Sheet listings use a lot of fabric words: Egyptian cotton, Pima, long staple, bamboo, thread count. Some of them have rules behind them and some are sales language. This guide covers what the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) says about cotton labeling, so you can read a sheet listing with more confidence. It covers US rules only. We did not read UK or EU rules, and the FTC page we used does not cover thread count, so we say nothing about it here beyond that.

This guide is based on the public source listed below. We have not tested any sheets or store. For mattress sizes and sheet fit, see our mattress size chart and guide to bedding and mattress toppers.

What the FTC says about cotton claims

Source: FTC, "Calling It Cotton: Labeling and Advertising Cotton Products" (page dated July 2014). Last checked: 17 October 2026.

  • Fibre content must be listed. Covered products must name each fibre that makes up at least 5% of the weight, with percentages. Smaller amounts may be grouped as "other fibre".
  • "100% cotton" has a limit. It may be used only when the product is entirely cotton, apart from minor non-cotton trim.
  • Mixed cottons can be grouped. A product with several kinds of cotton can simply be labeled "All Cotton" or "100% Cotton".
  • Naming a type needs its share. If a label names a cotton type such as Pima or Egyptian, it must state that type's percentage of the weight and make clear that other cotton was also used. A label claiming only one type for a mixed-cotton product is not acceptable.
  • Names cannot overstate. A trademark or name implying a cotton type cannot suggest a fibre that is not present, or imply a blend is wholly one type.
  • Extra wording cannot mislead. Claims that are not required cannot hide, contradict or falsely imply what the fibres are.
  • Towels: loops and ground may be described separately, but a label that reflects only the pile or only the back is not acceptable.
  • Ads that mention fibre must list the fibres in order of predominance, presented together and clearly readable. Any fibre reference must not be false or misleading.

The page does not cover country of origin or the word "pure".

What to check on a sheet listing

  1. The fibre percentages. "100% cotton" should mean all cotton. For blends, look for the percentage of each fibre, such as cotton and bamboo viscose.
  2. Named cotton types. If a listing says Egyptian or long staple, check whether it says how much of the fabric that is.
  3. Sheet size and fit. Check the size against your mattress, and the pocket depth against a thick mattress or topper.
  4. Care instructions. Check the wash temperature and drying advice in the listing.
  5. Returns. Opened or washed bedding is often not returnable. Read the return policy and the trial terms before you order.
  6. Treat soft-feel and durability words as the seller's claim. The FTC page does not define words like luxury or silky.

What we could not confirm

  • Thread count rules (the FTC page does not address them), the term "pure", country-of-origin wording for bedding and UK or EU labeling rules.

Source: US FTC, Calling It Cotton.