Cotton Flannel Fabric

If you’re thinking about buying a new set of bed sheets, it might be worth checking out the softness of cotton flannel fabric versus the stiffer texture of a cotton sheet. The difference isn’t just the thread count—it also depends on the type of cotton and how it was woven.

When you compare flannel and cotton sheets, it’s important to remember that different types of fabric have different temperature-regulating properties. Flannel, for example, can feel warmer because it contains insulating air pockets that trap heat.

A cotton sheet, on the other hand, can feel cool because it lets warm air escape easily and doesn’t hold on to your body heat as much. That’s why people tend to prefer flannel sheets for winter nights when they want to feel cozy and comfy.

Unlike cotton, flannel is brushed to create extra softness. This process causes a thin, loosely spun yarn to rise and nap on one or both sides of the fabric.

This resulting softness may be the key to why flannel is so popular in clothing and sleepwear. It’s an ideal choice for plaid shirts, t-shirts, pajamas, and blankets.

You can find a variety of styles and patterns of flannel fabric, including wool and synthetic varieties. Both are incredibly versatile and can be used for all sorts of projects. In addition to flannel clothing, you can use flannel in bedding and other home decor items. Typically, the flannel fabrics in these products are made from either cotton or wool.