Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Anna’s Linens FAQ page. Find quick answers to the most common bedding questions below — from choosing the right sheets to caring for your duvet. Click any link to read our full in-depth guides.
Bedding Basics
What is bedding?
Bedding refers to all the materials used to cover and provide comfort on a bed — including sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, duvet inserts, comforters, blankets, and mattress protectors.
What are the standard bedding sizes?
The most common US sizes are Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King. Always match your bedding size to your mattress for a proper fit. If you have a pillow-top or thick mattress, look for deep pocket fitted sheets (15" or more).
How often should I wash my bedding?
Sheets and pillowcases: every 1–2 weeks. Duvet covers: every 2–4 weeks. Duvet inserts and comforters: every 3–6 months. Always follow the care label on each item.
Can bedding affect sleep quality?
Yes. Breathability, temperature regulation, and comfort all influence how well you sleep. Choosing bedding suited to your sleep style — whether you run hot or cold — can make a meaningful difference.
Percale Sheets
What are percale sheets?
Percale is a weave — not a fiber. It uses a one-over-one-under pattern to create a tight, breathable fabric with a crisp, matte finish. Most percale sheets are 100% cotton.
Who are percale sheets best for?
Percale is ideal for warm sleepers, hot climates, and anyone who prefers a cool, crisp feel. It’s also highly durable and softens with every wash.
How is percale different from sateen?
Percale is crisp, cool, and matte. Sateen is smooth, silky, and slightly lustrous. Percale breathes better; sateen feels warmer and more immediately luxurious.
→ Read our full Percale Sheets Guide | Percale vs. Sateen | Percale vs. Cotton
Egyptian Cotton Sheets
What makes Egyptian cotton special?
Egyptian cotton has an extra-long staple length, which allows for finer, smoother, and stronger yarn. The result is a softer, more durable sheet that gets better with every wash.
How do I identify genuine Egyptian cotton?
Look for “100% Egyptian cotton” on the label and certifications from the Cotton Egypt Association. Be skeptical of very high thread counts — quality Egyptian cotton doesn’t need inflated numbers.
→ Read our full Egyptian Cotton Guide
Deep Pocket Sheets
What are deep pocket sheets?
Deep pocket sheets have fitted corners designed to accommodate mattresses thicker than 14 inches — including memory foam, pillow-top, and mattresses with toppers. Pocket depths typically range from 15–22 inches.
How do I know if I need them?
Measure your mattress (including any topper) from top to bottom. If it exceeds 14 inches, you need deep pocket sheets. Over 18 inches? Look for “extra deep pocket” options.
→ Read our full Deep Pocket Sheets Guide
Silk, Satin & Sateen Sheets
What’s the difference between silk, satin, and sateen?
Silk is a natural fiber from silkworms. Satin is a weave — it can be made from silk, polyester, or blends. Sateen is a cotton fabric woven in a satin-style pattern. Most affordable “satin” sheets are polyester; sateen is cotton.
Which is the best everyday choice?
Sateen cotton offers the best balance of luxury feel, breathability, and easy care. Silk is the ultimate in natural luxury but requires more delicate handling. Polyester satin is budget-friendly but less breathable.
→ Read our full Silk vs. Satin vs. Sateen Guide
Duvet Cover Sets
What is a duvet cover set?
A duvet cover set includes a duvet cover and matching pillow shams or pillowcases. The cover encases your duvet insert, protecting it from stains and wear while letting you change your bedroom’s look easily.
What’s the difference between a duvet and a comforter?
A comforter is an all-in-one piece — fill sewn inside a shell, used as-is. A duvet is an insert used inside a removable cover. Duvets are easier to maintain (just wash the cover) and more versatile in style.
Can I use a duvet cover without a duvet insert?
Yes — a duvet cover can be used alone as a lightweight top layer, or stuffed with a blanket or quilt for added warmth.
→ Read our full Duvet Cover Set Guide | Duvet vs. Comforter
Shop Our Bedding Collections
Still have questions? Browse our full Bedding & Home Decor Collections at Anna’s Linens — featuring percale sheets, Egyptian cotton bedding, duvet cover sets, silk sheets, and more, all curated for quality and comfort.
You can also explore our individual buying guides linked above for in-depth information on each topic.