Top 10 Deep Pocket Sheets: Tested and Reviewed

Best Overall

It's not every day that our Best Overall pick is also the most budget-friendly, but the Threshold 400 Thread Count Solid Performance Sheet Set checks both boxes. We were impressed with its sturdiness, comfort, and breathability. The fitted sheet fits mattresses up to 18 inches deep, and the elastic corners keep it in place as you sleep. The "top" and "bottom" tags made it easy to place the sheets correctly from the start. Our only minor complaint is that the pillowcases could use a little extra width.

Made from 100% cotton, these sheets offer a medium level of density. The fabric is soft to the touch, with a feel more akin to flannel than to plush. Unlike many other sheet sets that lose their comfort after several washes, these sheets retained their softness. After two months of use, they still felt fresh and maintained their texture. No shrinkage or pilling occurred, and the elastic kept its hold. Even our lotion stain washed out easily.

In addition to their soft feel, these sheets excel in breathability. They offer a cool, fresh sensation that we found both crisp and welcoming. While lounging in jeans, socks, and a t-shirt, they kept us cozy without causing any overheating. Even on hot nights, we stayed sweat-free. Overall, they performed exceptionally well, and their budget-friendly price, paired with Target's 365-day return policy, makes them an even more attractive buy.

Material: Cotton | Sizes: Twin-California king | Pocket Depth: 18 inches | Thread Count: 400

Top Cooling Option

For those who tend to overheat at night, these cooling sheets from Tempur-Pedic provided us with a refreshing sleep experience throughout the night. Made from Tencel fibers, they offered a crisp, cooling sensation, and their moisture-wicking capabilities are enhanced by Refibra technology. Although a warm spot formed under us after a few minutes, it quickly dissipated once we shifted, leaving us sweat-free throughout the night.

Unlike many cooling sheets that feel light as air, these sheets have a plush texture that's smooth yet slightly heavier than standard silk. This added weight helps keep them in place on the bed, preventing slippage. During our stain test, coffee and oil stains came out easily, although foundation stains took a bit more effort. Still, we were happy to see that the sheets maintained their quality and softness after months of washing.

These sheets fit mattresses up to 16 inches deep without any trouble. The fitted sheet easily slipped under our mattress, and the thick elastic band kept it securely in place. Although we observed some loose threads along the stitching on both the fitted and flat sheets, this did not affect the overall quality or durability of the set. After two months of use, we only experienced one instance where a corner came loose from the mattress.

Material: Tencel | Size Range: Queen, King | Pocket Depth: 16 inches | Thread Count: 400

Top Percale Choice

These sheets immediately impressed us with their craftsmanship. There were no loose threads or signs of fading upon arrival, reflecting their high-quality design. The feel of the sheets was luxurious, much more than what their reasonable price would suggest. They feature a broad elastic band that ensures they stay in place, even with restless sleepers tossing and turning. Additional corner bands keep the sheets securely fastened throughout the night.

Constructed with a percale weave, these sheets have a crisp, cool texture. While opinions on their softness were divided, everyone agreed on their breathability. Some felt they were slightly rough, but others found them pleasantly soft. Regardless of texture, their lightweight nature kept us cool and sweat-free overnight, making them an excellent choice for warmer months and all-season use.

After six months of use, these sheets still maintain their original softness. They fit the mattress perfectly, even with the addition of a mattress pad. No signs of wear, such as loose threads or tears, have appeared. The only downside we encountered was that sweat stains remained visible after multiple washes.

Material: Supima cotton | Size Range: Twin to California King | Pocket Depth: 18 inches | Thread Count: 250

Top Sateen

Lands’ End might not be your first thought for buttery soft, luxurious sheets, but their sateen sheet set proves otherwise. We absolutely loved the soft, silky feel of these sheets, which are lightweight yet surprisingly durable. They rank among the highest-quality sheets we've had the pleasure of testing.

So, what makes these sheets stand out? First off, they're crafted from American-grown Supima cotton, a long-staple variety known for producing soft, lustrous sheets—one of the most luxurious cotton types worldwide. Thanks to the sateen weave, these sheets have a silk-like sheen and a crispness that feels great against your skin. During testing, we found them soft, cool, and inviting. They kept us comfortable throughout the night without causing sweating, and they only got softer with time. The sheets also boast impressive breathability, which isn’t typical for sateen. Even after six months of use, their luxurious feel and comfort remained intact.

The flat and fitted sheets provide ample fabric, fitting mattresses up to 18 inches deep. The corners of the fitted sheet stayed snug, even through restless sleep. However, we noticed they tend to wrinkle more easily than other sheets, so it's best to remove them promptly from the dryer. Otherwise, enjoy the luxurious feel and appearance of your new sateen sheets, and get ready to dread leaving your bed in the morning.

Material: Cotton sateen | Size Range: Twin to split king | Pocket Depth: 18 inches | Thread Count: 400

Best Linen

Crafted from luxurious European flax, this Quince sheet set is designed for comfort all year long. Linen is known for its ability to regulate temperature, keeping you cool in the heat and warm in the cold, while offering a relaxed, lived-in aesthetic. The fitted sheet has plenty of fabric to fit mattresses up to 16 inches deep.

Linen becomes softer with each wash, a fact we've experienced firsthand. After just a few washes, these sheets transformed into an incredibly soft option, perfect for those new to linen. While they softened, they also thinned a bit after six months of use, which could suggest some wear. Still, their lightness makes them an excellent choice for hot summer nights.

An additional point to consider is that the pillowcases in this set are quite large, and without an envelope closure, they tend to slip off during the night. Despite this, we still feel this sheet set is an ideal introduction to linen, offering softness from the get-go and requiring no break-in period.

Material: European flax | Size Range: Twin to California king | Pocket Depth: 16 inches | Thread Count: Not listed

Top Bamboo

Hot sleepers will appreciate the cooling, silky, and luxurious feel this sheet set offers. Crafted from bamboo viscose, similar to lyocell, these sheets regulate temperature all night, drawing moisture away to prevent night sweats. They remain pleasantly cool to the touch, even after long periods of sleep.

During testing, we were captivated by the soft and silky texture of these sheets. Making the bed was effortless, too. The fitted sheet stretches to fit mattresses up to 20 inches deep—the deepest of any set on our list—and fit our mattress perfectly. While a few of us noticed slight shrinkage after washing, the extra-deep pockets ensured that the fit remained unchanged. We were also pleased to find that the sheets stayed wrinkle-free after laundering. 

After six months of continuous use and biweekly washes, the only sign of wear was a few loose threads. However, we advise pet owners to be cautious, as the fabric can snag on sharp claws. While this sheet set is on the pricier side, indulging in hotel-quality linens is a worthwhile investment, particularly as they can improve your sleep quality. 

Material: Bamboo viscose | Size Range: Twin to split king | Pocket Depth: 20 inches | Thread Count: Not listed

Top Eucalyptus

These sheets are very soft, silky, and cool to the touch. The fitted sheet can fit mattresses up to 18 inches in depth, and the sateen weave brings a luxe vibe to any bed. The flat sheet also has decorative stitching on the outside, a small touch that nevertheless impressed us. 

These sheets are crafted from eucalyptus-derived Tencel, a silky and cooling material that is also hypoallergenic. They kept their smooth texture even after multiple washes, and we felt that their luxurious feel was a step above other options, especially given their budget-friendly price. We also didn’t spot any fraying or signs of wear, making this set a solid choice for durability.

Although eucalyptus is known for its temperature-regulating properties, we found these sheets to be more suited for winter rather than summer. After using them for six months, we noticed that, while they felt warm in the summer, they helped us maintain a comfortable temperature once the weather cooled down. So while they might not be ideal for a summer heatwave, they are perfect for those who sleep hot year-round and need sheets that offer just the right warmth in colder months.

Material: Tencel lyocell | Size Range: Twin to California king | Pocket Depth: 18 inches | Thread Count: 300

Best Organic

While these Boll & Branch sheets are on the pricier side, their exceptional quality and craftsmanship make them a worthwhile investment. GOTS-certified organic, they adhere to strict ecological and labor standards throughout the production process, ensuring they’re beneficial for both the environment and you.

Crafted from incredibly soft cotton, these sheets feature a slightly heavier weight, highlighting the fabric's premium quality. Despite being denser than other options, they remain breathable and comfortable to sleep under, whether it's summer or winter.

The fitted sheet accommodates mattresses up to 17 inches deep and fits perfectly on our beds. After numerous washes and nights of use, these sheets have stayed in impeccable condition without pilling or loose threads, only becoming softer over time. If the price doesn't deter you, these thick, durable sheets will add a touch of luxury to your bed all year long.

Material: Organic cotton | Size Range: Twin to split king | Pocket Depth: 17 inches | Thread Count: Not provided

Top Flannel

Peacock Alley's flannel sheet set is an excellent choice for those who appreciate extra warmth. Constructed from 100% long-staple Egyptian cotton, these sheets offer a buttery smooth texture, while the brushed finish adds to the cozy factor. Designed to fit mattresses up to 17 inches deep, they feature durable elastic around the edges for a secure fit. Compared to other options, these sheets are heavier, providing excellent warmth, though they lack some of the breathability found in other alternatives.

After a couple of washes and two months of regular use, these sheets did pill, but that’s a typical issue with flannel sheets, and a fabric shaver easily solves it. Despite the pilling, the sheets retain their softness and don’t have the rough feel that some flannel varieties do. They are perfect for those who want a warm, cozy sleep experience, especially for people who tend to feel cold at night or prefer thicker, snugly sheets for winter.

Material: Egyptian cotton | Size Range: Twin to California king | Pocket Depth: 17 inches | Thread Count: Not available; 200 GSM

Best Selection of Colors

For an affordable yet vibrant sheet set to elevate your bedding, the California Design Den Cotton Sateen Sheets are an excellent choice. Made from cotton with a sateen weave, these sheets offer both luxury and value. They fit mattresses up to 16 inches deep and feature durable corner elastics to keep them securely in place. Additionally, they come in a variety of colors and patterns to suit any decor style. 

We were impressed by the craftsmanship of these sheets, which showed no signs of snagging, pilling, or loose threads during testing. The stitching was high quality, holding up perfectly throughout two months of use. Stains were easy to remove, even jojoba oil stains, which came out completely with a simple wash. Although these sheets weren't as smooth as some alternatives, we appreciated their slightly heavier weight compared to similar products. 

While these sheets are breathable and comfortable, they aren't specifically designed for cooling. If you're seeking sheets to help regulate temperature during hot summer nights, you might want to explore other options. They did wrinkle a bit after washing, but if you're after durable, affordable cotton sheets, these are a solid choice. 

Material: Cotton sateen | Size Range: Twin to split king | Pocket Depth: 16 inches | Thread Count: 400

Final Verdict

Our top pick, the Threshold 400 Thread Count Performance Solid Sheet Set, is durable, breathable, and soft. With a generous pocket depth of 18 inches, it's sure to stay secure on your bed, even as you toss and turn. For a more budget-friendly option, we recommend the California Design Den Cotton Sheets for their durability and high quality for their price point. 

Our Testing Methodology

So far, we have tested over 200 sheet sets in our Des Moines lab as well as in our homes. Every sheet we’ve examined underwent a thorough testing process to assess its quality, texture, breathability, fit, and long-term performance.

During our lab tests, we began by measuring each sheet set and inspecting its quality right out of the box before the first wash. Then, we stained the sheets with coffee, oil, and foundation before washing them twice more. Afterward, we closely examined each sheet for loose threads, snags, discolorations, and other defects. We also re-measured the sheets to check for any shrinkage.

To test breathability, we performed a water test. Each sheet set was placed in an embroidery hoop, and using a dropper, we added a single drop of water to the taut fabric. We recorded how quickly the water expanded within 10 seconds, noting that a fast, larger expansion indicates better moisture management by the fabric.

Next, we made a bed with each sheet set, observing the ease of the process. Finally, we tested durability by rubbing sandpaper on the sheet. We held the fabric taut and ran the sandpaper back and forth 25 times over a 5-inch section to check for any signs of abrasion.

Once the lab tests were finished, we took the sheets home for real-world testing, assessing their durability over six months of use. Combining our lab findings with our long-term observations, we created a list of the best deep pocket sheets.

Expert Guide for Shopping Deep Pocket Sheets

Fabric Type

Material isn't as crucial when it comes to deep pocket sheets, as no fabric is naturally more stretchable than others. Ultimately, it comes down to what you personally prefer.

"Different sheets provide distinct experiences, and it all boils down to two key factors—raw material and weave," Tannen explains. Cotton sheets are a timeless choice due to their breathability and comfort. Organic cotton sheets are even better, offering greater durability than their non-organic counterparts and being more environmentally friendly. Linen is also gaining popularity for its temperature-regulating qualities. "Flax, used to make linen, is unique because it doesn't need synthetic pesticides to grow, yielding high-quality fibers with natural cooling properties," says Tannen.

Another favored sheet material besides cotton and linen is Tencel, which is the brand name for lyocell. Tencel is derived from wood chips that are processed into a smooth, silky fabric. It’s known for its cooling properties, making it an excellent choice for hot sleepers. Tencel is also moisture-wicking and hypoallergenic, and while it’s durable and resistant to pilling, it tends to be on the pricier side.

The weave of your sheets also plays a significant role in how they feel. While shopping, you'll encounter terms like sateen, percale, and flannel, each with its own distinct weave. Sateen offers a lightweight warmth that's ideal for year-round comfort, easily pairing with both warmer and cooler top layers. Percale weaves are tighter and more structured than sateen, creating a crisp, cool fabric that’s perfect for hot sleepers. For those who feel chilly at night, flannel sheets provide a cozy, warmer sleep experience.

Depth of Pocket

Typically, deep pocket sheets fit mattresses ranging from 13 to 17 inches tall, while extra deep pocket sheets accommodate mattresses exceeding 18 inches in height. Before buying deep pocket sheets, measure your mattress's depth. Don't forget that a mattress topper could add a few extra inches to its height.

When shopping for deep pocket sheets, Tannen emphasizes that the elastic banding can significantly affect your comfort and ease of making the bed. Some sheets may feel firm initially, but over time, they lose their elasticity, causing the fitted sheet to slip off or fail to stay securely in place. It's essential to ensure your deep pocket sheets use high-quality elastic for a snug fit.

Thread Count

Tannen reveals a bedding industry secret: "Thread count is actually a myth. It’s one of the biggest myths in the bedding world, and it's been widely promoted for years." She explains that thread count simply refers to the density of the fabric—the number of threads both vertically and horizontally per square inch. Generally, higher thread counts mean denser fabric.

However, denser sheets don’t necessarily equate to better comfort or breathability. Instead of focusing on thread count, Tannen advises researching the fabric's manufacturing process, conditions, and raw materials. "Your sheets should feel soft and breathable, so it's more important to prioritize thread quality over thread count," she suggests.

More Deep Pocket Sheets to Consider

Dreamcare Eucalyptus Sheets: The softness and weight of these sheets really impressed us. They were also quite breathable when sleeping under them. However, we noticed a lower quality than anticipated, with numerous loose threads right out of the package.

Vermont Country Store Cotton Flannel Sheets: These flannel sheets are among the softest we’ve ever experienced, maintaining their warmth and coziness after two months of use. Unfortunately, the sides started slipping off our mattress over time, giving them a less neat appearance.

Questions You Might Ask 

What is considered a deep pocket fitted sheet?

A deep pocket sheet typically fits mattresses that are between 13 and 18 inches in height, though Tannen recommends avoiding the smaller range to ensure a good fit, especially if you have a mattress topper. It's wise to measure your mattress depth and check the product's dimensions to make sure it will work. Don’t forget to account for a few extra inches if you have a mattress topper. If your mattress is over 18 inches, you might need extra-deep pocket sheets instead.

Can you put deep pocket sheets on a regular mattress?

Yes, you can. "I personally prefer a deep pocket sheet no matter what size the mattress is," Tannen explains, noting that deeper pockets make it easier to change the sheets. If you're concerned about them being too loose or wrinkled, Tannen reassures that with strong elastic banding, the fitted sheet will stay secure and maintain a neat, tailored appearance, no matter the mattress size.

Do you need deep pocket sheets if you have a mattress topper?

If you're using a mattress topper, Tannen suggests deep pocket sheets are the optimal choice. This way, you won’t have to stretch or tug on the fabric to accommodate the topper, which could affect the feel of your sheets and potentially lead to damage over time.

Take Our Word for It

This article was penned by Jen Woo, a seasoned design, lifestyle, and culture writer and content strategist with over 10 years of expertise, and was updated by Jamie Fischer, a writer for Mytour. To create this list, we tested various deep pocket sheets from different brands and materials for six months, assessing them based on quality, feel, breathability, durability, and overall value. For professional insight into selecting deep pocket sheets, we consulted Missy Tannen, the founder and chief designer at Boll & Branch.