What Are Supima Cotton Sheets?

Supima cotton sheets are made from extra-long staple cotton that is grown in the United States. Supima is a branded type of cotton that is known for its softness, durability, and breathability, making it an excellent choice for bedding.

What Makes Supima Cotton Special?

Supima cotton is a variety of Pima cotton grown primarily in California, Arizona, and Texas. Here are some key things that make Supima cotton stand out:

Extra Long Staple Fibers

Supima cotton fibers are longer than traditional cotton fibers, with an extra-long staple length of 1 3/8 inches or longer. The longer cotton fibers are stronger and smoother than regular short-staple cotton. This gives Supima cotton exceptional softness, strength, and a lustrous sheen.

Grown in the USA

Unlike most cotton which is imported, 100% of Supima cotton is grown in the United States. The stringent growing regulations of American cotton result in a consistently high quality crop.

Premium Grade Fiber

Only the top 3% of U.S. cotton is classified as Supima. It has been bred over decades to have longer, stronger fibers that create smoother and more durable yarn. Supima cotton is exceptionally consistent, uniform, and near flawless.

Breathable and Cooling

The longer fibers of Supima cotton allow more air circulation in the fabric weave. This creates a very breathable material that stays cooler to the touch compared to regular cotton.

Absorbs Moisture

Supima cotton does an excellent job absorbing skin moisture and sweat. At the same time, the fibers don’t hold onto the moisture. This property keeps skin dry and comfortable.

Minimal Pilling or Fraying

The tight weave and strong, smooth fibers of Supima cotton make it very resistant to pilling or fraying with regular use and washing. Properly cared for Supima sheets get softer over time.

Rich, Brilliant Colors

Supima cotton fabrics hold dye exceptionally well. The colors stay vibrant and saturated wash after wash. Prints and patterns are crisper and more defined.

Why Choose Supima Cotton Sheets?

With its premium quality fibers and performance features, Supima cotton makes an exceptional choice when shopping for bed sheets.

Luxurious Softness

The long smooth fibers of Supima cotton have a silkiness that creates a luxurious smooth feel against the skin. The softness feels gentle and plush.

Excellent Durability

The tightly woven long-staple fibers are less prone to pilling and fraying. Supima cotton sheets retain their beauty and resist thinning after frequent washing.

Breathability

The breathability of the fabric keeps sleepers cool and comfortable year-round. The sheets resist overheating or that sticky feeling some fabrics can have.

Easy Care

Supima cotton is machine washable and dryer safe at normal settings. The color retention and wrinkle resistance make the sheets easy to launder and care for.

Great for Sensitive Skin

The natural hypoallergenic properties of cotton combined with the smooth long fibers of Supima make the sheets ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

Affordable Luxury

While pricier than regular cotton, Supima sheets cost notably less than other luxury fabrics like silk or high thread count Egyptian cotton. The exceptional quality and durability provide an affordable luxury.

What Thread Count is Best for Supima Sheets?

Supima cotton is woven into sheets ranging from 200 to 1500 thread count. While higher thread count sheets can feel softer and silkier initially, the quality of the cotton itself makes more difference than thread count alone. For Supima cotton sheets, a thread count between 300-600 provides the best balance of softness, breathability and durability. Lightweight Supima sheets with a 280-300 thread count are ideal for warm climates. Percale weaves around 300-400 thread count have a cool crisp feel, while 500-600 thread count sateen weaves drape beautifully and feel lustrous.

Popular Weaves for Supima Sheets

Supima cotton bed sheets come in different weave styles, each giving the fabric a distinctive look and feel.

Percale

Tight one-over, one-under weave
Matte finish and crisp texture
More breathable
Durable and resists pilling
Perfect for cooler weather

Sateen

Loosely woven with up to four over, one under
Smooth luxurious feel
Light sheen and luster
Not quite as breathable
Works well for cooler and warmer weather

Twill

Diagonal pattern weave
Soft drape and flexibility
Subtle sheen
Adds durability over satin
Great year-round weave

Jersey Knit

Very stretchy knit material
Ultra soft and flexible feel
Works well for fitted sheets

What are the Best Thread Counts for Different Weaves?

The weave style plays a role in what thread count works best to deliver the desired look and feel.

Percale – 200 to 400 thread count is ideal. 300-400 has a smooth crisp feel. Above 400 reduces breathability.
Sateen – Look for 300 to 600 thread count. 500-600 is luxuriously smooth with a luminous sheen. Higher than 600 can be less breathable.
Twill – Thread counts of 300 to 500 work well. The twill weave is luxurious at 400-500 thread count.
Jersey Knit – Knit sheets don’t have a thread count. Focus instead on the grade of the cotton and percentage of stretch.

What Are the Different Types of Supima Sheets?

Supima cotton is used to produce a wide selection of sheet styles and designs.

Bed Sheet Sets

Includes fitted sheet, flat sheet, and pillowcases. Available in all standard mattress sizes from twin to California king. Four-piece sets include two pillowcases while six-piece sets include four pillowcases.

Duvet Covers

A duvet cover is used to cover and protect a comforter or duvet insert. Supima duvet covers add lightweight softness for warmer weather. Available in all sizes with buttons or ties to seal.

Blankets and Quilts

Quilts and blankets made with Supima cotton offer enhanced softness, breathability and easy care compared to other materials. Perfect for layering the bed.

Coverlets

Lightweight cotton coverlets can be used in place of a top sheet. Often decorative like a duvet cover, but without the insert.

Fitted Sheets

Stretchy Supima cotton fitted sheets hug the mattress smoothly. Available for all standard mattress depths.

Flat Sheets

Pair your fitted sheet with a coordinating flat sheet to complete the bedding set. Available in twin to California king sizes.

Pillowcases

Add one or more pillowcases to fit and protect your pillows. Standard sizes are available. King pillowcases can fit oversized pillows.

Cotton Throws

Lightweight cotton throws add warmth and softness at the foot of the bed or for cozy lounging.

What Are the Best Supima Sheet Brands?

Many top bedding brands now offer Supima cotton sheets that highlight the exceptional qualities of this extra-long staple cotton. Some of the leading brands for Supima sheets include:

Boll & Branch – Ethically produced luxury sheets woven from 100% organic Supima cotton. Available in percale, sateen and twill weaves.
Brooklinen – Direct-to-consumer brand with heirloom quality Supima sheets in both percale and luxe sateen weaves.
Cariloha – Known for eco-friendly bamboo bedding, Cariloha also makes heavenly soft Supima bamboo sheet sets.
Coyuchi – Bohemian chic bedding crafted from organic and fair trade certified Supima cotton.
Crane and Canopy – Boutique designer offering a range of solid and patterned Supima sheet sets and accessories.
Parachute Home – Premium Supima sheets in sateen and percale weaves. Available in a relaxed, modern color palette.
Snowe – This home essentials brand focuses on quality craftsmanship including Supima sateen and percale sheets.
The Company Store – Heritage retailer with a wide selection of stripes and prints on premium Supima cotton bedding.

What’s the Difference Between Supima and Egyptian Cotton?

Both Supima and Egyptian cotton are high-quality extra-long staple cotton prized for bed sheets. Here are some key differences:

Origin – Supima is 100% American grown while Egyptian cotton is imported.
Staple Length – Egyptian cotton fibers are slightly longer at 1.5 inches vs 1 3/8 inches for Supima.
Growing Conditions – Egypt’s hot arid climate contributes to strong cotton fibers. Supima adheres to USDA standards.
Appearance – Supima has a smooth refined look. Egyptian cotton is known for its luxurious sheen.
Cost – Egyptian cotton is more expensive due to limited supply. Supima offers similar quality for less.

While specifics vary by brand and weave, Supima and Egyptian sheets have a comparably soft, sturdy feel. Personal preference in terms of buttery softness vs crisp coolness can help determine the best option.

What’s the Difference Between Supima and Pima Cotton?

Supima and Pima cotton come from the same plant species, gossypium barbadense. Here are the key differences:

Origin – Pima cotton can be grown in other countries while Supima is only American-grown.
Quality – Only the top 3% of U.S. Pima harvest makes the cut for Supima classification.
Staple Length – Supima maintains an extra-long staple length of over 1 3/8 inches. Pima can have shorter fibers.
Firmness – Supima cotton goes through extensive testing to ensure uniform firmness and tensile strength.
Certification – Supima cotton is certified by a trademark licensing program for quality. Pima is a generic term.

Supima represents the highest grades of American Pima cotton with performance testing for consistency.

What’s Better for Sheets: Supima or Upland Cotton?

Upland cotton, also known as American cotton, makes up the bulk of cotton produced in the United States. Here’s how it compares with Supima cotton for bed sheets:

Staple length – Upland cotton fibers are shorter at around 1 to 1 1/4 inches versus over 1 3/8 inches for Supima.
Softness – The shorter fibers of upland cotton create sheets with a stiffer, rougher feel compared to the luxurious softness of Supima.
Durability – Upland cotton pills more easily and loses its color and shape faster than smoother, stronger Supima fibers.
Breathability – With its shorter fibers, upland cotton tends to retain more heat. Supima feels more breathable year-round.
Price – Upland cotton sheets are cheaper as a mass-produced commodity crop. Supima costs more but delivers premium performance.

While upland cotton has improved over the years, Supima remains far superior in terms of softness, durability, breathability and maintaining its color and feel after repeated laundering. For the best bed sheets, Supima is worth the investment over standard upland cotton.

How to Choose the Best Supima Cotton Sheets

Follow these tips when shopping for the highest quality Supima cotton sheets:

100% Supima Cotton – Ensure sheets are made with only Supima cotton and no blended fabrics.
Thread Count – For percale 300-400, for sateen 500-600. Higher thread counts are not necessarily better.
Weave Style – Compare percale, sateen, twill and knit weaves to find your ideal texture.
Good Returns – Try out sheets since feel is personal. Look for free shipping both ways.
Ethical Brands – Seek out OEKO-TEX certified or Fair Trade brands for safe, sustainable textiles.
Read Reviews – Look for brands with overwhelmingly positive feedback on softness, quality and durability.
Comparison Shop – Be aware of prices for 100% Supima sheets and look for sales on your desired thread count and weave.

Taking the time to find high quality Supima sheets helps ensure many years of restful sleep ahead. Check out our top picks for the best Supima cotton sheets you can buy today.

How Much Do Supima Cotton Sheets Cost?

The price for a set of Supima cotton sheets can range from $100 to $500 or more depending on the brand, weave style and thread count you select.

Here are some typical price ranges you can expect:

Entry-level: $100 to $150 for a basic 300 thread count percale or twill set.
Mid-range: $200 to $300 for name brand 400-500 thread count Supima sheets.
Luxury: $400 to $500+ for a 600 thread count sateen set from a premium designer brand.
Organic: Expect to add $50 or more for organic Supima cotton options.
Additional Items: Pillowcases, duvet covers and sheet sets with more than 4 pieces add to the total cost.

While Supima sheets are not cheap, many find them a worthwhile investment for years of luxurious comfort. The exceptional durability also helps offset the initial higher prices.

How to Care for Supima Cotton Sheets

Follow these best practices to keep Supima sheets looking and feeling their best:

Wash in cold water using a mild detergent. Avoid hot water to prevent damage and fading.
Use the gentle or delicate cycle if possible to reduce agitation.
Air or tumble dry on low heat. Remove the sheets as soon as drying is complete to avoid over-drying.
Avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets as they can coat the fibers and diminish the soft Supima feel.
Lightly press or steam if needed to remove wrinkles between washes. Be careful not to scorch delicate Supima fibers.
Spot clean stains gently using cold water and minimal detergent. Don’t use bleach.
Allow sheets to breathe by making the bed with freshly washed linens. Avoid leaving sheets balled up in the dryer.

With the proper care, Supima cotton sheets become softer and perform better wash after wash without excessive shrinking, pilling or tearing.

How Often Should You Wash Supima Sheets?

Supima cotton sheets can go 1 to 2 weeks between washings for a single sleeper. Wash them at least once a week for couples. You may need to wash them after only a few nights if you sweat heavily in your sleep. Signs it’s time for a wash include:

Visible dirt, stains or dust particles on the sheets
An odor, musty smell or not fresh
Feels rough, crispy or scratchy
Excess wrinkles or creases have developed
Sheets feel overly warm and no longer breathable

Washing Supima cotton sheets too frequently, especially in hot water, can cause excessive wear. But failing to wash sheets regularly allows oils, sweat and dead skin cells to build up. Find the right balance for washing based on use and condition. Having multiple Supima sheet sets makes it easier to launder them less often.

How to Make Supima Cotton Sheets Softer

Try these tips to soften up new or older Supima cotton sheets:

Wash and dry the sheets to remove any residual coating from the manufacturing process. The fibers relax after a cycle through the laundry.
Use fabric softener during the rinse cycle. Liquid softeners work better than dryer sheets for cotton bedding.
Add vinegar during the rinse. The acid in vinegar helps break down detergent residue that can stiffen cotton fibers.
Skip the dryer and line dry sheets in fresh air. Gentle hang drying prevents over-drying that can give sheets a harsh feel.
Use dryer balls like wool or rubber balls to soften sheets in the dryer without chemicals. They help separate and fluff up the cotton.
Try a hair conditioner diluted with water as a DIY sheet softener during laundering.

With a little extra TLC when washing, those super soft Supima sheets you love when new can stay silky smooth for years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Supima Cotton Sheets

What makes Supima cotton different than regular cotton?

Supima cotton fibers are longer, stronger and softer than regular cotton due to an extra-long staple length. The premium quality fibers also absorb dye better resulting in vibrant colors that last.

Are Supima sheets worth the money?

While more expensive initially, most find the investment in Supima sheets worthwhile for their exceptional softness, breathability, easy care and durability over years of use.

How do you know if sheets are made from Supima cotton?

Check labels for the Supima brand name and logo to ensure authentic certified Supima cotton. 100% Supima cotton content will also be indicated.

Should you buy Supima cotton sheets with a high thread count?

You can find luxuriously soft Supima sheets across a range of thread counts based on the weave style. In general 300-600 thread count is ideal. Higher thread counts are not necessarily better.

What are the softest Supima cotton sheets?

Buttery soft sateen weave Supima sheets around