The Handbook

Rehab Your Bedding

We spend a third of our lives in bed. It's a place meant for rest, relaxation (and hopefully a little recreation). And even though most of us are fine spending the necessary cash on some nice shoes or a jacket, we neglect our sheets—an item we use everyday. You don't want to be the guy with ratty sheets. Especially when you've got an overnight guest. Herewith, everything you need to make an informed purchasing decision.

Oxford Cotton

 

The 4.2 ounce cotton has been brushed for softness, but will get even softer after each wash, not unlike your favorite shirt.

Example: Lands' End

Egyptian Cotton

 

Woven from the long fibers of a specific cotton plant grown along the Nile, which makes for a particularly durable and soft fabric.

Example: Macy's Hotel Collection

Bamboo

 

These cool, breathable sheets wick away moisture and are naturally antibacterial making them ideal for warm weather.

Example: BedVoyage

Sateen

 

Finely spun cotton creates a silky smooth set of sheets with a hint of sheen (but without the delicate nature or cheesy shine of satin).

Example: Crate & Barrel

Thread Count

It's essentially a marketing ploy. Quality 250-thread-count sheets can be a lot softer than cheap 900-thread-count sets which can feel like sandpaper. Forget the numbers and just go with what feels good.

Washing

According to Philip M. Tierno Jr., director of clinical microbiology at NYU's Langone Medical Center, you should wash sheets once a week in hot water to rid them of sweat, dirt, dead skin and dust mites.