As a seasoned writer specializing in home goods and a self-proclaimed bedding connoisseur, I have a keen eye for good textiles. I’ve always been drawn to cool-touch satin sheets and have gone through a few sets in the past. However, while satin feels cool, synthetic fabrics tend to trap heat, making me sweat through the night. Plus, a shiny finish is sometimes too slick, sometimes causing me and my pillows to slip right off. I’d tried Nestwell’s Sateen 625-Thread-Count Sheet Set in Moonbeam (a soft neutral taupe) to see if I liked them. Made of Egyptian cotton with a complex satin-style weave (four-over-one-under, as opposed to the traditional square one-over-one-under weave), sateen is a natural and more breathable alternative. These sheets are woven from extra-long and fine cotton fibers, making for a softer, more durable fabric. Like most sets, it comes with a fitted sheet, a top sheet, and two pillowcases. Out of the box, the material appeared to be of good quality. The 625-thread count was readily apparent. The fabric is sturdy and thick, but not too thick, and has a silky-smooth texture with a subtle sheen. Though the surface is lustrous, it was slightly coarse at first. Like many high-end sheets made of 100 percent cotton, this set is supposed to get softer over time, like your most beloved lived-in t-shirt. Some people insist on washing new bedding before sleeping in it, but I decided to give these sheets a go for a couple of nights before tossing them in the laundry. I haven’t used a top sheet for probably 15 years (I unusually repurpose them as outdoor blankets), so all I needed was to slip the pillowcases on and secure the fitted sheet. I was impressed with the fitted sheet’s innovative, user-friendly design. For one, it has tags indicating which sides go on the top and bottom of the mattress. These tags are immensely helpful because not-quite-square king bedding can trick the eye, and the last thing I want to do is redo it. The fitted sheet is 18 inches deep, with a thick elastic band sewn around the entire perimeter. It has a repeating print of the words “Stays In Place,” a reminds me of the waistband of men’s boxer briefs. Regardless, Nestwell’s “True Grip Technology” does what it claims. With the perfect amount of slack and plenty of give, it was easy to stretch the fitted sheet around all sides of my mattress—and it stayed in place. My husband and I were both comfortable catching our z’s on these sheets. Since we sleep with an insulating down comforter, breathable moisture-wicking fabrics are crucial for keeping us cool. Sure enough, these sateen sheets encouraged airflow and wicked away sweat while we dozed. They’re not too cooling, so I imagine they’ll be an excellent year-round bedding choice. After three days of use, I washed the sheets. As the care directions recommended, I ran them on a warm/cold cycle and then tumble-dried them at a low heat setting. The Nestwell Sateen Sheets were notably wrinkly coming out of the dryer, but this was to be expected; they’re made of 100% cotton. (If you take bedding out of the dryer when it’s not fully dry and make your bed right away, it eliminates most wrinkles.) I also noticed a few loose strings on the sheets and pillowcases after washing them. However, this was minor and probably unnoticeable to the untrained eye. The fabric was indeed a little softer after going through the wash and slightly more comfortable sleeping. Although it takes time and several washes with ongoing everyday use to achieve optimal softness and look forward to an increasingly comfy feel. I wish I had the option to buy the sheets and pillowcases individually. I know many like me prefer to forgo a top sheet. However, the price for the set is reasonable compared to other high-end sheets. In the end, I’m satisfied with the Nestwell Egyptian Cotton Sateen Sheet Set and would recommend it to a friend.
What do the sheets look like in person?
The sateen fabric looks durable, luxurious, and high-end. It has a subtle, lustrous sheen and a somewhat drapey appearance that catches the light nicely, but it’s not overly shiny.
What do the sheets feel like?
Out of the packaging, these sheets are smooth and somewhat cool to the touch. They felt slightly coarse before washing and are supposed to get softer and comfier over time.
How do they hold up in the wash?
After washing and drying, I noticed a few loose threads, but other than that, the Nestwell Egyptian Cotton Sateen Sheets appeared to be in good shape and were softer after washing.
Is the material sustainable?
These sateen sheets boast an OEKO-TEX certification, meaning they’re made with certified-green dyes and are free from harmful chemicals and toxins. In short, the fabric is safe for you and the environment.
Are these sheets worth the money?
This sheet set is worth buying. While it’s not the most budget-friendly option on the market, the price is reasonable compared to other sateen sets of similar quality.
Nestwell Egyptian Cotton 625-Thread-Count Sateen Sheet Set vs. Pinzon 400-Thread-Count Egyptian Cotton Sateen Pleated Hem Sheet Set
Ultra-smooth and aesthetically pleasing, Nestwell Egyptian Cotton Sateen Sheets are made to last. Considering the high thread count, increasingly soft feel, thoughtful fitted sheet design, and upscale appearance, they’re worth buying.
