Jersey knit sheets have become very popular. Those who love to sleep on jersey knit sheets liken them to the feel of a broken-in T-shirt, making for a more comfortable night. But they can be somewhat fussier than other sheets in your linen closet, so be prudent when determining if these knit sheets will work for you.
Function
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Similar to all sheets, jersey knit sheet sets cover your bed to provide a comfortable night's sleep and a hygienic, removable, washable covering. The difference is that jersey knit sheets are made of a fabric similar to a standard T-shirt, so they're softer and immediately comfortable. There's no need to wash them several times to get that broken-in feeling of a comfortable sheet.
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Types
Jersey knit sheets are available in all sizes--king, queen, full and twin--but you might see them first in your child's crib. Because of the softness of the material, jersey knit sheets are commonly available as a crib mattress covering.
Warning
The comfortable feel of the sheet comes at a price. Many manufacturers recommend washing jersey knit sheets in cold water to avoid shrinkage. While this avoids shrinking the fabric, it isn't the most hygienic option for a sheet. Warm to hot water is generally recommended, especially if you're laundering to rid the sheets of potential dust mites. In this case, since dust mites won't die off in a cooler wash, sheets must be washed in hot water, which can damage the sheet.
Considerations
The popularity of jersey knit sheets has brought on quality issues with some sets. If you've bought a set, examine it carefully before washing. If the die for the pillows is different than the die for the sheets, or if one of the sheets looks different than the other, return them. The set you've got is a mix of lots, which can present problems with uneven wear and an uneven response to washing. The sheets and pillows must all come from the same die lot for them to wear evenly across the entire set.
Benefits
A good jersey knit sheet set is a wonderful covering for your bed. The instant comfort and cool offered by these sheets can't be beat on a hot summer night. And that wonderful, broken-in feeling can aid in a good night's sleep in any weather.