The best fitted sheets in the UK should stay firmly on the mattress, feel comfortable throughout the night and remain secure even on deep mattresses. In this guide we compare the best fitted sheets and deep fitted sheets available in the UK, including Egyptian cotton sheets, organic cotton bedding and budget microfibre fitted sheets.
In this guide we compare five of the best fitted sheets and deep fitted sheets available in the UK, including Egyptian cotton fitted sheets, organic cotton sheets and cheap microfibre fitted sheets. We’ve also included options suitable for deeper mattresses, since many modern mattresses are significantly thicker than older designs.
If you’re looking for matching duvet covers and pillowcases, you may also want to read our guide to the best bedding sets in the UK.
If your mattress has a pillow-top layer or built-in topper, you may need deep fitted sheets or extra deep fitted sheets to ensure they fit properly. Many mattresses today measure between 25cm and 35cm deep, which means standard fitted sheets sometimes struggle to stay in place.
This guide covers fitted sheets across a wide range of prices, from very cheap polyester sheets to premium Egyptian cotton and Supima cotton fitted sheets. Prices typically refer to double fitted sheets, although most ranges are also available in single, king size and super king size versions.
Best Fitted Sheets UK: Quick Picks
Best breathable fitted sheet
Soak & Sleep Classic 200 Thread Count Egyptian Cotton Fitted Sheet
Best silky fitted sheet
M&S Egyptian Cotton 400 Thread Count Sateen Fitted Sheet
Best cheap fitted sheet
Amazon Basics Microfibre Fitted Sheet
Best organic fitted sheet
John Lewis Organic Cotton Fitted Sheet
Best luxury fitted sheet
Soak & Sleep Supima Cotton 1000 Thread Count Fitted Sheet
Quick Comparison: Best Fitted Sheets and Deep Fitted Sheets UK
| Fitted sheet | Material | Thread count | Max mattress depth | Best for | Approx price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soak & Sleep Classic | Egyptian cotton | 200 | 30cm / 40cm | Breathable cotton sheets | £22 |
| M&S Egyptian Cotton | Egyptian cotton | 400 | 30cm / 38cm | Smooth, silky bedding | £29.50 |
| Amazon Basics Microfibre | Polyester | n/a | Standard | Very cheap fitted sheets | £7 |
| John Lewis Organic Cotton | Organic cotton | 200 | 30cm | Eco-friendly bedding | £24 |
| Soak & Sleep Supima Cotton | Supima cotton | 1000 | 25cm / 30cm / 40cm | Luxury bedding | £95+ |
How to Choose the Best Fitted Sheets
When buying fitted sheets, there are four main factors to consider.
Material
Most fitted sheets are made from cotton, Egyptian cotton or polyester blends. Cotton sheets are breathable and comfortable, while polyester sheets are usually cheaper and easier to wash.
Thread count
Thread count refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. Higher thread counts usually produce smoother bedding, although thread count alone does not determine quality.
Mattress depth
This is one of the most common mistakes people make when buying fitted sheets. If the sheet is not deep enough, it will constantly slip off the mattress corners.
Weave
Cotton bedding is usually produced in either percale or sateen weaves. Percale sheets feel crisp and breathable, while sateen sheets feel smoother and silkier.
What Depth Fitted Sheet Do You Need?
Mattress depth varies significantly depending on the type of mattress you own.
Many traditional mattresses are around 20cm deep, which means standard fitted sheets usually work well. However, modern mattresses often include thicker comfort layers or built-in pillow-top padding.
Typical mattress depths are:
Standard mattresses
20–25cm
Deep mattresses
25–30cm
Extra deep mattresses
30–40cm
If your mattress measures around 25cm deep, it is usually wise to buy fitted sheets that are designed for mattresses up to 30cm deep. This makes it much easier to stretch the sheet over the corners.
For thicker mattresses or mattresses with toppers, extra deep fitted sheets designed for 38–40cm mattresses are often the best option.
If your mattress feels uncomfortable or lacks support, you may also want to read our guide to the best mattresses in the UK.
Deep Fitted Sheets vs Extra Deep Fitted Sheets
Many bedding retailers now sell both deep fitted sheets and extra deep fitted sheets.
Deep fitted sheets typically fit mattresses up to around 30cm deep. These sheets are suitable for most modern mattresses.
Extra deep fitted sheets are designed for mattresses up to around 38–40cm deep. They are often recommended for pillow-top mattresses or mattresses combined with mattress toppers.
If your fitted sheet regularly slips off the corners of your mattress, the problem is often that the sheet is not deep enough.
Choosing fitted sheets with slightly more depth than your mattress measurement usually makes changing bedding much easier.
Fitted Sheet Sizes in the UK
When choosing fitted sheets it is also important to select the correct bed size. Most fitted sheets in the UK are sold in four standard sizes.
Single fitted sheets usually measure around 90cm x 190cm and are designed for standard single mattresses.
Double fitted sheets typically measure 135cm x 190cm, which is the most common mattress size for couples in the UK.
King size fitted sheets are designed for mattresses measuring 150cm x 200cm, while super king fitted sheets usually measure 180cm x 200cm.
Most bedding retailers sell fitted sheets in all of these sizes, although some cheaper ranges may not offer the full selection. When buying fitted sheets it is important to check both the mattress size and the maximum mattress depth listed by the retailer.
For example, a king size fitted sheet designed for mattresses up to 30cm deep may not fit properly if your mattress measures closer to 35cm.
Choosing the correct size and depth ensures the fitted sheet stays securely in place and prevents the corners from slipping off the mattress.
The Best Fitted Sheets in the UK
Soak & Sleep Classic 200 Thread Count Egyptian Cotton Fitted Sheet
Approximate price: £22
These fitted sheets from Soak & Sleep are one of the best value Egyptian cotton fitted sheets available in the UK. They are made from 100% Egyptian cotton with a 200 thread count and are designed for buyers who prefer bedding that feels crisp and breathable rather than silky and heavy.
Although 200 thread count may sound relatively low compared with some luxury bedding, it is actually a popular choice for fitted sheets because it produces a lightweight and breathable fabric. Many sleepers prefer the cool, crisp feel of 200–300 thread count cotton bedding, especially during warmer months.
The sheets use a percale weave, which is known for producing a crisp texture and good airflow. Percale cotton sheets are commonly recommended for hot sleepers because they allow heat to dissipate more easily than denser fabrics.
Another important factor is the type of cotton used. Egyptian cotton uses long staple fibres, which produce stronger yarn and smoother fabric. Bedding made from long staple cotton generally lasts longer and resists pilling better than cheaper cotton bedding.
These fitted sheets are available in both standard and extra deep versions. The standard depth fits mattresses up to around 30cm deep, while the extra deep version fits mattresses up to around 40cm deep. This makes them suitable for most modern mattresses.
Customer reviews are extremely strong, averaging around 4.6 out of 5 from hundreds of buyers. Soak & Sleep itself is also a well regarded bedding retailer that specialises in duvets, pillows and sheets.
Colour options are relatively simple, with white, grey and ivory available.
Pros
• breathable Egyptian cotton
• crisp percale weave
• good value for money
• available in extra deep versions
Cons
• limited colour options
• less silky than higher thread count sheets
M&S Egyptian Cotton 400 Thread Count Sateen Fitted Sheet
Approximate price: £29.50
These Egyptian cotton fitted sheets from Marks & Spencer are a good choice if you prefer bedding that feels smooth and luxurious rather than crisp and lightweight.
The sheets are made from 100% Egyptian cotton with a 400 thread count. Higher thread count cotton generally produces denser fabric that feels softer and smoother against the skin.
The sheets also use a sateen weave. Sateen bedding has a slightly silky feel and a subtle sheen, which is why it is often used in hotel-style bedding. Compared with percale cotton, sateen fabric feels heavier and warmer, although many people prefer its smoother texture.
Another advantage of these fitted sheets is the range of depth options. The deep version fits mattresses up to around 30cm deep, while the extra deep version fits mattresses up to around 38cm.
As mentioned earlier, allowing a few extra centimetres when choosing sheet depth can make changing bedding significantly easier.
Marks & Spencer has long been one of the most trusted bedding retailers in the UK and its bedding ranges consistently receive strong customer feedback. These fitted sheets typically receive review scores around 4.5 out of 5.
They are also available in a wide range of colours, including white, grey, navy and several other neutral shades.
Matching duvet covers and pillowcases are available in the same bedding range if you want a coordinated bedding set.
Pros
• soft and silky sateen weave
• high thread count Egyptian cotton
• trusted UK retailer
• multiple colours available
Cons
• more expensive than basic cotton sheets
• sateen fabric can feel slightly warmer than percale sheets
Amazon Basics Microfibre Fitted Sheet
Approximate price: £7
If you want extremely cheap fitted sheets that are durable and easy to maintain, this Amazon Basics microfibre fitted sheet is one of the most widely purchased options available in the UK.
Unlike the previous two products in this guide, this fitted sheet is made from polyester rather than cotton. Microfibre polyester is a very fine synthetic fibre that is designed to feel soft and smooth against the skin.
Synthetic fitted sheets have several practical advantages. They tend to wrinkle less than cotton sheets, they usually require less ironing and they are resistant to shrinking after repeated washing. For households that wash bedding frequently, these qualities can make polyester sheets a convenient option.
Another advantage is durability. Polyester fabrics generally cope well with frequent washing cycles, which is why many hotels, guesthouses and rental properties use polycotton or polyester bedding.
Price is obviously another major benefit. This fitted sheet costs only a few pounds for a double size, making it one of the cheapest fitted sheets on the market.
Despite the low price, customer feedback is extremely strong. At the time of writing, the sheet has accumulated well over 100,000 customer reviews with an average score of around 4.5 out of 5. That level of feedback suggests it performs reliably for everyday use.
The sheet is available in a wide range of colours and sizes including single, double, king size and super king. Many buyers also appreciate the fact that synthetic sheets rarely lose their shape after washing.
The main downside is breathability. Polyester fabrics tend to trap heat more than cotton bedding, which means they may feel warmer during the night.
Pros
• extremely affordable
• large number of positive reviews
• durable and easy to wash
• wide range of colours available
Cons
• less breathable than cotton sheets
• synthetic fibres can feel warmer during sleep
John Lewis 200 Thread Count Organic Cotton Fitted Sheet
Approximate price: £24
Organic cotton fitted sheets are still relatively uncommon compared with standard cotton bedding, but they are becoming increasingly popular with buyers who want more environmentally friendly bedding.
This organic cotton fitted sheet from John Lewis is made from 100% cotton with a 200 thread count. Like the Soak & Sleep fitted sheet earlier in this guide, it is designed to feel crisp and breathable rather than silky and heavy.
The main difference is the type of cotton used. Organic cotton is grown without many of the pesticides and chemicals used in conventional cotton farming. According to the manufacturer, producing this organic cotton fabric uses significantly less water and generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared with standard cotton production.
The sheets are certified under the Global Organic Textile Standard, often abbreviated to GOTS. This certification verifies that the cotton has been produced according to strict environmental and social standards.
From a comfort perspective, the sheets perform very similarly to other 200 thread count cotton bedding. The fabric feels lightweight and breathable, which many sleepers prefer during warmer months.
The fitted sheet is designed to fit mattresses up to around 30cm deep. While this depth will suit most mattresses, there is no extra deep version available in this range, which may be a limitation for very thick mattresses.
John Lewis has a strong reputation for bedding quality and its bedding products often receive excellent customer feedback. Buyers generally praise the sheets for their comfort, durability and responsible sourcing.
Pros
• organic cotton production
• breathable cotton fabric
• trusted UK retailer
• environmentally certified materials
Cons
• standard cotton rather than Egyptian cotton
• limited depth options
Soak & Sleep White Supima Cotton 1000 Thread Count Fitted Sheet
Approximate price: £90+
If you want genuinely luxurious fitted sheets, this Supima cotton fitted sheet from Soak & Sleep is one of the most premium options available in the UK.
Supima cotton is widely considered one of the highest quality cotton fibres used in bedding. Like Egyptian cotton, it uses extra-long staple fibres that produce stronger yarn and smoother fabric. These longer fibres help create bedding that feels exceptionally soft while also remaining durable over time.
This fitted sheet uses a very high 1000 thread count, which creates a dense and silky fabric with a smooth finish. Higher thread count bedding tends to feel heavier and more luxurious, which is why similar fabrics are often used in high-end hotel bedding.
The sheet is woven using a sateen weave, which produces a smooth surface with a slight sheen and a soft drape. Sateen bedding generally feels softer and silkier than percale cotton, although it can also retain slightly more warmth during the night.
Another useful feature is the depth. The fitted sheet is designed to fit mattresses up to around 40cm deep, which makes it suitable for modern thick mattresses, pillow-top mattresses or mattresses used with toppers.
Soak & Sleep specialises in bedding products such as duvets, pillows and sheets, and the retailer has built a strong reputation for offering high quality bedding at competitive prices.
Although this fitted sheet is significantly more expensive than standard cotton sheets, it is designed for buyers who want extremely soft, high thread count bedding made from premium fibres.
Pros
- extremely soft Supima cotton fabric
- very high 1000 thread count
- suitable for deep mattresses up to around 40cm
- specialist bedding retailer
Cons
- sateen fabric can feel slightly warm for hot sleepers
- expensive compared with most fitted sheets
Fitted Sheet Materials Explained
The material used to make fitted sheets has a significant impact on comfort, durability and breathability.
Cotton fitted sheets are the most common option in the UK. Cotton is breathable, comfortable and relatively affordable. However, standard cotton fibres are shorter than those used in premium cotton varieties.
Egyptian cotton fitted sheets use long staple fibres, which produce stronger yarn and smoother fabric. Bedding made from Egyptian cotton is generally more durable and softer than standard cotton bedding.
Supima cotton is another premium cotton variety that uses extra-long staple fibres. It is grown in the United States and is often used in luxury bedding with very high thread counts.
Polyester or microfibre fitted sheets are made from synthetic fibres. These sheets tend to be cheaper and more resistant to wrinkles, but they are usually less breathable than natural cotton bedding.
For most people, cotton or Egyptian cotton fitted sheets offer the best balance of comfort and price.
You can see more examples of high quality cotton bedding in our guide to the best bedding sets in the UK.
Understanding Thread Count in Fitted Sheets
Thread count refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. Bedding manufacturers often advertise high thread counts because they are associated with softer and smoother bedding.
However, thread count is not the only factor that determines quality.
Typical thread count ranges include:
200–300 thread count
Lightweight and breathable bedding.
400–600 thread count
Softer and smoother sheets.
700+ thread count
Luxury bedding with dense fabric.
It is also important to consider the cotton fibres used in the bedding. High quality cotton fibres often have a greater impact on comfort and durability than thread count alone.
Some manufacturers also use counting techniques that artificially increase the thread count number by counting twisted yarns multiple times.
For most sleepers, cotton bedding with a thread count between 200 and 400 offers an excellent balance of comfort, durability and breathability.
If you’re choosing bedding for warmer weather, you may also want to read our guide to the best summer and winter duvets in the UK.
Scientific Research on Bedding Materials
Academic research has also explored how bedding materials influence comfort and sleep quality.
A study by Chanda, Ahirwar and Behera titled Appraisal of Bed Linen Performance with Respect to Sleep Quality (2020) compared a range of bedding fabrics including cotton, synthetic fabrics and blended materials.
Participants evaluated the fabrics based on factors such as softness, comfort, smell and appearance. The researchers developed what they described as a “Bed Linen Sleep Quality Index” to assess how different fabrics performed.
One interesting factor discussed in the research is the GSM of the fabric, which stands for grams per square metre. This measurement represents the density of the fabric. Bedding with a higher GSM tends to feel thicker and more plush.
Unfortunately, GSM values are not always listed by bedding retailers, which means shoppers often rely on thread count and material descriptions instead.
Overall, the study found that natural fabrics such as cotton often performed better in comfort assessments than purely synthetic fabrics. However, blended fabrics sometimes performed well in durability and maintenance categories.
This suggests that both natural and synthetic materials have advantages depending on what the buyer prioritises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What depth fitted sheet do I need?
The correct depth for a fitted sheet depends on the thickness of your mattress. Standard mattresses are usually around 20–25cm deep and work well with standard fitted sheets.
However, many modern mattresses are thicker than this, particularly if they include pillow-top comfort layers or built-in toppers. Mattresses between 25cm and 30cm deep usually require deep fitted sheets.
For mattresses around 30–40cm deep, extra deep fitted sheets are often necessary to ensure the sheet stays securely on the mattress.
It is usually a good idea to choose fitted sheets that allow a few extra centimetres of depth beyond the mattress measurement. This makes it much easier to stretch the sheet over the corners of the mattress.
Are Egyptian cotton fitted sheets worth it?
Egyptian cotton fitted sheets are widely considered a premium bedding option because they use long staple cotton fibres.
These longer fibres produce stronger yarn and smoother fabric. Bedding made from long staple cotton tends to feel softer and last longer than bedding made from shorter cotton fibres.
Egyptian cotton sheets are also breathable, which helps regulate temperature during sleep.
However, quality varies between manufacturers, so it is important to buy from reputable retailers.
For many people, Egyptian cotton bedding offers an excellent balance of comfort and durability compared with standard cotton sheets.
What thread count is best for fitted sheets?
Thread count describes the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. Higher thread counts often produce smoother bedding, but extremely high numbers are not always necessary.
Most sleepers find that fitted sheets with a thread count between 200 and 400 provide a comfortable balance between softness and breathability.
Lower thread count sheets tend to feel lighter and cooler, while higher thread count sheets feel denser and smoother.
The quality of the cotton fibres used in the bedding often matters more than thread count alone.
What fitted sheets do hotels use?
Hotels usually prioritise durability and easy maintenance when choosing bedding.
Many hotels use polycotton bedding because it can withstand frequent washing and ironing. However, higher-end hotels often use cotton or Egyptian cotton bedding for improved comfort.
Hotel bedding is typically white because it can be washed at high temperatures and makes it easier for housekeeping staff to detect stains.
If you want fitted sheets that feel similar to hotel bedding, look for cotton or Egyptian cotton sheets with thread counts between 200 and 400.
Final Buying Advice
For most people, the best fitted sheets in the UK are cotton or Egyptian cotton sheets with thread counts between 200 and 400.
These sheets offer a good balance of breathability, comfort and durability.
If your mattress is particularly thick, deep fitted sheets or extra deep fitted sheets are usually necessary to ensure the sheet stays securely in place.
Luxury bedding such as Supima cotton sheets can provide an even softer feel, although they are significantly more expensive.
What size fitted sheet fits a king size bed in the UK?
A standard king size mattress in the UK measures 150cm x 200cm, so a king size fitted sheet is required to fit it properly.
However, mattress depth also matters. Some king size mattresses are around 25cm deep, while others with pillow-top layers or built-in comfort layers can measure 30cm to 40cm deep.
If your mattress is thicker than average, it is usually best to choose a deep fitted sheet or extra deep fitted sheet designed for deeper mattresses.
Checking both the mattress size and the maximum mattress depth listed by the retailer helps ensure the fitted sheet stays securely in place.
Do fitted sheets shrink after washing?
Some fitted sheets can shrink slightly after the first few washes, particularly if they are made from natural cotton fibres.
Cotton fabrics may contract when exposed to high temperatures in washing machines or tumble dryers. Many bedding manufacturers recommend washing fitted sheets at 30°C or 40°C to minimise shrinkage.
Synthetic fabrics such as polyester or microfibre are generally more resistant to shrinking and often maintain their shape more easily after repeated washing.
Buying fitted sheets with slightly more depth than your mattress measurement can also help prevent problems if the fabric shrinks slightly over time.
Read more from The Sleep Guy
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