Buying Guide: Deep Pocket Sheets

Updated: Aug 05, 2022

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Key Takeaways

  • Deep pocket sheets are designed for an easier fit, even on extra thick mattresses. You’ll need to measure your mattress to buy the correct fit.
  • To make your sheets last, it’s important to wash them correctly. Take the care instructions into account when making buying decisions. 
  • For maximum comfort, choose sheets designed for your sleeping style (based on their materials and weave). For hot sleepers, bamboo is often the best option. 

Sleep plays an essential role in your health, mood, and ability to think and act. Having a comfortable bed not only supports relaxation, it helps you drift off to sleep with ease. Choosing the right bed sheets can make a big difference in your sleep as an older adult.

Bed sheets can be expensive, which is one reason it’s important to learn about the type of sheets you need for your unique sleep style. Bed sheets also need to fit correctly, because ill-fitting sheets that are too big or too small can slip off. Additionally, since mattresses can vary in their height (or thickness), sheet shopping can get complicated. That’s where deep pocket sheets come in. 

Need help shopping for the best deep pocket sheets? Continue on for a breakdown of the top options, so you can get the quality rest you deserve.

Read our guide to the Best Mattresses for Older Adults.

Best Deep Pocket Sheets:

Why Should You Choose to Go With Deep Pocket Sheets? 

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of fresh, clean sheets that fit perfectly over your mattress—and more importantly, stay put. Well-fitted sheets are important to getting a good night’s rest, and they also create a barrier between you and your mattress, protecting it from sweat, bacteria, and more.  

If you have a thick mattress or an adjustable bed, deep pocket sheet sets are a convenient way to upgrade your linens—they’re easy to change and stay in place, and they were specifically designed to fit a deeper mattress. You’ll find plenty of options when it comes to sheet sets, including different varieties of pocket depth, thread count, and fabric blends like cotton, linen, and sateen sheets.

Deep pocket sheets are a special kind of fitted sheet with extra deep pocket-style corners. These flexible pockets have elasticity that allows them to slip easily over your mattress. Typically, deep pocket sheets will have a depth between 15–22 inches.

Pros

  • Convenient: They’re easier to use than regular fitted sheets.

  • Reliable: These sheets stay put even on a thick mattress.

  • Compatible: Many deep pocket sheet sets will work with adjustable beds.

Cons

  • Sizing issues: Some pockets may be too small (or too big) for your bed. Measure your mattress height (i.e. thickness) before you purchase.

  • Difficult to fold: They can be harder to fold, even for those who can handle fitted sheets like a pro.

  • Extra maintenance: Many deep pocket sheets require extra care when washing.

Best Deep Pocket Sheets Comparison

The below costs reflect the pricing of deep pocket king sheets.

Brand
Cozy Earth
ProductBamboo Sheet Set
Cost (King)$327.20
MaterialsBamboo
Thread Count300
Fit20 inches
Size
  • Twin/Twin XL
  • Full
  • Queen
  • King
  • California King
  • Split King
FeelSoft and lightweight
DurabilityHigh
CoolingYes
Ease of CareEasy
Brooklinen
ProductLuxe Core Sheet Set
Cost (King)$219
MaterialsLong-staple cotton
Thread Count480
Fit15 inches
Size
  • Twin
  • Twin XL
  • Full
  • Queen
  • King
  • California King
FeelSilky and smooth
DurabilityLow
CoolingNo
Ease of CareMedium
L. L. Bean
ProductPima Cotton Percale Sheet Set
Cost (King)$179
MaterialsCotton (pima)
Thread Count280
Fit15 inches
Size
  • Twin
  • Full
  • Queen
  • King
  • California King
FeelSoft and crisp
DurabilityMedium
CoolingYes
Ease of CareEasy
Bare Home
ProductMicrofiber Extra Deep Pocket Fitted Sheet
Cost (King)$24.99
MaterialsMicrofiber (synthetic polyester)
Thread CountN/A*
Fit22 inches
Size
  • Twin
  • Twin XL
  • Full
  • Full XL
  • Queen
  • Split Queen
  • King
  • California King
FeelSoft and lightweight
DurabilityHigh
CoolingNo
Ease of CareMedium
Boll & Branch
ProductSignature Fitted Sheet
Cost (King)$128
MaterialsCotton (organic certified)
Thread Count300
Fit17 inches
Size
  • Twin
  • Twin XL
  • Full
  • Queen
  • King
  • California King
FeelSoft and smooth
DurabilityHigh
CoolingNo
Ease of CareSpecial care required
Lands’ End
ProductLuxe Supima Cotton Flannel Bed Sheet Set
Cost (King)$234.95
MaterialsSupima cotton
Thread CountN/A*
Fit18 inches
Size
  • Twin
  • Twin XL
  • Full
  • Queen
  • King
  • California King
FeelSoft and fuzzy
DurabilityHigh
CoolingNo
Ease of CareEasy
Luxome
ProductLuxury Sheet Set
Cost (King)$160
MaterialsBamboo
Thread Count400
Fit17 inches
Size
  • Twin
  • Twin XL
  • Full
  • Queen
  • King
  • California King
  • Split King
FeelSilky and smooth
DurabilityHigh
CoolingYes
Ease of CareMedium
Cuddledown
ProductItalian Linen Deep Pocket Fitted Sheet
Cost (King)$269
MaterialsLinen
Thread CountN/A*
Fit19 inches
Size
  • Queen
  • King
FeelSoft and lightweight
DurabilityHigh
CoolingYes
Ease of CareSpecial care required
Silk & Snow
ProductEgyptian Cotton Bed Sheets
Cost (King)$140
MaterialsEgyptian cotton
Thread Count300
Fit15 inches
Size
  • Twin
  • Twin XL
  • Full
  • Queen
  • King
  • California King
FeelSilky and smooth
DurabilityMedium
CoolingNo
Ease of CareSpecial care required
Southshore Fine Linens
ProductExtra Deep Pocket Sheet Set
Cost (King)$39.99
MaterialsMicrofiber
Thread CountN/A*
Fit21 inches
Size
  • Twin
  • Full
  • Queen
  • King
  • California King
FeelSoft and lightweight
DurabilityHigh
CoolingNo
Ease of CareEasy

*Flannel and microfiber sheets are not graded by thread count.

These bamboo sheets tick every box. If you’re a hot sleeper, these are among the best cooling sheets you can find. For the rest of us, Cozy Earth makes some of the best bed sheets out there.

Made from 100% viscose from bamboo, these deep pocket bed sheets have breathable, moisture-wicking fabric. This helps regulate body temperature as we sleep, helping you rest a little more comfortably. 

These sheets will fit best on mattresses 20 inches thick. Washing is easy—just use cold water on a regular cycle. However, avoid using bleach and fabric softener. 

The sheets are relatively durable and should last long if taken care of well—which is good news, given the cost. These are the most expensive sheets we reviewed, but they’re also the highest quality. 

We selected these sheets as best overall because they offer the most comfort, last long, and are easy to take care of. That said, if these bamboo sheets are out of your price range, there are plenty of other options out there.

Cozy Earth deep pocket sheets bag
Cozy Earth Deep Pocket Sheets Bag

Best Sheets for Design

Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set

If you prefer to slip into a silky-smooth set of sheets, you’ll find few smoother than the luxurious sateen bed sheet set from Brooklinen. Our pick for best sheets with a sateen feel, this full set includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillow cases, and it can fit mattresses up to 15 inches thick. 

These are also some of the most stylish sheets you can find. They’re available in classic whites and neutrals, as well as an eye-catching array of patterns and prints, including limited-edition styles. With a rich, buttery-smooth weave, you can rest easy—in both comfort and style. 

Like most sateen sheets, these require a little extra attention when it comes to care. Machine wash cold with like colors, and tumble dry on low. Following these instructions will help your sheets last longer, though sateen may not last as long as more durable alternatives.

Best Sheets for Simple Care

L. L. Bean Pima Cotton Percale Sheet Set

These fine sheets from L.L. Bean are woven from long staple pima cotton yarns. Classified as medium-weight percale sheets, they have a smooth finish that can help ease you into a good night’s sleep. While they’re breathable sheets and regulate your body temperature, hot sleepers may find them too warm and might want to choose more lightweight bamboo or linen sheets instead. 

Available in nine solid colors, including sunlight yellow to add a happy pop of color to your bedroom, these pima cotton percale sheets have a classic hemstitch detail.

Looking for the easiest sheets to wash? Look no further—simply machine wash and dry this sheet set, no special care required. 

Best Sheets with Extra-Deep Pockets

Bare Home Microfiber Extra Deep Pocket Fitted Sheet

If you need the best extra deep pocket sheets, the fitted bottom sheet from Bare Home is one of the deepest. With a pocket of 22 inches deep, this is a top pick for those who have an extra thick mattress. It’s also ideal if you have a cozy mattress topper—these sheets will surely stay put if others fall short.  

These microfiber sheets are hypoallergenic, which can help you if you’re allergic to dust or molds. The tighter weave of the sheets leaves less room for dust mites and mold spores to settle in. Though not cooling, the sheets are lightweight and breathable, with a semi-satin finish. While the set is available in two colors on the Bare website—classic white and a calming slate gray—other retailers like Walmart have them available in five colors.

When properly cared for, these sheets are long lasting, but microfiber sheets do require some extra care. Machine wash on cold with like colors and tumble dry on low. Avoid heat, and never bleach. 

Best Organic

Boll & Branch Signature Fitted Sheet

Nothing beats the feeling of a crisp, clean cotton sheet. Boll and Branch makes 100% cotton sheets from long-staple cotton that’s certified organic and GMO-free. Simply put, these cotton sheets are some of the purest and most natural you can find. Long-staple cotton is said to be more durable than conventional cotton, and customer reviews indicate they offer longevity as well as comfort.

This set of organic cotton sheets requires a little bit of extra attention when cleaning. Be sure to use cold water, wash with like colors, and tumble dry on low. The type of detergent you should use depends on which color sheets you buy. Reference the Boll and Branch Laundry Care Guide for more details.  

Best for Cold Sleepers

Lands’ End Luxe Supima Cotton Flannel Bed Sheet Set

These flannel sheets are warm, soft, and fuzzy, which will set you up for a good night’s sleep. If you’re looking for the best flannel deep pocket sheets, these are the ones. That’s because they’re made from supima cotton, which is only grown in the United States. “Supima” means “superior pima,” which has fine, extra-long fibers, allowing for a durable weave. Great for those who sleep cool, users indicate they offer a cozy night’s sleep.

They’re also easy to take care of—no special care required. That said, flannel sheets are notorious for pilling. To reduce the chances of this happening, always wash in warm (not hot) water. 

These soft and silky bamboo sheets from Luxome are a less expensive alternative to the ones made by Cozy Earth (at about half the price). With a thread count of 400, Luxome boasts the highest thread count of any viscose bamboo sheets ever made. Designed specifically to help hot sleepers stay cool, they’re moisture-wicking and thermal-regulating, which helps prevent night sweats. 

Luxome’s bamboo sheets require a little more care than Cozy Earth’s. They should be washed in cold water in a gentle cycle. Make sure to wash them separate from anything that could snag the fabric, like zippers and hooks.  

Best Moisture-Wicking Sheets

Cuddledown Italian Linen Deep Pocket Fitted Sheet

These Italian linen sheets are an alternative for hot sleepers. They are moisture-wicking, so they’ll help you stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. They’re also hypoallergenic, so if you’re allergic to bamboo but still want cooling sheets, Cuddledown is the way to go. 

In terms of feel, these sheets are smooth, soft, and lightly fuzzy—a good option if you don’t like the feel of sateen. With 19-inch-deep pockets, they can fit a thicker-than-average mattress. While there are also matching flat sheets available, Cuddledown does not currently offer a packaged sheet set. 

While long lasting, these sheets do require delicate washing. Machine wash on warm in a gentle cycle. Tumble dry on low and remove them immediately, as linen can get wrinkled very quickly. Iron while still warm. When washing, keep sheets separate from dark colors and never use bleach. 

Best Sheets for Durability

Silk & Snow Egyptian Cotton Bed Sheets

Egyptian cotton is a classic choice for bed sheets because of its reputation for being softer and more durable than standard cotton. Accept no imitation—these sheets by Silk and Snow are made from certified long-staple Egyptian cotton. They have a sateen finish ideal for those who want to slip into silky-smooth sheets. 

These sheets are a good option for reliability and comfort. In our opinion, long-staple pima cotton is the better choice if a sheet’s longevity is your primary concern. It’s a durable fiber that’s easier to wash.

While easy to clean, Egyptian cotton sheets require some extra care. Machine wash with like colors in cold water. In the dryer, tumble on low with wool dryer balls (not dryer sheets). They should be removed promptly from the dryer to prevent wrinkles.  

Best Value

Southshore Fine Linens Extra Deep Pocket Sheet Set

Southshore Fine Linens’ extra deep pocket sheets are an affordable option compared to others reviewed. With a lightweight, smooth feel, they’re double-brushed for softness, helping you sleep in comfort.

Made from microfiber, which is a more durable fabric, these sheets offer easy care. They are wrinkle resistant, shrinkage free, fade resistant, and pilling resistant. The extra deep pocket makes them easy to slip over thick mattresses. Southshore Fine Linens delivers quality and comfort in a soothing array of solid colors.

As mentioned, these sheets come with easy care instructions. They can be washed in a normal warm cycle and tumbled dry. There are some additional steps you can take to maintain the quality of your sheets, like avoiding bleach and doing quick cold-water rinses.

What to Consider When Shopping for Deep Pocket Sheets

What are the best deep pocket sheets and their accompanying features? Just like when shopping for a normal fitted sheet set, you’ll need to make the call on which features you need in order to get the best sleep possible. 

Cost

One of the most important factors in making your purchase decision is always your budget. Deep pocket sheets tend to cost a little more than regular bed sheets, but affordable options are out there. 

The cost of deep pocket sheets is dependent on the materials they’re made from. For example, microfiber sheets tend to be the most affordable, while sheets made from pure, natural fibers—like cotton and bamboo—are the most expensive.

Prices for king-size deep pocket sets sheets range from $24.99–306.75. Affordable sheet sets made from microfiber can be found for less than $50. High-quality, durable bed sheets will typically run you $250–$300.

So, how long do deep pocket sheets last? Sheets can become worn down over time, especially if they’re not washed and dried properly. Long-staple cottons like Egyptian cotton, pima cotton, and supima cotton are widely considered to be the most durable. 

Interior Design

One of the most important features of your linens may boil down to matters of taste. How your sheets look on your bed matters, especially if you’re investing in a whole set. Consider how your deep pocket sheets will pair with the rest of your bedding, your furniture, and the color of your bedroom walls. 

One common interior design tip is to choose bed sheets with solid colors like earth tones, neutrals, and whites. These colors are inviting, calming, and versatile. Of course, a great print always stands out too. 

Thread Count

A thread count measures how many threads are in a square inch of fabric. According to Good Housekeeping, thread counts can be a useful way to evaluate sheets made from cotton, single-ply weaves for softness, comfort, and durability. Premium bed sheets usually have a thread count between 300–500. 

However, there are some drawbacks to thread counts. For instance they aren’t as useful for evaluating the quality of microfiber, linen, or flannel sheets compared to cotton. Also, some manufacturers use thinner threads or multiple weaves to cram a higher count into their fabric, but at a loss of quality.  

In other words, when it comes to quality, thread count isn’t everything. Surprisingly, the 300 thread count cotton sheets in your shopping cart may be of better quality than the ones that are 700 thread count. If you want the best deep pocket sheets possible, the quality of the fabric will be determined by both its thread count and its materials. 

Materials

Spend one night on a set of itchy, rough sheets and you’ll know exactly how important it is to take bed sheet materials into consideration. Everyone has different preferences when it comes to how their sheets feel, which is determined not only by the materials, but their weave and thread count. 

Read our guide to the Best Mattress for Older Adults.

Types of Materials in Deep Pocket Sheets

Most deep pocket sheets are made from varieties of cotton. Microfiber material is usually made of synthetic polyester, which is an affordable alternative to cotton. Additionally, fabric spun from bamboo fibers is a natural alternative to cotton that’s known to be cooling for hot sleepers. 

  • Linen
  • Bamboo
  • Conventional and organic cotton
  • Egyptian cotton
  • Long staple cotton
  • Microfiber
  • Polyester
  • Lycocell
  • Silk
  • Polyester

Fit

Deep pocket sheets are defined by their fit. Typically, deep pocket sheets will have a depth between 15–22 inches. It’s important to buy sheets with the correct pocket depth, because an incorrect fit can be uncomfortable, making it harder for you to sleep comfortably. 

According to the National Institute of Health, the total time spent sleeping decreases in older adults as the ability to fall asleep and stay asleep wanes as we age. Sheets that are incorrectly fitted will slip off the mattress as you move in your sleep, making it even harder to maintain a good night’s rest. This is exactly the scenario we want to avoid by using deep pocket sheets in the first place. 

To ensure your sheets are the correct fit, measure the thickness of your mattress and compare it to the depth of your sheet’s pockets. To fit correctly, your deep pocket sheets should be 2 inches deeper than the thickness of your mattress. 

How to Fit Deep Pocket Sheets

Step 1: Measure your mattress’s thickness. 

Step 2: Find your sheet’s pocket depth dimensions (listed on the packaging). 

Step 3: Subtract 2 inches from your sheet’s pocket depth.

 If this number is equal to your mattress’s thickness, you’ve found a match. 

Size

Sizing might be the most straightforward criteria when it comes to sheet shopping. Pick sheets that match the size of your bed. Most deep pocket sheets range in size from twin/twin XL to California king, though some are even bigger. 

Common deep pocket sheet sizes:

  • Twin/Twin XL
  • Full
  • Queen
  • King
  • California king
  • Split king

You’re probably familiar with most of these sizes, but it’s harder to find the best sheets for twin XL, California king, and split king beds. Thankfully, most of our picks for best sheets with deep pockets come in these sizes. 

Feel

A good night’s sleep often comes down to how comfortable your sheets are against your skin. While one of the most important qualities of a sheet set is its feel, it’s also the most subjective. 

Some people prefer sheets that are fuzzy and warm, while others prefer ones that are silky and cool. And for the rest of us who are somewhere in between, there’s no shortage of variety when it comes to the different types of textures and materials available. 

The feel of a deep pocket sheet set will be determined by its thread count, material, and weave. A weave is the way the threads of fabric are arranged. 

This small detail can make a big difference when it comes to your sheet’s texture. While bed sheets tend to have smooth weaves like jersey, percale, and sateen, they each have a distinct feel—and every sleeper has their own preference! 

Types of Bed Sheet Weaves:

  • Brocade
  • Damask
  • Dobby
  • Jersey
  • Percale
  • Twill
  • Sateen

Sateen and percale are two of the most popular styles of bed sheet weaves. Percale weaves are “matte,” meaning they can be soft but tend to be crisp and cool. Sateen weaves are silky smooth and usually have a luminous finish. And while percale is more breathable than sateen, not all percale sheets are cooling. 

Durability

The durability of your bed sheets matters. High-quality sheets can cost hundreds of dollars. If your sheets start falling apart after just a few washes, you’re basically throwing money away. 

The durability of your deep pocket sheets is determined by its materials and weave. Simply put, better-quality materials and construction leads to long-lasting bedding. It can be worth it to pay a little extra for sheets made from a quality cotton than to replace cheaper alternatives again and again. 

Ease of Care

How you take care of your deep pocket sheets matters too. Take note of your sheet’s care instructions. For example, washing your sheets in warm versus cold water can make a difference, and disregarding care instructions can lead to damage. 

Cooling 

If you get warm at night, buy deep pocket sheets with cooling capabilities. These sheets will make sure you stay comfortable and don’t overheat, allowing you to get a better night’s rest. 

Bamboo is the best material when it comes to cooling bed sheets. That’s because bamboo fibers are more “breathable” than cotton, allowing air to circulate more easily. Lightweight linen can sometimes be a good option too, but not all linen sheets are cooling. 

Read our guide to the Best Adjustable Bed Frames.

Bottom Line

Deep pocket sheets can ensure that your mattress is protected while also ensuring your sheets stay in place, providing you the means to get a good night’s rest. While they’re great for thicker mattresses of all kinds, deep pocket sheets are also beneficial for adjustable beds, which requires a sheet that will stay in place as the bed moves positions. Ultimately, taking the time to measure your mattress and understand your own physical needs in your sheets will help you choose the right ones for you and your comfort.

How We Wrote the Best Deep Pocket Sheets for 2022 Article

We reviewed best deep pocket sheets based on the following criteria:

  • Cost
  • Ease of care
  • Durability
  • Materials 
  • Fit
  • Feel
  • Comfort
  • Expert sources
  • Customer satisfaction reviews
  • Company reputation

Why You Can Trust Our Reviews

The sheet reviews that we list follow an extensive examination of manufacturers, stated specifications, and reviews. Our reviewers are people who like comfortable beds and sheets and who want to be sure that claims made by sheet-makers are ones that are backed up by performance and results.

Our ratings consider factors we list in the review: comfort, manufacturer guarantee, durability, cost.

During our research process, we:

  • Consulted with medical and sleep sources
  • Surveyed different types of sheets
  • Spent hours researching sheets
  • Read hundreds of verified customer reviews

Many products and services featured on AgingInPlace.org will play a crucial role in your daily life. As these products should help enhance aging at home, we work to uncover as much as possible about the products and services we review. We also consult audiologists, geriatricians, professional adult caregivers, and other experts in the field to ensure we’re providing the most accurate, helpful information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Deep pocket sheets have corners with extra elasticity. They are designed to slip more easily over thick mattresses. A deep pocket sheet with the right fit will stay secure on your mattress, even if you toss and turn as you sleep.

Pricing is accurate as of 5/2/2022 date.

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WRITTEN BY

Stephanie Silton is a health blogger and expert mango slicer who lives in Florida with her husband and two cats. She can be found taking long hikes in the Everglades or scrolling pictures of cakes on Pinterest.

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