Sleep plays a crucial role in our physical and mental wellbeing. Unfortunately, even when we do manage to go to bed on time, we don’t always fall asleep — or sleep very well. Poor sleep can result from a number of reasons, but uncomfortable, itchy sheets shouldn’t be one of them. Flannel sheets are some of the softest sheets on the market. They’re also warm and relatively inexpensive, which explains why so many people choose flannel sheets over cotton, linen, and even silk sheets.
Still, with so many options out there, finding the best flannel sheets can be tough. To make the whole process a little easier, we reviewed dozens of flannel sheets to find the ones that will make you excited to go to bed. During our research, we considered factors such as fabric type and where the fabric was made as well as warmth, softness, weight, price, and color and pattern options (contrary to popular belief, flannel sheets don’t come in plaid print only!). We also looked at how much the sheets pill and how likely they are to fit your mattress.
After careful consideration, we chose the Mellanni 100% Cotton Flannel Sheet Set as our top choice. Weighing 160 grams per square meter (GSM), these double-napped 100% cotton flannel sheets feel super soft and cozy and fit mattresses that are up to 16 inches deep. Available in a variety of sizes and colors, these sheets get over 3,000 reviews (the vast majority of which are positive) on Amazon and come with a lifetime guarantee.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Flannel Sheets
Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
---|---|---|
Best Flannel Sheets Overall | Mellani 100% Cotton Flannel Sheet Set | 4.1 |
Best Year-Round Flannel Sheets | Stone & Beam Rustic Buffalo Check Flannel Bed Sheet Set | 4.8 |
Best Budget Flannel Sheets | True North by Sleep Philosophy Sheet Set | 4.5 |
Best Heavyweight Flannel Sheets | Pinzon Signature Cotton Heavyweight Velvet Flannel Sheet Set | 4.7 |
Best Deep Pocket Flannel Sheets | Pinzon 160 Gram Plaid Flannel Sheet Set | 4.6 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Flannel Sheets Overall: Mellanni 100% Cotton Flannel Sheet Set
When it comes to finding a great set of flannel sheets, the Mellani 100% Cotton Flannel Sheet Set ticks all the right boxes. This bed sheet set is highly rated yet inexpensive and even comes with a lifetime manufacturer guarantee. The flannel weighs 160 grams per square meter (GSM) and is made from 100% cotton. Because the sheets have a double-napped finish on both sides, they feel super velvety.
The sheets come in twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king sizes. For reference, the queen set comes with a flat sheet (measuring 90 inches by 102 inches), a fitted sheet (60 inches by 80 inches) with elastic all around, and two pillowcases (20 inches by 30 inches). Since these sheets are “deep pocket sheets,” they can fit mattresses that are up to 16 inches deep.
Additionally, these sheets come in a wide range of colors, including blue, gray, burgundy, pink, sage, beige, and white, as well as an assortment of patterns, like light blue plaid and blue and gray snowflakes. The colors don’t fade even after multiple washes. However, the first few times you dry the sheets, they’ll shed quite a bit. Nevertheless, Mellani is so confident you’ll love this set that they offer a lifetime manufacturer guarantee. All you have to do is send them an email and they’ll give you a full refund — no questions asked.
Mellani 100% Cotton Flannel Sheet Set Key Features:
- 100% cotton
- Double-napped finish
- 160 GSM flannel
- Twin to California king
- Variety of colors and patterns
- Fits mattresses up to 16 inches thick
- Lifetime manufacturer warranty
Best Year-Round Flannel Sheets: Stone & Beam Rustic Buffalo Check Flannel Bed Sheet Set
If you’re on the lookout for bed sheets that will keep you cool during the summer and warm during the winter, look no further than the Stone & Beam Rustic Buffalo Check Flannel Bed Sheet Set. Although a bit pricey, these cozy flannel bed sheets get an almost perfect rating on Amazon. The flannel sheets, which are made from 100% cotton and have a double-napped finish, are not only breathable but also super soft.
Made in Portugal, the set is available in multiple sizes, such as twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king. The queen set, for example, consists of a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and two pillowcases. The top sheet measures 105 inches by 87 inches, whereas the pillowcases measure 20 inches by 30 inches. If you need more pillows, you can buy a separate pillowcase set (these come in two sizes — standard and king).
This particular set comes in red and black plaid print. However, the set is available in a ton of other color combinations as well, like black and white, blue and green, gray and red, ivory and cream, and gray and red. Both sides of the sheets are patterned. The sheets come in a reusable cloth drawstring bag for easy storage.
Stone & Beam Rustic Buffalo Check Flannel Bed Sheet Set Key Features:
- Made in Portugal
- 100% cotton
- Double-napped
- Twin to California king
- Multiple color combinations
- Includes reusable cloth drawstring bag
Best Budget Flannel Sheets: True North by Sleep Philosophy Sheet Set
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a high-quality set of flannel sheets. The True North by Sleep Philosophy Sheet Set is cheaper than most similar flannel bed sheet sets on the market, but the sheets feel and look luxurious nonetheless. That’s because the 100% cotton sheets are made from 160 GSM flannel and are brushed on both sides. All this makes the sheets feel soft to the touch and exceptionally warm (perfect for chilly winter nights!) but not too bulky.
These sheets suit various bed sizes, including twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king. The queen set includes a flat sheet (which measures 90 inches by 102 inches), a fitted sheet (60 inches by 80 inches), and two standard pillowcases (20 inches by 30 inches).
The sheets also come in a vast selection of prints, including black dogs, blue plaid, multi-forest animals, sand owls, and blue polar bears. The only downside is that the prints are one-sided. Also, these sheets aren’t available in many solid colors. For example, you can’t get these sheets in white — just blue. That being said, the sheets wash well (just remember to wash them in cold water) and don’t shrink.
True North by Sleep Philosophy Sheet Set Key Features:
- 100% cotton
- 160 grams flannel
- Twin to California king
- Double brushed
- Available in many patterns
Best Heavyweight Flannel Sheets: Pinzon Signature Cotton Heavyweight Velvet Flannel Sheet Set
For thick flannel sheets that will keep you warm even during frosty winter nights, check out the Pinzon Signature Cotton Heavyweight Velvet Flannel Sheet Set. Manufactured in Portugal, these 190 GSM flannel sheets are made from 100% combed cotton and have a double-napped finish on both sides, which is what makes the sheets feel so soft, supple, and warm. However, the sheets are also breathable, so you’re unlikely to wake up at night soaked in sweat.
These sheets are available in large sizes only, namely queen, king, and California king. Like pretty much every other bed sheet set out there, the Queen bed sheet set consists of a flat sheet (measuring 90 inches long and 108 inches wide), fitted sheet (60 inches by 80 inches), and two pillowcases (20 inches by 30 inches). The flat sheet and pillowcases are designed to have a four-inch hem. The fitted sheet is supposed to fit mattresses up to 17 inches thick.
The sheets come in several colors, such as white, cream, aubergine, chamois, graphite, Italian roast, smokey blue and thyme green, and a few patterns, including floral amethyst, floral graphite, and floral smoky blue. If you want to, you can buy extra pillowcases and a matching duvet cover, too. The sheets launder easily, shed very little, and are super durable. They remain soft to the touch and snuggly after multiple washes.
Pinzon Signature Cotton Heavyweight Velvet Flannel Sheet Set Key Features:
- 190 GSM flannel
- 100% cotton
- Double-napped finish
- Queen to California king
- Fit mattresses up to 17 inches high
- Variety of colors and patterns
Best Deep Pocket Flannel Sheets: Pinzon 160-Gram Plaid Flannel Sheet Set
Tired of your bed sheets coming off? With the Pinzon 160-Gram Plaid Flannel Sheet Set, you don’t have to worry about waking up in the middle of the night with your bed sheets tangled underneath you ever again. That’s because these deep pocket sheets fit mattresses up to 16 inches deep (although one customer said that the sheets fit her 18 inches thick mattress).
Featuring double-napped finish, these 160 GSM velvet flannel sheets are made from 100% cotton in Portugal. The sheets are soft, smooth, and breathable. They’re available in twin, twin XL, full, standard, queen, king, and California king sizes. The queen set gets you a flat sheet (which measures 87 inches by 105 inches), a fitted sheet with elastic (60 inches by 80 inches), and two pillowcases (20 inches by 31 inches). The flat sheet and pillowcases have a four-inch hem. You can buy a pillowcase set separately and a matching duvet cover, as well.
The sheets come in seven classic plaid prints, like Black Watch plaid, Bordeaux plaid, brown plaid, cream/blue stripe plaid, cream/red plaid, dark red/grey plaid, and grey plaid. The sheets don’t shrink or pill, even when you wash them (if you remember to add vinegar, at least).
Pinzon 160-Gram Plaid Flannel Sheet Set Key Features:
- 160 GSM flannel
- Made in Portugal
- Fit mattresses that are up to 16 inches thick
- 100% cotton
- Twin to California king
- 7 plaid prints
Who Should Buy Flannel Sheets
If you live in an area where it gets cold during the winter months, you should invest in a flannel sheet set. After all, there’s a good reason why so many people reach for flannel sheets when the temperature drops.
While there’s nothing like slipping into crisp, cool sheets in the summer months, in the winter, you want to be as snug as possible, as fast as possible. Flannel, a woven fabric that is brushed (or napped) to create a fuzzy surface that traps warm air, serves as an excellent insulator and lets you achieve that cozy feeling that can only be found on chilly winter evenings — without the heaviness of a comforter.
However, flannel sheets aren’t necessarily just for winter. If you sleep cold, you might want to sleep in flannel sheets all the time. And don’t worry about night sweats! Most flannel is breathable, so if you buy a high-quality flannel sheet set, you can be more or less guaranteed that the sheets will allow for air circulation and will wick away any moisture before it penetrates the sheets and gives you that awful cold sweat feeling.
Because flannel is so soft, flannel bed sheets are also great for people with skin conditions, such as eczema.
Other things you might want to purchase for your home include the best bidet toilet seats and the best space heaters.
Important Features to Consider
Here are some of the things you should pay attention to when choosing the best flannel sheets:
- Type. There are two main types of flannel out there: cotton flannel and micro flannel. Cotton flannel is obviously made from cotton, whereas micro flannel is made from polyester. Cotton flannel is usually more expensive than micro flannel, but it breathes better. Micro flannel, on the other hand, is easier to maintain and is more durable.
- Country of origin. Some of the best flannel sheets are made either in Portugal or Germany. Portuguese flannel is especially popular.
- Warmth. Flannel sheets should keep you warm and toasty, even in the dead of winter. Flannel napped on both sides is typically warmer than flannel napped on just one side (the latter is known as a flannelette).
- Softness. High-quality flannel sheets should feel soft and fuzzy not only right after you take them out of the package, but after you wash them, too.
- Weight. Forget thread count. When you’re looking to buy flannel sheets, take note of the fabric’s weight, which is usually listed in ounces per square yard or grams per square meter (GSM). The heavier the flannel, the warmer the sheets will be.
- Pilling. With flannel sheets, pilling is inevitable. However, good flannel sheets should stop shedding after several washes. If they don’t, the sheets will likely thin out or lose their softness.
- Deep pockets. Deep pockets are standard with most flannel bed sheets today. Nevertheless, not all sheets will fit a mattress that is 16 inches deep (or even deeper), so be sure to check out just how deep those pockets are.
- Design. Flannel sheets come in a ton of colors, patterns, and designs. Plaid is particularly popular, as are winter-themed prints. That being said, it’s not impossible to find more minimalist designs.
- Warranty. Many flannel sheets come with a money-back guarantee. If you’re unsure whether flannel sheets are right for you, make sure that the set you pick out has a good return policy.
- Price. The price of flannel sheets ranges quite a lot and often, depends on the material and finishing techniques used (whether the sheets are napped or double-napped, for example).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are flannel sheets made of?
When flannel was first introduced, it was made almost exclusively from wool. Nowadays, flannel sheets are made mostly from cotton or polyester.
What is the best weight for flannel sheets?
When it comes to flannel sheets, thread count doesn’t matter. Instead, you’re looking at the weight of the flannel. Typically, the heavier the flannel sheet, the higher-quality it’s going to be. Heavier flannel sheets are also warmer and last longer.
Is flannel warmer than cotton?
Yes, flannel is warmer than cotton. That’s because the brushed surface (fuzz) on flannel sheets traps air, which acts as insulation in keeping body heat in and cold air out.
Do flannel sheets make you hot?
Flannel sheets are breathable, so you’re unlikely to get too hot at night time. However, if you sleep hot, you should avoid flannel sheets and opt for bed sheets made from linen or bamboo instead.
Other Flannel Sheets We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other flannel sheets. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best flannel sheets list, they are the best of the rest and each is still a great option. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included in the listing.
Year-Round Flannel Sheets
Morgan Home Fashions Cotton Turkish Flannel Sheets
Perfect for summer and winter, the Morgan Home Fashions Cotton Turkish Flannel Sheets are soft and breathable and come with a five-year warranty.
Key Features:
- Twin to king
- Multiple colors and plaid patterns
- 100% cotton
- Fits mattresses up to 16 inches thick
- 5-year warranty
Cost: $85
FEATHER & STITCH NEW YORK Cotton Flannel Sheets
The FEATHER & STITCH NEW YORK Cotton Flannel Sheets have a lifetime guarantee, so there’s essentially no risk in buying this set.
Key Features:
- Twin to queen
- 2 patterns (Anders plaid and red polka dot)
- 100% cotton
- 170 GSM flannel
- Double-napped on both sides
- Lifetime guarantee
Cost: $23
Ruvanti 100% Cotton Flannel Bed Sheets Set
These sheets by Ruvanti not only look beautiful but actually get softer after each wash.
Key Features:
- Full to king
- 2 floral patterns
- 100% cotton
- 170 GSM flannel
- Fit mattresses up to 16 inches deep
- Money-back guarantee
Cost: $40
Thermee Micro Flannel Sheet Set
Micro flannel fabric sheets combine the luxurious feel of high-quality cotton flannel sheets with the simple care benefits of polyester fleece.
Key Features:
- Micro flannel
- Twin to California king
- 20 colors
- Fits mattresses up to 14 inches deep
- Anti-shrink and anti-pill
Cost: $65
Great Bay Home 100% Turkish Cotton Flannel Sheet Set
Soft and thick, these bed sheets by Great Bay Home will keep you warm in winter and cool in summer.
Key Features:
- Twin to California king
- 15 patterns
- 100% Turkish cotton
- 170 GSM flannel
- Fit mattresses up to 17 inches deep
- 3-year warranty
Heavyweight Flannel Sheets
These heavy flannel sheets by Bare Home come in multiple sizes, including full XL and split king size.
Key Features:
- Twin to split king
- 11 solid colors including white
- Double brushed
- Fits mattresses 6 to 15 inches deep
- Includes eco-friendly reusable tote packaging
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cost: $40
Royal Tradition Heavyweight Flannel Bed Sheets Set
Because these flannel sheets by Royal Tradition have a fabric rating of 170 GMS, they’re long-lasting, soft, and warm.
Key Features:
- Twin XL to California king
- 6 solid colors
- 170 GSM flannel
- Elasticized fitted sheet fits mattresses up to 15 inches deep
Cost: $50
Pointehaven Heavyweight Printed Flannel Sheet Set
Choose from six fun patterns, including metro stripe, paisley sage, snowflake multi-color, snowflakes oatmeal, snowflakes multi-color, and snowflakes white.
Key Features:
- 100% cotton
- 170 GMS flannel
- Twin to California king
- Fun patterns
Cost: $50
Genteele 100% Cotton Flannel Sheet Set
If you don’t love the Genteele 100% Cotton Flannel Sheet Set, the company will give you a full refund.
Key Features:
- Twin XL to king
- 4 colors (camel, grey, ivory, and navy)
- 100% cotton
- 190 GSM flannel
- Fits mattresses up to 16 inches deep
- Money-back guarantee
Cost: $24
MALOUF Heavyweight Portuguese Flannel Sheet Set
Want to avoid that annoying fuzz that always seems to appear on flannel sheets? These sheets by MALOUF have a durable fiber structure that reduces pilling and lint.
Key Features:
- Queen to California king
- 4 colors (white, pacific, oatmeal, coffee)
- Double brushed 100% cotton
Cost: $170
Deep Pockets Flannel Sheets
AmazonBasics Everyday Flannel Bed Sheet Set
Customers claim that these lightweight, deep pocket AmazonBasics flannel bed sheets fit a 16-inch mattress.
Key Features:
- Twin to California king
- 5 colors (beige, grey, navy, taupe, and white)
- 100% cotton
- 155 GSM flannel
- Triple-napped on the outside and double-napped on the inside
- Deep pockets
Cost: $30
The Bedsure Flannel Sheet Set, which fits 14-inch mattresses, is so soft you’ll have a hard time getting out of bed in the mornings.
Key Features:
- 2 sizes (twin and queen)
- 2 colors (off-white and light gray)
- 160 GSM brushed microfiber fabric
- Elasticized fitted sheet fits 14 inches mattress
Cost: $45
Superior 100% Brushed Cotton Flannel Bedding Sheet Set
The deep pocket sheets by Superior pull down easily over the corners of an 18-inch mattress.
Key Features:
- Twin to California king
- 8 solid colors and 6 patterns
- 100% cotton
- Fits mattresses up to 18 inches deep
Cost: $35
Woolrich 100% Cotton Flannel Sheet Set
From charming plaid patterns to seasonal designs to whimsical prints (we hope you like dogs), these sheets from Woolrich will brighten up your bedroom.
Key Features:
- Twin to California king
- 17 patterns
- 100% cotton
- 160 GSM flannel
- Elasticated fitted sheet fits mattresses up to 14 inches thick
Cost: $35
Whisper Organics Certified Organic Cotton Flannel Sheet Set
These sheets by Whisper Organics, which come in four natural colors, are free of harsh chemical dyes.
Key Features:
- Twin to California king
- 4 colors (white, natural, dark grey, aubergine)
- 100% cotton
- 170 GSM flannel
- 90-day satisfaction guarantee
Cost: $90
Laura Ashley Home Flannel Sheet Set
Elegant, soft, and heavyweight, this Laura Ashley Home Flannel Sheet Set is a steal.
Key Features:
- Twin to king
- Elegant print
- 100% cotton
- 160 GSM flannel
- Fits 15-inch mattresses
Cost: $40
Brielle 100-Percent Cotton Flannel Sheet Set
These super soft and snuggly sheets by Brielle fit mattresses that are up to 17 inches thick.
Key Features:
- Twin to California king
- 17 colors and patterns
- 100% brushed cotton
- Elasticated fitted sheets fit 17-inch mattresses
Cost: $35
Tribeca Living Paisley Garden Printed Deep Pocket Flannel Sheet Set
Although quite expensive, the Tribeca Living sheets will last you at least several years, if not more.
Key Features:
- Twin to California king
- Multi-color paisley print
- 100% cotton
- Extra deep pocket
- 170 GSM flannel
Cost: $65
Eddie Bauer Beacon Hill Flannel Sheet Set
Eddie Bauer uses an 8-stage brushing process to stop these heavyweight sheets, which easily cover a 16-inch mattress, from pilling.
Key Features:
- Twin to full
- 100% cotton
- Elasticized fitted sheet fits a 16-inch mattress
- Brushed to reduce pilling
Cost: $50
Made from microfiber, the thick and soft MARQUESS sheets fit both regular and extra-thick mattresses.
Key Features:
- Twin XL to king
- 4 colors and one-sided patterns (blue, charcoal, navy blue, stripes)
- Double-napped
- Microfiber
- Fits 16-inch mattresses
Cost: $30