Are you in the market for new sheets but not sure where to start? With so many options out there, shopping for bedding can feel overwhelming. But if you‘re looking for an affordable retailer that doesn‘t compromise on quality, IKEA should be at the top of your list.
As a bedding expert and self-proclaimed picky shopper, I‘ve thoroughly tested and researched IKEA‘s sheet offerings to bring you this ultimate guide. Whether you‘re a college student on a tight budget or a homeowner looking to refresh your linen closet, read on to discover everything you need to know about finding the perfect IKEA sheets for a great night‘s sleep.
IKEA Sheet Materials: Cotton, Lyocell, and More
One of the first things to consider when sheet shopping is the material. IKEA offers a range of options to suit different comfort preferences and budgets:
Cotton: IKEA‘s 100% cotton sheets are a popular choice for their breathability, softness, and durability. They come in percale and sateen weaves. Percale has a crisp, cool feel perfect for hot sleepers, while sateen is silky-smooth and cozy.
Lyocell: A eco-friendly fiber made from wood pulp, lyocell is moisture-wicking, breathable, and incredibly soft. IKEA‘s lyocell sheets have a luxurious feel comparable to high-end sheets costing much more.
Cotton-Polyester Blend: For a budget-friendly and wrinkle-resistant option, try a cotton-polyester blend. IKEA‘s Meistervik and Ullvide sheets are durable, low-maintenance, and still very soft.
Cotton-Lyocell Blend: Get the best of both worlds with IKEA‘s cotton-lyocell sheets like the Stenklöver set. They combine the soft, moisture-wicking properties of lyocell with the crisp feel of cotton.
My top pick? The Mossruta lyocell sheets. They‘re silky, breathable, and feel much more high-end than their $60 price tag for a queen set. Over 500 5-star reviews rave about their comfort and cooling properties.
Thread Count and Sheet Quality
Next, let‘s demystify thread count. While many shoppers assume a higher number equals better quality, that‘s not the full story. Thread count refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. Higher counts like 1000TC are often achieved using thinner, lower-quality threads.
IKEA‘s sheet thread counts range from 104 to 600. My testing found that 300TC is the sweet spot for softness and durability, as in the Sömnig cotton percale sheets. These breathable and crisp sheets wash well and are a steal at $35 for a queen set.
For context, luxury sheet brands like Frette use thread counts between 200-400. So don‘t be fooled into overspending on a 1000TC set from other retailers. With IKEA, 300-400TC sheets will give you the perfect balance of quality, feel and value.
Caring For Your IKEA Sheets
To keep your IKEA sheets in top shape, always follow the care label instructions. Most can be machine washed in warm or hot water, but some delicate materials may call for a gentle cycle.
A few general tips:
- Wash sheets separately from other items to prevent pilling and snagging
- Use a mild detergent and skip fabric softeners, which coat fibers and trap heat
- Shake out sheets before placing in the dryer to minimize wrinkles
- Tumble dry low and remove promptly to keep sheets smooth (most IKEA sheets are wrinkle-resistant though!)
For delicate lyocell sheets, washing in cold water and air drying will prolong their life and minimize shrinkage. Cotton and cotton-poly blends can tolerate heat better.
With proper washing, IKEA sheets remain soft and pill-free after multiple washes. Many reviewers are pleasantly surprised by how well they hold up compared to pricier brands. One even said her IKEA 300TC cotton sheets still look new after 5 years of weekly washing!
Sizing and Fit
IKEA sheets come in all standard mattress sizes including twin, full, queen and king. But one advantage over other budget retailers is that IKEA offers sheets specifically sized for their extra deep mattresses, like the 16" Haugesund spring mattress.
No more struggling with too-small fitted sheets or excess fabric bunching up. IKEA clearly lists the pocket depth for each sheet set so you can find the perfect fit for your mattress. For example, their Kungsmynta queen sheets fit mattresses up to 15" deep.
Something to note: IKEA‘s fitted sheets do not have elastic all the way around like some other brands. The elastic is only on the corners. However, multiple reviews say the sheets still stay put well throughout the night, especially on IKEA mattresses which are designed for a taut fit.
Color and Pattern Options
Whether your bedroom style is minimalist or maximalist, IKEA has sheets to match. Their core line includes a range of versatile solid colors like crisp white, fog gray, and navy blue.
But they also offer bolder options to add personality to your bed. The Majalisa sheet set comes in a playful dot print, while the Kråkklöver set features a graphic floral that looks straight out of an Anthropologie catalog.
Best of all, most of IKEA‘s patterned sheets are printed on the same high-quality cotton fabric as their solids. No scratchy or thin material just because you want a fun print.
As a designer, I appreciate that IKEA‘s sheet colors remain vibrant and true after washing. The dyes do not bleed or fade like many other budget sheets I‘ve tested.
Price and Value
Now for the best part: the prices. IKEA is known for their affordability, and their sheets are no exception. You can score a queen set of 100% cotton sheets for as little as $35 (Vitplister) or upgrade to 400TC lyocell for only $60 (Mossruta).
Compare that to other popular retailers:
- Target‘s threshold cotton 400TC sheet set: $50
- Brooklinen‘s classic percale sheets: $129
- Parachute‘s sateen sheet set: $129
IKEA‘s offerings may not have all the bells and whistles of direct-to-consumer bedding startups. But in my experience, their quality is significantly higher than similarly-priced sheets from Amazon or big box stores. You get thoughtful design, durable materials, and a soft feel without breaking the bank.
Plus, IKEA‘s 365-day return policy means you can buy with confidence. If you don‘t love your sheets, simply return them within a year for a full refund. No questions asked.
The Best IKEA Sheets for Your Budget and Needs
We‘ve covered a lot of information, so here‘s a summary of my top IKEA sheet recommendations:
Best Overall: Mossruta Lyocell Sheets, $60 for a Queen. Silky-soft with a luxurious drape and cooling feel. An unbeatable value.
Best Percale: Sömning Cotton Sheets, $35 for a Queen. Cool and breathable with a crisp matte texture that‘s perfect for summer nights.
Best Sateen: Nattjasmin Cotton Sheets, $50 for a Queen. A smooth, buttery feel and subtle luster that looks expensive.
Best Printed: Kransborre Patterned Cotton Sheets, $30 for a Queen. Fun prints on the same soft, durable cotton fabric as IKEA‘s solids.
Best Organic: Stenklöver Organic Cotton & Lyocell Sheets, $90 for a Queen. GOTS certified organic cotton blended with lyocell for the ultimate eco-luxury.
Best Deep Pocket: Dvala Extra Deep Fitted Sheet, $3.49+. Fits mattresses up to 18" thick and stays put wash after wash.
Whatever your sheet needs or wants, IKEA has an option for you. Don‘t sleep on this affordable source of high-quality, comfy bedding! With a little research and some expert guidance, you‘ll be well on your way to your best night‘s sleep ever.
Have you tried IKEA sheets? What are your favorites? Share your own reviews and experiences in the comments below. Happy shopping and sweet dreams!
