Are light or dark bed sheets best for sleep? A sleep editor investigates

As the resident Sleep Editor here at Homes & Gardens, I'm often asked: 'Are light or dark bed sheets best for sleep?' I rarely give a straight answer to this question, as it depends on a number of variables, including your bedroom color scheme and your propensity for spills and stains.

Light-colored sheets are a classic for a reason: fresh and clean, light colors bring a brightness into the bedroom, though they tend to show dirt and dust. Dark-colored sheets cover a multitude of messes and make more of a statement in the bedroom, but they tend to overwhelm smaller spaces.

I asked an expert panel of interior designers and sleep scientists to weigh up the pros and cons of light and dark bed sheets, considering everything from color psychology to practical maintenance. I've shopped at all the best places to buy bedding and combed through our back catalog of reviews to bring you the best bed sheets in every conceivable color.

Are light or dark bed sheets best?

According to Anna Jones, interior expert at the bedding brand, Furn, 'Colors can have a big impact on your mood and well-being, often without you even realizing. Light and dark colors affect individuals differently. Neither light nor dark shades are a more stylish choice for a bedroom, but both can play an important role in setting the mood of your space. That's why it's important to understand how different colors can influence your mood so you can choose what's right for you.'

Mulberry Park Silks' Brand Manager Kendra Cosenza agrees, 'Color psychology plays a significant role in setting the tone for relaxation and sleep quality. Certain bed sheet colors can improve sleep by creating a calm atmosphere. Light-colored bedding − soft shades of white, ivory, and pastels − tends to evoke feelings of tranquility, cleanliness, and freshness. These colors can create a spa-like atmosphere, making your bedroom feel open and airy, which is conducive to better rest.'

'Dark colors, on the other hand, such as deep navy, charcoal, or black, can feel cozy and grounding,' Kendra continues. 'They add warmth and depth to a room, which some people find comforting, especially in colder weather. With that said, very bold or intense colors, such as bright red, might be too stimulating for a sleep environment. In fact, red is one of the worst bed sheet colors to avoid.'

'Ultimately,' Kendra concludes, 'the best color for sleep is the one that makes you feel most relaxed and at ease.'

I asked Parima Ijaz, the brains behind the luxury bedding brand, Pure Parima, whether light or dark bed sheets are more practical. 'In terms of washing, light sheets, especially white or pale shades, tend to show wear and tear more easily,' says Parima. Even the best white bed sheets show spills and stains. 'However, light-colored sheets are a bit more flexible since they can be bleached or treated to keep them looking fresh, especially since lighter sheets tend to show stains much more visibly.'

'Darker sheets are often easier to maintain in terms of hiding fading or minor staining,' says Parima. 'They don’t show wrinkles or dirt as easily, which makes for low-maintenance sheet sets. That being said, bleach should not be used on dark sheets as this can lead to discoloration and permanent damage to your linens. For ease of care, light and dark sheets are evenly matched: dark sheets hide stains better due to their dark color, however light sheets can take more in the wash with treatments that dark sheets should avoid.'

I asked Parima how to choose between light and dark sheets for your bedroom. She says it's largely a matter of preference: 'Light sheets often feel more airy and fresh, contributing to a light, bright, and clean aesthetic. They can also make the room feel bigger which can be a great way to style small spaces. Commonly used colors include whites, beiges, and pastels: their versatility makes it easy to pair light-colored sheets with almost any decor style.'

On the other hand, Parima notes that 'Dark sheets are generally seen as more luxurious and sophisticated. Due to the deep, rich nature of these colors, they can give your bedroom a dramatic, rich, or moody feel, which works well for anyone who likes an intimate, cozy, or elegant vibe. Dark tones may better complement modern or industrial-style spaces and add more depth to the room. Consider using colors like deep navy, black, or dark browns for an elegant feel that can be perfect for year-round use.'

FAQs

Are dark sheets hotter than light sheets?

Yes, marginally, because dark colors are known to absorb and retain heat more than light colors. With that said, which bed sheet type you choose will have more of an impact on your thermoregulation than whether you opt for light or dark sheets. If you're keen to keep cool, I suggest you opt for breathable, natural fibers, including cotton percale, linen, and bamboo.

Will light or dark sheets make a bedroom look bigger?

We've written an entire article answering the question, 'what color bedding makes a bedroom look bigger?' Light sheets are better than dark sheets, but warm neutrals win out: think beige, blush, and ecru.

Light sheets look fresh and clean, while dark sheets create a moody, inviting atmosphere for your boudoir. Once you've settled on a color, it's time to choose the size and material of your sheet set, and set your budget. Follow my non-negotiable bed sheet buying rules and you won't go far wrong.