Before you start shopping, you will need to get familiar with the flat sheet sizes. This is necessary to avoid confusion with the fitted sizes.
The Flat Sheet Dimensions
The king and California king measures 108 x 102 inches. The queen size is 90 x 102 inches while the full size is 81 x 96 inches. The X-long twin measures 66 x 102 inches. The twin flat sheet measures 66 x 96 inches.
The Fitted Sheet Sizes
To avoid mistakes, you will need to get familiar with these sizes as well. The twin size measures 39 x 75 inches while the X-long twin is 39 x 80 inches. The full size is 54 x 75 inches and the queen size is 60 x 80 inches. The king fitted sheet is 76 x 80 inches while the California king is 72 x 84 inches.
Does Size Matter?
In the case of flat sheets, size is not that critical. For example, you can use the wrong flat sheet size and it will still come out all right. The reason is that the flat cover is just placed on the fitted sheet. That isn’t the case with fitted sheets. The size has to match the sheets because it has to be fitted on the mattress.
Other Factors to Consider
The thread counts are the numbers you read in the product description (i.e., 300, 400 etc.). 80 to 190 thread counts are low and will have a rough feel to it. 200 to 280 thread counts will produce soft sheets.
But for a few dollars more, the 300 to 400 count sheets will provide warmth and comfort. The premium flat covers will have 500 and higher thread counts.
The fabric used is also crucial. The best material is Egyptian cotton. Other good choices are silk, bamboo fiber and polyester. Polyester can be blended with various materials. Flannel is often blended with cotton.
With flannel, ounces of flannel may be indicated. Look for those with at least 4 or 5 oz. These kinds of flannels will be very comfortable
Tips
Make it a point to check as many online stores as possible. Many stores sell discounted items; you don’t want to miss out on these stuff. Competition has also forced retail stores to sell at discounted prices.
It is very important that you look at the flat sheet sizes. If you are going to buy the items separately, look at the fitted sheet dimensions also so they match.