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Youre (hopefully) spending eight hours a night in bed, and the last thing you need is to be tossing and turning thanks to a bad pair of PJs. Theres nothing wrong with a ratty T-shirt and too-big sweatpants. (No judgment here!) But I know that I just sleep better in a pajama set its the cherry on top of having the right sheets, pillows, and a duvet cover and I have a hunch you will, too.
To help you find the best pairs of pajamas for an optimal snooze, Ive slept my way through many pairs including an old-fashioned nightgown and the slinkiest silk slip. Youll read about some of those below plus ones recommended by a panel of opinionated sleepers (including writers, photographers, models, and our very own Strategist staffers) who told me about their favorites. To round out this list, I looked to our archives for recommendations weve gathered over the years. Here, youll find pajamas of all kinds, from author Ottessa Moshfeghs set to a pair that has Oprahs stamp of approval. And if youre looking for more sleepwear, the Strategist has guides to the best silk pajamas and loungewear, too.
Update on November 29, : Lots of our favorite pajamas are on sale for Black Friday, so weve updated prices accordingly. Of note: Our overall best pajamas from Eberjey are on sale, as is a handsome and highly giftable PJ set from J. Crew and a breathable bamboo set from Cozy Earth.
What
were
looking
for
Size range
I looked for pajamas that come in as inclusive of a size selection as possible.
Material
Think about the way you want to feel in bed warm and cozy? Cool and crisp? and let that inform the material of the pajamas you choose. Sweaty sleepers should look for lightweight materials like cotton, linen, and bamboo. Cold sleepers will want heavier materials like flannel, merino, or wool. One of the most popular pajama fabrics today is soft modal (made of wood pulp), and Tencel is a close (but more durable) cousin. Polyester often comes with the cheapest price tag, and those with opulent taste might consider luxurious, temperature-regulating silk.
Design
As our resident sleepwear writer, I am now obsessive about things like trimming, piping, and pleating these details can all make a set of pajamas feel richer. I noted all of those standout details in this post.
Price
I judged the recommendations below based on three price points: under $100, under $150, and over $150, denoted as $, $$, and $$$, respectively.
Etam Milky Silk Chemise
From $63
now 30% off
From $63
Sizes: SXL | Material: Silk | Design details: Scoop neckline, adjustable straps, racerback | Price: $
Underwear writer Estelle Puleston introduced me to century-old corsetier Etam. Because of her recommendation, I bought the brands Pearly chemise (Puleston has the Milky from the lingerie label, which features front lace trimming in lieu of a racerback). Its wonderful to sleep in feeling barely there (its unlined) with the sheen on the silk making the slip seem more expensive than it actually is. For $89, its a good bargain on silk. Puleston has worn hers often enough that the chemise has gotten little gaps on the fabric. I havent had that problem in the year since it first arrived and I havent exactly been delicate about mine (I have fished it out of a dresser when it was caught in the corner of a drawer). Although my Pearly has since sold out (you can sign up to receive an when your size is back in stock), you can get the Milky for the same price.
From $63
at Etam Paris
Quince French Terry Modal Jumpsuit
$40
$40
Sizes: XSXL | Material: Modal and spandex | Design details: Drawstring waistband, side pockets, keyhole back cutout | Price: $
This jumpsuit falls somewhere between loungewear and pajamas, and Ive been wearing it more often for bed. Its a glorified onesie, really. Part of the reason I started sleeping in the jumpsuit is because it reminds me of my favorite (now slightly ratty) college sweatshirt: supersoft, worn-in, and doesnt pill in the wash. It doesnt feel smothering underneath the sheets, either without sleeves and with a low V-neck and keyhole in the back, the style is actually pretty airy. You can also layer around it Ill put a pullover over it or wrap up in a robe on chiller nights.
$40
at Quince
J.Crew End-on-End Cotton Boxer Shorts
$15
now 63% off
$15
Sizes: XXS3X | Material: Cotton | Design details: Side pockets and logo waistband | Price: $
As someone who frequently kicks their sheets off in frustration in the middle of the night, these boxers are about as next-to-nothing as it gets. These can get slightly wrinkled granted, I move around a lot while asleep but I dont mind it all that much. The crinkles give the cotton a cool texture, making me look undone in the best way. Im not the only fan: Former Strategist writer Chloe Anello wrote an ode to a (now-sold-out) version of them. Like mine, hers didnt have an opening in the front and featured pockets (unlike traditional boxers) she even took to wearing hers out of bed, as theyre actually chic, not like a bad Risky Business costume. Since the shorts swung out from the hips, they allowed for more airflow to keep her legs cooler, she adds.
$15
at J.Crew
Cosabella Bella Relaxed Long Sleeve Top and Pant Pajama Set
From $83
now 45% off
From $83
Sizes: XS3X | Material: Pima cotton, modal | Design details: Button front, notched collar, satiny trim piping, patch pocket | Price: $$
Anello says theres no better word than buttery to describe the Cosabellas Bellas, which are made from a combination of smooth pima cotton and modal. Even though theyre long-sleeved, Anello says she doesnt overheat while wearing them. Writer Laura Lippman agrees she discovered the Bellas during a trip to Miami in May, and despite the excruciatingly hot temperatures, she found they kept her comfortable. And as someone who would live in pajamas if she could, Lippman says these are the best for making her seem fairly put together for someone walking around the house in pajamas at 3 p.m., as she is wont to do.
From $83
at Amazon$107
at Cosabella
Magic Linen Linen Pajama Set
$75
now 15% off
$75
Sizes: XSXL | Material: European-flax linen | Design details: Stonewashed, crew-neck collar, tie-waist | Price: $
Strategist writer Katherine Gillespie never saw herself as a linen-pajama person, but she eventually came around to this set from Magic Linen partly thanks to the fact that the pair doesnt particularly look like pajamas, especially in this linen-obsessed, loose clothes era, she says. The comfortable looseness can be attributed to the high-quality linen (made from top-tier European flax) that drapes in a supremely flattering way. In the winter, Gillespie considers them a savior, especially with the hit-or-miss heating in her prewar apartment.
$75
at Magic Linen
Lunya Washable Silk Tee Set
now 25% off
From $149
Sizes: XS2X | Material: Silk | Design details: No-twist waistband, chest pocket | Price: $$$
Its rare to find silk pajamas that feel this luxurious at this price and as the writer behind our guide to the best silk pajamas, I should know. And as a sweaty sleeper, I loved that Lunyas silk helped with temperature regulation; I wasnt waking up with beads of sweat on my forehead, as I do with heavier pajamas. The top is very oversize, but I found it helped the set feel fresh to sleep in with the shorts cut high enough on the thigh to give my legs a lot of air. Yoga instructor Kate Posch even compares the set to wearing nothing. The set has been on our radar ever since Reid tested it for her investigation into washable-silk sleepwear; it not only survived the spin cycle but came out looking impressively smooth and unwrinkled. She declared then, If I could replace all of my pajamas with these, I would. I would too in the world of silk sleepwear, where you have to spend well into the hundreds to get a great set, these are a steal at under $200.
From $149
at Nordstrom$139
at Lunya
Lake Pima Shorts Set
$71
now 25% off
$71
For more information, please visit Pajamas For Women Wholesale.
Sizes: XXSXXL | Material: Cotton | Design details: Scoop-neck with matching trim, slight cutaway on hem of shorts | Price: $
Strategist writer Dominique Pariso another self-professed sweaty sleeper suggested this set from Lake as a more affordable alternative to Cozy Earths. (Corsillo is another on-the-record fan of Lakes pajamas.) She found that the lightweight pima cotton was not only so, so soft but kept her cool through the night. Pariso confirms that, per the washing instructions, the set shrinks slightly the first time you put it through a washer (and you should definitely air-dry it). It was fine and to be expected for Pima cotton, she assures, but if you prefer a very loose fit or are between sizes, you may want to size up.
$71
at Lake Pajamas
Larken CloudLuxe Classic Pajama Set
$98
$98
Sizes: XSXXL | Material: Micro-modal, spandex | Design details: Button-front, notch collar, contrast piping | Price: $
While pregnant with her second child, Strategist writer Lauren Ro got a chance to test out a pair of pajamas from Larken (the maker of her favorite nursing bra). Although she didnt try them out until after the baby was born, she still wears them nearly a year later and likes them even more than the Eberjey Giseles that top this list. Ro says she always felt like she was swimming in the Eberjeys, and the ones from Larken have a closer-to-the-body silhouette that she prefers while still having enough drape to feel comfortable in, she adds. These are the only pajamas I want to wear now, and I recommend them to everyone, whether theyre expecting or not, Ro says. Still, they are designed with pregnancy-friendly features, including a no-digging waistband for growing bumps and a button-front for pumping.
$98
at Maisonette$69
at LarkenActually good deals, smart shopping advice, and exclusive discounts.
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Its no secret that comfortable pajamas are key to a good nights sleep. And the coziness of any PJ set comes down to what its made of. But your personal best fabric for pajamas might differ for someone with a different sleep style and texture preference.
Read on for our top choices when it comes to what fabric is best for pajamas (and the pros and cons of each).
Cotton
Cotton is the worlds most popular natural fiber. Since 5,000 BC, farmers around the world have harvested the fluffy fibers surrounding cotton seeds to be spun into that familiar comforting fabric.
More of your wardrobe than you might think is derived from cotton (from anything denim to jersey to corduroy). Types of cotton popular for PJs include:
This tightly-woven, brushed cotton fabric is used for thicker, warmer pajamas.
This plain-weave cotton is crisp and durable, but still soft to the touch.
Loosely woven, muslin is extremely light and breathable (picture the texture of a quilts backing).
Most pajamas on todays market are derived from some type of cotton, and for good reason. Cotton is the best fabric for sleepwearand if not the best, at least a top 3 contender.
Read more: What to Wear to Bed for a Better Snooze
Benefits of Cotton
There are types of cotton to fit every bill and time of year, and all cotton-derived clothing shares certain perks. Cotton is:
Since its plant-based and doesnt include synthetic fibers, cotton itself is organic.
Cotton doesnt stretch much, and extra-long cotton in particular is built to last.
Lighter cotton-based fabrics (like jersey and muslin) are designed to breathe and absorb sweat while repelling odor.
Fabrics containing
at least 60% cotton
are less likely to be itchy, irritating, stiff or clingy.
You can count on cotton for a cozy nights sleep (and many more to come).
Cottons Drawbacks
While it remains a classic, cotton has its cons, including:
While strides have been made, cotton is still less than eco-friendly, mostly because of the sheer amount of water required to produce it. For example,
97% of the Indus Rivers water
is used for crops like cotton.
Cotton does shrink in the wash and wrinkles easily. Be sure to size up and choose a cotton fabric with longer fibers to help lock in color and repel lint.
Cotton can absorb a significant amount of moisture and does not wick it away from the body. So if you sweat during the night, the fabric will stay wet, which can feel cold and uncomfortable.
Choosing durable, responsibly-farmed cotton will help keep your sleep peaceful and your PJs in good shape.
Who Should Choose Cotton?
If you have sensitive skin, dont sweat profusely or are looking for pajamas to suit a specific climate (i.e. flannel for cold, muslin for heat), cotton PJs are the way to go.
Moisture-Wicking Fabric
Moisture-wicking is an all-encompassing term for a variety of natural and synthetic fabric types. This includes fabrics you might choose to wear for a sweaty workout (i.e. spandex, polyester, nylon) as well as textiles that naturally absorb moisture (i.e. wool, bamboo).
Wool, for instance, retains about 16% of water when its wet (compared to just 8.5% for cotton), meaning it wont feel soaked and is less likely to chafe on skin.
Several pajama fabrics are designed to wick moisture, from particularly absorbent merino wool to polyester and spandex blends.
Benefits of Moisture-Wicking Fabric
Moisture-wicking fabrics are primarily famous for their absorbency, but offer a variety of benefits, including:
One study found that
participants wearing a moisture-wicking polyester-based shirt
in a hot room (as opposed to a 100%-cotton shirt) showed significantly lower body temperature. This was proof of the moisture-wicking fabrics ability to evaporate a higher percentage of sweat and
keep wearers cooler
.
Most moisture-wicking fabrics are knit as opposed to woven, meaning theyre light and stretchy (but will bounce back).
Most moisture-wicking fabrics are easy to clean and even repel dirt and odor.
Moisture-wicking fabrics are the definition of a breezetheyll keep you cool with minimal care required.
Moisture Wicking Fabrics Drawbacks
Moisture-wicking fabric comes with its cons, including:
Many wearers find wool itchy. Some even develop
rashes and hives
if allergic to moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester.
Some of the most effective moisture-wicking fabrics, tend to be more expensive than their synthetic counterparts.
Since moisture-wicking is an umbrella term, additional drawbacks of each fabric may vary.
Who Should Choose Moisture-Wicking Fabric?
Moisture-wicking fabric is ideal for sweaty sleepers who dont want to sacrifice feeling cozy and warm.
Read more: The Best Pajamas for Night Sweats
Did you know: Softies PJs are made of buttery-soft moisture-wicking fabric that regulates your body temperature without irritating your skin?
Silk
Produced by silkworms as nesting material, silk is notoriously light, soft and luxurious.
Benefits of Silk
Theres no greater simple pleasure than a soft silk PJ set. Benefits of silk include:
Silk is incredibly lightweight and soft while still remaining strong, durable, and flexible.
Silk is both insulated and breathable, meaning it will absorb sweat without leaving you too cold during the night. Its often used in surgical masks, since its more breathable than cotton, repels water, and is naturally antimicrobial.
Silk is a
renewable, biodegradable resource
that calls for less use of water and chemicals than other fabrics.
Silk is associated with pajamas for good reason: its light yet insulated quality means it can be worn year-round.
Silks Drawbacks
Despite the luxury it evokes, silk is not without its drawbacks, including:
While its absorbent, silk does hang onto stains, especially from water.
Silk is dry-clean-only, wrinkles and wears when rubbed against sheets, and can fade from UV and heat exposure.
Silk is one of the more expensive fabrics due to the labor-intensive production processes, making silk pajamas a luxury item that may not be affordable for everyone.
Ultimately, silk is a commitment, but one that might be worth it for a lavish nights sleep.
Who Should Choose Silk?
Choose silk if youre willing to invest in taking care of a fabric thats feather-light, breathable and remarkably soft on skin.
Bamboo
Fabrics like bamboo viscose and bamboo rayon are woven from the wood pulp of a bamboo plant. Theyre just as soft as cotton, but often lighter and stretchierideal for PJs and bed sheets.
Benefits of Bamboo
Bamboo fabric has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, thanks to benefits like:
Bamboo falls under the moisture-wicking umbrella. Its lightweight yet strong, mirroring the hollow nature of the plant.
Soft and stretchy to the touch, bamboo fends off static electricity. Its also hypoallergenic and antimicrobial.
Bamboo holds color well without fading, even after machine washing.
Bamboo is the best of both worlds: a natural, hypoallergenic fabric with the bright colors and wicking capabilities of a synthetic one.
Bamboos Drawbacks
Bamboo might seem like a win-win, but there are drawbacks to consider, like:
Bamboo is plant-based and sustainable in theory. The quick-growing, renewable grass even
improves soil quality and kills weeds
. However, the process of turning bamboo into fabric is chemically intensive and requires large amounts of water and energy.
Bamboo has a tendency to wrinkle and pill over time and may need to be frequently ironed.
When possible, opt for more sustainable and durable bamboo blends (i.e. bamboo linen).
Who Should Choose Bamboo?
Bamboo fabric suits those seeking a lightweight, skin-friendly fabric that wont stretch out or fade, but who dont mind ironing.
Read more: Discover the 6 Best Fabrics for Sensitive Skin
Choose Softies PJs for the Best Nights Sleep
From the breathability of cotton to the gentle caress of silk, each fabric offers its unique blend of comfort and luxury to ensure your nights are as restful as they should be. But, when it comes to blending comfort, style, and sustainability, Softies stands out with its sleepwear collection.
Softies PJs combine advanced moisture-wicking technology with eco-friendly fabrics, designed to provide unparalleled comfort all night long.
Shop at Softies and feel the difference that premium materials and thoughtful design can make to your nights.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Sports Bra Manufacturer.