bed and are wondering how accurate the sensors are, I'm pleased to share that they appear pretty dang precise. I had not been expecting the results of this 30-night comparison between the Oura Ring 4 and Sleep Number ClimateCool smart bed to be so similar. Still, there's much more room for error with trackers like smart beds and mattress covers compared to a wearable worn tightly on your body. If you're looking for one of the more accurate sleep trackers, I recommend opting for a wearable like Oura or Whoop -- but as Hill put it, "Choosing a sleep tracker really comes down to comfort and budget. Choose what works best for you, including something you'll actually use."
