Now that we’re in the thick of winter, cozying up at home means going from zero to toasty as quickly as possible when jumping into bed each night. One of the best ways to get (and stay!) warm is by swapping out your lightweight percale or linen sheets for a set of the best flannel sheets. Made with cotton or synthetic fibers with a soft, textured fuzzy finish called a "nap," flannel sheets are not only cuddly, they will trap your body heat, making for a nice, warm cocoon. Before all you hot sleepers roll your eyes and close this tab, however, read on a bit further to find out about the latest crop of luxurious sets that won't leave you waking up in a pool of sweat, either.
The 12 Best Flannel Sheets You'll Want to Snuggle Into in 2024
From ultra-warm options to breathable sets for sweaty sleepers
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The Best Flannel Sheets at a Glance
How We Chose the Best Flannel Sheets
A good flannel sheet should be soft to the touch and hold up for wear and washing (you can find more on that at the bottom of this article). So, after sifting through thousands of top-rated sets and customer reviews, we made sure each flannel was a) well-weighted with at least 160 grams or 5 ounces, b) treated to resist pilling, wrinkling and shrinking in the wash and c) brushed—or double brushed—for an extra fuzzy feel.
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Best Flannel Sheets Overall
1. Lands' End Luxe Flannel Sheet Set
Pros
- 6 colors
- monogrammable
- resists piling and shrinking
- deep pockets
Cons
- twin and twin XL sizes only include one pillowcase
Lands' End
First up: a set that will make the ordinary a little extraordinary. This luxurious weave is made from the best, featuring a soft, 100 percent Supima cotton blend using the top 3 percent of cotton grown in the USA. The set includes two pillowcases (or only one case for twin and twin XL sets), one fitted sheet and a flat sheet—and they even have inside ties to help prevent twisting or shifting. The cherry on top? You can monogram it where the emblem will be placed on the top sheet (centered on the hem at the top) and on the pillowcases (again, at the top of the hem facing outward). That means that when the sheet is folded down and pillows are propped upright, the design is readable from the end of the bed.
“If there is a downside to these sheets, it’s that they make it so hard to get out of bed in the morning. They are THAT good,” one reviewer raves. In fact, the set has more than 900 five-star reviewers who are equally obsessed. “Although we have deep mattresses, at first we were concerned with the 'oversize' of these flannel sheets…that concern was unfounded—the deep pockets fit perfectly—and now we don't know how we ever lived without them! The six-ounce weight makes quite a difference in the softness, they just hug you back and chase away the chill. Easily the softest flannel we've ever owned,” one shopper writes.
What’s more, they’ll hold up over time: “I washed them thoroughly before use, as I always do, to remove lint, and minimize pilling. I used Woolite on the Bedding cycle with hot water—they did not shrink at all. Once I washed the velour finish off, they bloomed into thick, warm, luxurious sheets with a deep nap,” another reviewer adds.
Fast Facts
- Sizes: twin, twin xl, full, queen, king, Cal king
- Material: Supima cotton
- Weight: 6 ounces
Softest Flannel Sheets
2. L.L. Bean Ultrasoft Flannel Sheet Set
Pros
- inside ties to avoid twisting or shifting
- unique pill-resistant technology
- brushed for extra softness
Cons
- only includes one pillowcase for twin-size
L.L. Bean
This uber-soft set is the result of more than two years of meticulous craftsmanship and collaboration with flannel experts in Portugal. It’s made from 100 percent brushed cotton flannel with a 5-ounce weight, so it offers a cozy and velvety smooth feel that promises to get softer with each wash (per the brand). Add to that the fact that the manufacturer perfected an exclusive process to ensure superior pill-resistant fabric, making it highly durable and resistant to shrinking, fading and pilling. (It’s also worth mentioning that some lint buildup may occur initially due to the brushed flannel construction; that will diminish with each wash.) The set includes one flat sheet, one fitted sheet and two cases, (one case for twin size) and it’s tested for harmful substances.
Take it from one happy customer who raves, “These are literally the softest sheets I’ve ever slept on. Not to knock the other set of L.L. Bean flannel sheets we have (they’re great too!), but these are EXCEPTIONALLY soft. Worth every penny.” Plus, according to another shopper, they deliver on durability and are approved for hot sleepers: “I’ve had these sheets for four years and they’re my go-to's. They are soft and warm, yet breathable, which is important for me now that I am having night sweats and hot flashes. I find 5-ounce flannel just right; 6 ounces is too dense. I have tried several other brands, and these remain the softest and most breathable.”
Fast Facts
- Sizes: twin, full, queen, king, Cal king
- Material: 100% brushed cotton flannel
- Weight: 5 ounces
Best Value
3. Quince Luxury Organic Flannel Sheet Set
Pros
- breathable organic cotton
- organic and good for sensitive skin
- affordable for the quality
- fits mattresses up to 16 inches deep
Cons
- goes out of stock quickly
- only 2 color options
Quince
Enveloping warmth is just the cherry on top of this set’s 100 percent organic cotton flannel—and it’s a perfect choice for anyone with sensitive skin and allergies. While the STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX certificate guarantees that it’s free from harmful chemicals or pesticides, it’s also built to be remarkably breathable and lightweight on the skin. This luxurious construction also comes with the added benefit of dual-sided brushing, which means it’s exceptionally soft and engineered with long-lasting resistance to pilling after numerous washes. Plus, with a substantial 5.3-ounce weight, the set offers extra softness while the fitted sheet accommodates mattresses up to 16 inches deep (securely held in place with elastic all around).
Take it from one hot sleeper who says, “I’m so pleased with these flannel sheets. [My partner and I are] both hot sleepers but wanted the comfort of getting into a cozy bed—these sheets fit the bill perfectly in the winter. They’re soft and comfortable, have ample room to fit over our mattress, which makes making the bed easier than with most sheets, and aren’t too thick like some other brands.” Another reviewer also mentions: “They’re very well made and durable. After two washes, there has been very little pilling. Additionally, the king size fits great, especially the flat sheet. I found the price to be unbeatable when considering the make (not manufactured in China), size, color, warmth, quality, material and shipping.”
Fast Facts
- Sizes: twin, full, queen, king, Cal king
- Material: organic cotton
- Weight: 5.3 ounces
Most Splurge-Worthy Flannel Sheets
4. Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Sheet Set
Pros
- enhanced with a plant-based softener
- 100 percent organic and toxin-free
- ideal for sensitive skin
- shrink- and pill-resistant
Cons
- expensive
Coyuchi
The sumptuous embrace of these cloud-like, thick organic brushed cotton sheets is more than just soft—they promise velvety warmth and unparalleled comfort (without toxic chemicals, per the brand's ethos). First and foremost, the set is the epitome of eco-conscious luxury, crafted from a blend of 52 percent pre-consumer recycled cotton and 48 percent GOTS-certified organic cotton, woven with care in Portugal. This unique composition not only ensures durability but also reflects Coyuchi’s unwavering commitment to sustainability. It’s also expertly brushed and woven using a proprietary process and the 6-ounce flannel boasts a striped herringbone weave that’s designed to enhance their natural texture and performance. The 4-inch self-hem on flat sheets and pillowcases also add a touch of sophistication—they come neatly packed in a matching organic fabric bag—and they’re finished with a gentle, 100 percent plant-based softener.
One reviewer writes, “These flannel sheets are wonderfully welcoming. They’re thicker than other brands and fit perfectly to stay nice and flat even after a few nights of (much improved!) sleep. Also, I don’t usually like flannel pillowcases, but these have such a nice weave to them they don’t feel ‘nubby,’ they’re very comfortable. They also keep me warm without making me feel overheated…For a woman of a certain age, that’s a big plus!” And, according to another shopper, they’re made to last: “This is my second set. We have had a set for two years and absolutely love the softness of these…No pilling after two years of use with the first set. The top blanket has not shrunk and there is still good overlap down each side of the bed. My husband is also a cold sleeper, and I am a warm sleeper. These sheets suit both of us. They have great temperature control.”
Fast Facts
- Sizes: twin, full, queen, king, Cal king
- Material: recycled cotton and GOTS-certified organic cotton
- Weight: 6 ounces
Most Durable Flannel Sheets
5. L.L. Bean Premium Supima Flannel Sheets
Pros
- fade-resistant and anti-pill technology
- can last up to 10 years with proper care
- thick and warm
Cons
- expensive
- only available for purchase as a full set
L.L. Bean
If your main concern is pilling and longevity, look no further than (another) timeless staple from L.L. Bean. What sets these sheets apart is the Supima cotton, known for its longer fibers, making them exceptionally strong and sturdy. It’s also crafted from thicker and weightier 6-ounce fabric, so it’s engineered to offer minimal shrinkage and pilling even after long-term use. It also boasts lasting, fade-resistant color technology and features a double-sided brushing for added softness. And of course, the set has been tested for harmful substances and is made with breathable cotton to keep you from waking up drenched in sweat at 3 a.m.
Take it from numerous reviewers who say the set consistently proves to stay soft and pill-free for years: “We've had these sheets for two and a half years now. They are still soft and luxurious with NO PILLING after all this time. By far our favorite sheets.” Another person also writes, “Night after night, year after year [this set] does not disappoint. I had my last set for ten years but the fitted sheet finally ripped and needed replacing. Unfortunately, this is only sold as a complete set instead (or I would have just gotten the one replacement fitted sheet—the old set is still in good shape). This premium is the best. It’s the only set I have found that doesn't pill, even after ten years. Expensive but worth it because of how long it lasts.”
Fast Facts
- Sizes: full, queen, king
- Material: Supima cotton
- Weight: 6 ounces
Best Flannel Sheets Under $50
6. Mellanni Cotton Flannel Bed Sheets
Pros
- shrink- and wrinkle-resistant
- 13 colors and patterns
- under $45 for a twin
Cons
- accumulates a lot of lint after the first wash (dissipates over time)
Mellani
Coming in at just under $44 for a twin set, these sheets are soft, warm and as easy on the skin as they are on the eyes. They’re made from 100 percent cotton with a 160-gram flannel weight for a luxurious, velvety feel that’s equal parts lightweight and cozy. Not only that, but they’re easy to care for, pill-resistant and guaranteed to become even softer with every wash. Oh, and did we mention that it comes in 13 gorgeous colors and patterns?
“At first, I was concerned about the brightness of the green and the thick canvas feel of the fabric. After the first wash, the fabric softened (there was a handful of lint in the dryer) but the fabric and threads hold up perfectly with no noticeable shrinkage… I love how the color looks with my cotton duvet, feel like it is cheerful, inviting, and fresh,” writes one shopper. It’s also worth noting another reviewer's warning on care: “For the price, I think they're great. As stated in other reviews, there's lots of lint with the first wash/dry. Typical for flannel sheets. I checked my filter after 15 minutes and it was full, so I continued to check it about every 15 minutes. (Dryer vent fires due to a build-up of lint are in the top 5 causes of house fires). There was much less lint the second time they were washed. The sheets are so soft, and I haven't noticed any pilling.”
Fast Facts
- Sizes: twin, full, queen, king, Cal king
- Material: 100 percent cotton
- Weight: 160 grams
Best Deep-Pocket Flannel Sheets
7. Boll & Branch Flannel Solid Sheet Set
Pros
- 18-inch pockets prevent shifting
- triple shearing reduces pilling
- fitted sheet has top-stitched elastic bands
- king or standard pillowcase options
Cons
- expensive
Boll and Branch
This artisan-made Flannel Sheet Set features deep fitted pockets (16 inches for the twin size, 18 inches for all other sizes) to accommodate even the deepest mattresses. It’s also crafted with luxurious, 100 percent organic cotton, offering unmatched velvety softness with a breathable blend that doesn’t sacrifice warmth. The fabric undergoes triple shearing to naturally reduce the appearance of pills, and it has thoughtful details that include envelope closure pillowcases, a 5-inch hemline on the flat sheet and top-stitched elastic banding on the fitted sheet for a secure fit. Our personal favorite feature? You can minimize the minutes spent putting these sheets on the bed, since helpful tags help you avoid the eternal directional confusion between the long and short sides.
“These sheets are AMAZING! They fit perfectly on the bed and the pockets are deep. They are SO soft. I’ve washed them numerous times and yes, they get softer with each washing. I crawl into bed and don’t move. I’m nestled into a cocoon of softness. I thought maybe I was imagining just how wonderful they were, so I wanted another opinion. I bought the king flannel set for my daughter and her reaction was the same. I wish I could better describe how amazing these sheets are. If you’re hedging because of the price, just do it,” touts one reviewer. As for the pockets, another reviewer says, “We love the length of the flat sheet and that the pillowcases fit our king pillows perfectly—the pocket cuff at the end also adds a nice finish. We've been using them [for a year] and wash them weekly—they come out of the dryer without wrinkles, pilling and nubs.”
Fast Facts
- Sizes: twin, twin xl, full, queen, king, king w/ standard pillowcases, Cal king, split king
- Material: long-staple organic cotton
- Weight: N/A
Best Heavyweight Flannel Sheets
8. The Company Store Legends Hotel Flannel Sheet Set
Pros
- has a velvety silk-like feel
- engineered to resist pilling
- smooth on the skin
Cons
- will likely be too thick for year-round use
Company Store
Made from the Company Store’s new and improved 5-ounce flannel, these sheets are designed to be exceptionally durable (and irresistibly soft). The material was developed in collaboration with Portuguese textile masters, in which the 100 percent cotton undergoes careful combing to remove impurities and ensure a longer-lasting, pill-resistant finish. It also has a velvet-like hand that gives it a smooth, almost royally luxurious feel—and it’s about as close as you can get to feeling like you’re swaddled in silk. Bonus: The all-around elastic offers a secure fit on mattresses up to 16 inches deep.
“I am a total percale lover, as I get hot easily at night and love its soft, yet crisp feel… needless to say, I was nervous about ordering a set of flannel sheets. Still, I was also sick of crawling into cold sheets in these Midwest winters, so I decided to give these velvet flannel sheets a try. (I am so happy I did!) I washed them once and put them on the bed this past week when it got down to around 40 degrees at night. First, they look gorgeous on the bed—thick and crisp looking, yet very soft in feel. The look is that of thick hotel sheets. Next, I found that they were extremely soft and warm, yet not unpleasantly warm, and I have experienced no lint or shedding issues (even with my dark-colored pajamas). I was actually surprised I didn't sweat (although I had turned the thermostat to 68 just to be safe),” one reviewer raves. Still, they also warn that these are very warm: “Personally, I wouldn't use these unless it's 40 degrees or under at night. With that said, I think these will save me on heating costs at night.”
Fast Facts
- Sizes: twin, twin xl, full, queen, king
- Material: 100 percent cotton
- Weight: 5 ounces
Best Lightweight Flannel Sheets
9. Brooklinen Brushed Flannel Core Sheet Set
Pros
- 140 GSM is lightweight without sacrificing quality
- beautiful color and pattern options
- breathable and chemical-free
Cons
- less durable, due to the lighter GSM
Brooklinen
Brooklinen debuted its flannel sheet collection in 2021, which will “remind you of being tucked in as a kid during the holiday season—warm and comforted,” per a press release. Not only are the sheets OEKO-TEX certified and free of harmful chemicals, but they’re a more lightweight take—with the same warmth and softness—as the brand’s heathered cashmere sheets (at a lower price). The 100 percent cotton ensures it’s breathable and airy enough for ventilation while the lighter, 140 GSM weight makes it less heavy than most (high-quality) options on the market. Still, what we love most about this line is the cozy color and pattern options, from blue and grey buffalo plaid to windowpane and cream and white striped.
“I purchased these for my boyfriend because he’s always cold…I thought I was going to hate them, since I’ve never liked flannel sheets (and I sleep hot). I was so wrong—I’m obsessed with them! The softness is unlike any other sheets I’ve ever experienced. They are cozy and still breathable… If you appreciate soft and fuzzy things, these are your sheets,” one reviewer backs. Another person also speaks to its lightweight build, adding, “I was almost hesitant to get the flannel sheet set, and my husband was worried about them getting too hot and overheating in the middle of the night. Thankfully, that wasn't the case! They're just the right amount of cozy and warm, while still allowing adequate circulation to keep us comfortable while we sleep.”
Fast Facts
- Sizes: twin, full, queen, king, Cal king
- Material: 100 percent cotton flannel
- Weight: 140 GSM
Best Flannel Sheets for Hot Sleepers
10. Sheets & Giggles Eucalyptus Flannel Sheet Set
Pros
- blends eucalyptus lyocell with organic cotton
- naturally cooling and breathable
- silky smooth
- fits mattress up to 20 inches thick
Cons
- reviewers noted slight pilling over time
Sheets and Giggles
Unlike anything else on the market, this unique set combines 60 percent eucalyptus lyocell (aka an expert cooling fabric) with 40 percent organic cotton, resulting in unparalleled softness and breathability. Per the brand, the sheets maintain the perfect temperature balance even in chilly weather, all while being hypoallergenic and dermatologist recommended. It’s also crafted with thoughtful details, including a "Bottom Left Corner" tag on flat and fitted sheets and 360-degree elastic, extra-deep pockets (fits mattresses up to 20 inches thick) on the fitted sheets for a secure fit. Sustainability is also at the core of the brand, where the organic cotton's chemical-free, GMO-free, and water-efficient production makes it the most eco-conscious option on this list.
“Buying flannel sheets is a risk with my never-ending, ever-fluctuating quest for the perfect sleeping temp. I coveted the soft coziness of flannel in winter, yet feared making a sweat-drenched mistake (as most flannel sheets in the past have been). These flannel sheets…wow! They are like butta, Baby! You can feel the quality of the material and you can also feel the difference in texture. For a tactile person, these are pure heaven and don't feel quite like any other fabric. And I have no idea how they can be cozy and warm, yet not roasting hot. My husband is comfortable at the same time that I don't wake up sweaty with damp, wrinkled sheets,” one reviewer. raves.
Another reviewer backs this up: “I’m typically a hot sleeper but wanted these for the winter and was worried about sweating. Not at all! They are cozy but don’t make you hot. I also love the extra deep pockets since my mattress is 20 inches deep. It’s hard to find sheets that don’t slip off the corners and these definitely do not.”
Fast Facts
- Sizes: full, king, Cal king
- Material: eucalyptus lyocell and organic cotton
- Weight: N/A
Best Flannel Sheets at Amazon
11. Great Bay Home Flannel Sheet Set
Pros
- affordable
- 35 colors and patterns
- double brushed for softness
- wrinkle-, fade-, shrink- and pill-resistant
Cons
- cheaper price makes them more prone to pilling
- pockets are not deep (14 inches)
Great Bay Home
For year-round comfort—and style, thanks to its 35 patterns and colors—this is a great, budget-friendly set. They offer a cozy feel without overheating, thanks to the 170 GSM, and they remain relatively lightweight from the 100 percent Turkish cotton’s breathability. The set has also been pre-shrunk to be wrinkle-, fade-, shrink- and pill-resistant, and the double-brushed fabric offers a soft-to-the-touch feel. Plus, given its wallet-friendly price ($39 for a queen), you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more durable option.
Even better? They’re great for anyone with allergies: “I, being allergic to lint, dust, and alike, thought I could never use the flannels. I got this set because a friend swore that her flannel sheets are like silk, and never gave any lint. I am so happy I tried this flannel—soft, cuddly, warming you up right away. No lint flying around, not even a hint of it, even in my dryer's filter. That is the a testament to the high-quality material it’s made of.” Another reviewer also adds, “I love a soft flannel sheet and this one is no exception. These are so soft—really nice to have on the bed in the winter when it's cold. I washed them and dried them in the laundry with no issues, no shrinkage or any damage to them. They fit the mattress just fine, plenty deep enough for my already deep pocket mattress and topper.”
Fast Facts
- Sizes: twin, twin xl, full, queen, king, Cal king
- Material: Turkish cotton
- Weight: 170 GSM
Best Flannel Sheets for Kids
12. Eddie Bauer Patterned Flannel Sheet Set
Pros
- 24 kid-friendly patterns
- soft and holds up in the wash
- deep pockets
Cons
- might be too thin for some
- measures by thread count instead of weight
Eddie Bauer
Kids of all ages will adore the ice-skating penguins and dog patterns on these sheets from luxury outdoor brand Eddie Bauer. Other designs include skiing, snowboarding, snowflakes and schools of fish—and yes, these cartoons are going to give your little one all the warm fuzzies of winter. In terms of materials, however, the set has gone through an eight-level brushing standard that ensures durability and softness. The cotton yarns are woven, then brushed three times on the face and once on the back, and the fabric is then colored/printed and finished with three additional brush treatments on the face and one on the back. All of this works to ensure that it’s as comfortable and cozy as it is well-made. Plus, the sheets are preshrunk to prevent pilling and the fitted sheet has a fully elasticized band to prevent slipping.
One happy customer says, “Perfect feel for comfort without being too hot under the covers (or not warm enough when it gets chilly at night). They didn't shrink when we washed them either. I have a mattress topper with a 4-inch foam pad, so these worked well for the deep corners. This is exactly what I wanted for flannel sheets. Plus, the penguin design was pretty cool.” Another person also adds, “These were for my twin nephews, and are so cute and warm. The boys are enchanted with them, making up stories about the penguins skiing and swimming and all. Nice enough for twin 9-year-olds and warm enough for winter in Chicago.”
Fast Facts
- Sizes: twin, full, queen, king
- Material: 100 percent cotton
- Weight: N/A (150 thread count)
What To Look For When Buying Flannel Sheets
First, it’s important to note that flannel is a loosely knit fabric that can be made of wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers. According to experts at Saatva, “Flannel sheets can be made from cotton, synthetic fibers or a blend of the two—and it gets its fuzzy feel through a process called napping, which creates insulating air pockets.” With that in mind, there are a few factors you’ll want to keep in your back pocket when you’re shopping:
- Material: “Cotton is the most common flannel sheet material and is soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking,” Saatva’s team explains. “Flannel sheets made from polyester, meanwhile, are wrinkle- and stain-resistant—but they won’t be as breathable. Cotton/polyester blends offer a nice mix between cotton and polyester flannel sheets.” Finally, they add, “Wool flannel sheets, on the other hand, are warm and soft—but they’re harder to find.”
- Weight: Unlike percale or sateen cotton sheets, which are measured by thread count, flannel sheets are measured by weight in ounces and GSM (grams per square meter). That said, you want to make sure you’re choosing a set that has a minimum of 5 ounces or 170 GSM. While heavier flannels tend to be warmer and more substantial, lighter flannels (4 ounces or less) are better for more mild climates (and hot sleepers).
- Feel: “Flannel is known for its soft and fuzzy feel. This feeling is a result of a process called napping, which involves brushing the fabric after it’s woven. Flannel can be napped on one side or both sides,” the experts explain. “Double-napped flannel, which is brushed on both sides, is incredibly soft and considered the highest quality flannel.”
- Breathability: “Flannel sheets are quite warm, but you can ensure breathability by choosing ones made from long-staple cotton fibers. These allow for more airflow.” They also add, “The type of material you choose can determine breathability too. Cotton and wool are both breathable, while polyester and other synthetic fibers aren’t.”
- Pilling Resistance: Pilling can be a common issue with flannel sheets (see below for care instructions on how to reduce this). Still, as an extra precaution, you want to look for ones that have been pre-shrunk and treated to minimize pilling.
- Fit: Finally, make sure the sheets are the right size for your mattress. Most flannel sets come with fitted sheets that have elasticized corners, but you also want to keep an eye out for ones with deeper pockets (16 to 18 inches) to prevent from popping off the corners.
How Can You Tell If Flannel Sheets Are Good Quality?
As mentioned above, “High-quality flannel will be fuzzy, soft to the touch, and have some heft to it.” In addition to that, however, “It should also be able to keep you warm while maintaining breathability.” Generally speaking, a 100 percent cotton flannel with a heavier weight (at least 5 ounces or 170 GSM) will offer the most warmth with breathability. It’s also worth mentioning that flannel sheets should not be transparent—which is a good benchmark for quality—since the best ones are thicker with an inherently dense weave.
Which Flannel Sheets Are the Warmest?
Again, heavier flannels with a higher fabric weight are warmer. If this is your top priority, be sure to look for ones with a fabric weight of around 6 ounces or 180 GSM for maximum warmth. Otherwise, if you live in a milder climate or tend to sleep hot, lighter flannels—no less than 4 ounces or 140 GSM (which don’t sacrifice quality)—are the way to go.
How to Wash Flannel Sheets So They Don't Pill
As a general rule of thumb, use cold water—since hot water can cause the fabric to wear out more quickly —and wash on a gentle or delicate cycle with mild, liquid detergent to reduce friction and abrasion. Beyond that, however, there are two hacks that can also help to reduce pilling: Turn the sheets inside-out before washing and be sure not to overload your machine. Not only will this protect the outer surface from rubbing against other fabrics, but flannel needs space to move freely during the wash cycle—washing them separately can also help prevent excessive friction. The experts also add, “Don’t use fabric softener, as this will actually stiffen the fabric and reduce the softness of the sheets over time. Air dry if you can, or put the sheets in the dryer at a low temperature.”