A term you're sure to come across when shopping for the best bed sheets is 'thread count'. The thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads per square inch of fabric, and higher thread counts often indicate softer high-end sheets. However, there is a happy medium at around 400-600 thread count that will give you a good balance between quality and price.

Flannel is generally made with either a twill or percale weave. The fabric is then napped to hide the weave. Napping is a finishing technique that gives flannel that signature fluffy, fuzzy feel. Flannel can be napped on just one side, or it can be double-napped, meaning both sides of the fabric are napped, for extra softness. Flannel is also often sheared after napping for a smoother texture.