The temperature regulation, moisture absorption, and breathability are the main factors that influence comfort, along with texture. To illustrate, sheets made from bamboo and eucalyptus are both sourced from natural fibers and generally are softer and more breathable compared to the normal cotton. On the other hand, premium cotton, like Egyptian or Supima, guarantees outstanding longevity, moisture absorption, and a crisp feel that many consider to be hotel-like. As for synthetic fibers, such as microfiber or performance polyester blends, they usually are great in price and wrinkle resistance but may cause heat and moisture to be trapped more, which can lead to a very unpleasant situation for people who sweat at night. However, some of the synthetic materials developed today are the same as natural fibers in their capability to draw moisture away and thus keep the temperature almost the same.
We design and create premium hospital beds, and from my experience, the type of sheet can really affect sleep because it changes how hot or sweaty a person feels and how soft the bed feels. Cotton is soft and breathable but thick, and a high thread count cotton can get warm and make some people uncomfortable. Bamboo and eucalyptus sheets can keep your body temp cooler and can manage moisture better, which helps people who sweat a lot at night. Synthetic sheets like microfiber or Tencel last longer and stretch, but they can trap heat. The biggest difference is when good sheets are combined with the right bed support. Using a moisture-wicking sheet on the bottom and a soft sheet on top can make sleep more comfortable while keeping the bed easy to clean and maintain.
I have been working in roofing, but since my schedule and the Florida heat compel me to consider sleep a part of my work, I have to treat it as such. The experience of working long days on hot roofs taught me that the temperature control can influence the recovery significantly so I am very attentive to the behaviors of various materials of sheets. That provides me with a realistic perception of what works in actual sense to help the body rest. Eucalyptus and bamboo sheets have good breathability since the fibers absorb moisture and cooler to the touch. They maintain the temperature and this is important when one resides in a humid environment. Cotton is very familiar and robust, whereas a sateen weave will be warmer and percale colder. Artificial fibers are not stretchy and remain soft but they ensure more warmth and have the ability to generate temperature variations during the night. The difference is simple. Slipping sheets that carry away the body heat and moisture enhance deeper sleep that is not interrupted. I see the same rule in roofing. Regulating materials are always more effective. Bedding works the same way. Choose the material that maintains your temperature and comfort will come with it.