When it comes to the best fabrics for bed sheets, cotton and linen are the undisputed frontrunners. The reason for their popularity is that both are natural fibers and possess qualities such as high absorbency and breathability that make them the perfect choice for bedding. But determining which one is best for you is not as easy as it may seem. Picking the right set of bedsheets is a personal decision that has a lot to do with the kind of sleeper you are and the aesthetics you’d like your bedroom to evoke. The textiles manufactured from cotton and linen deliver two distinct experiences both in terms of style and feel.

A bottom sheet, or fitted sheet, is the sheet with the elastic edge that fits over your mattress—hence the name bottom or fitted sheet. As today's mattresses have grown much thicker, it's important to check the measurements before buying a fitted sheet to make sure it will stretch all the way over your mattress.