Queen Bed Sheet

History of the Queen Size Bed

Before we discuss the queen bed sheet, I think a little history would be nice.

The queen size bed was first manufactured by the Simmons Company in 1958.   The dimensions of the bed were 60 inches by 80 inches whereas the dimensions of a full size bed were 54 inches by 75 inches.    This gave a couple 30 inches of space compared to only 27 inches on a regular full size bed.  This new size bed was promoted as being “fit for a queen” and thus became known as a queen size bed.  Incidentally the king size bed was also introduced at this time.

Different Types of Queen Size Beds

If you are a new owner of a queen size bed, be sure you purchase the right sheets for your bed as there are now several types of queen beds to choose from.

The California queen mattress is 60 inches wide and 84 inches long instead of 80 inches long.  The sheets for this size mattress are sometimes referred to as Queen XL so before purchasing your new sheets be sure to check the dimensions as this size sheet is not as common and is harder to find.

The Olympic queen size mattress has a standard length of 80 inches but is 66 inches wide instead of 60 inches.  This size, like the California queen, is harder to find as well.

A Split Queen size bed is comprised of two mattresses that are both 30 inches wide by 80 inches long.  When placed side by side on the box springs it is the same size as a normal queen size bed and the regular queen bed sheet will cover both mattresses.

Selecting Your Queen Bed Sheet

All sheets come in a variety of different colors, designs and textures.  While the color and designs are important for decorating purposes, the
texture is vitally important for your comfort.

What is Thread Count?

Basically, the definition of thread count is this; the number of both vertical and horizontal threads in a one inch square of fabric.  The finer the threads that are woven into the sheeting the softer, smoother and more delicate the sheet will be.  So the finer the threads the more threads there are in a one inch fabric square.  This is known as a high thread count and is preferred by many people.  Sheets that are woven with two ply threads are generally heavier, more durable and sometimes coarser.

Thread counts can range anywhere from 80 to 800 with some Egyptian sheets having a thread count of 1,200.  A thread count of 180 to 350
seems to be the type most purchased as is sheets made of 100% cotton.

Cotton  sheets are very soft and the fabric is breathable.  They
therefore keep you cool in the summer and warmer in the winter.  It really is just a matter of personal preference and what is the most comfortable to you so use the thread count as a guide when purchasing sheets.  Keep in mind that the higher the thread count the more sheets will usually cost and the lower the thread count the cheaper the cost.

Different Fabric Types

Bed sheets come in several different types of fabric.

For those who love wearing t-shirts, sheets come in a jersey knit.  Jersey knit is usually very soft and comfortable just like your favorite t-shirt.

Percale is a closely woven fabric with a high thread count of usually 200 or more which gives it a silky feel.   Percale sheets can be made of a blend of polyester and cotton, linen and cotton, 100% cotton or any other kind of thread.  The word, percale, actually refers to the quality of the weave as percale sheeting is one of the finest you can buy.

For the winter months nothing beats snuggling down between soft, cozy and warm flannel sheets.  These are usually made from  cotton twill weave or plain fabric with a napped finish.

For those who prefer an elegant look there are Sateen queen bed sheets.  This type of weave has more yarn surface on the cloth than other basic weaves giving it a softer and more polished appearance.

Check This Before Purchasing Your Queen Bed Sheet

One of the most important things to know besides the thread count and fabric type is the depth of your mattress.   Be sure to measure the thickness of your mattress before purchasing your sheets.   You want to make sure that the pockets, that is the part of the sheet that fits around the corners of your mattress, are deep enough.  If not, they will usually slip off on one or more corners of the mattress during the night.  The depth of the pockets on fitted sheets can be anywhere from 6 inches to 16 inches.  You can also find sheets with extra deep 22 inch pockets which make it easier to put on the bed and they also stay in place without slipping off.

Now you have all the basic information you need in order to purchase one queen bed sheet or a whole closet full.  Happy shopping!