Tencel vs. Cotton Sheets: Which is Better for Hot Summer Nights?

When Summer Heat Meets Your Sleep Routine

You toss. You turn. The AC hums. And yet—you’re still sweating.
If you’ve ever struggled to get a good night’s sleep during a summer heatwave, your bed sheets might be part of the problem (or the solution).

Two top contenders for breathable bedding are Tencel and Cotton. But which one’s the real MVP for hot nights? Let’s dive into the thread count, texture, sustainability, and breathability to help you find the best fit.

What Is Tencel?

Sustainable, Silky, and Smooth

Tencel is a brand name for Lyocell, a fiber made from wood pulp—usually eucalyptus, beech, or spruce trees. The production process uses less water and fewer chemicals than other materials, making it a go-to for eco-conscious consumers.

What makes Tencel unique?

• It’s incredibly moisture-wicking
  
  

• Feels cool and silky to the touch
  
  

• Naturally resistant to bacteria
  
  

So, if you’re a hot sleeper looking for something ultra-smooth, Tencel might be calling your name.

What About Cotton?

The Classic Bedding Staple

Cotton is the OG of breathable fabrics, and for good reason. It’s:

• Durable
  
  

• Naturally soft
  
  

• Affordable in a wide range of styles
  
  

But not all cotton is created equal. At Globaltex Fine Linens, we specialize in Turkish cotton, known for its long fibers, plush texture, and superior breathability.

Cotton sheets come in multiple weaves like percale (light and crisp) or sateen (smooth and slightly warmer), giving you flexibility based on climate and sleep preference.

Breathability: The Hot Night Dealbreaker

Which One Keeps You Cooler?

If you’re shopping with summer in mind, breathability should top your list.

So who wins? It depends on your texture preference.
Tencel feels cooler to the touch and slightly more hydrating, but high-quality percale cotton (like what we produce at Globaltex) offers crisp airflow that’s perfect for dry, hot climates.

Durability and Longevity

Which Fabric Lasts Longer?

Cotton generally holds up better over time, especially after hundreds of washes. Tencel is soft but can wear thin faster if not laundered properly.

If you’re outfitting a hotel, Airbnb, or rental property, cotton offers better long-term value and holds its shape without pilling.

Sustainability Matters

Eco-Friendly Showdown

Both Tencel and organic cotton are more sustainable than synthetic options like polyester. However:

• Tencel is produced in a closed-loop system, recycling up to 99% of water and solvents
  
  

• Turkish cotton is often grown with less pesticide use, and Globaltex linens are OEKO-TEX® certified for safety
  
  

So really, both are great—just make sure your supplier is transparent and certified.

Texture, Touch & Aesthetic

What Will Your Guests Love?

Tencel sheets look and feel luxurious—like a cool silk finish. Great for spa environments, high-end resorts, or minimalist bedrooms.

Cotton offers more texture variety: crisp for that hotel-like freshness, or smooth for a luxe finish. If you want more styling flexibility, cotton wins.

So... Which Is Better for Summer?

Final Verdict: It Comes Down to Feel

• Choose Tencel if: You love buttery-smooth sheets, sleep hot, and value sustainability.
  
  

• Choose Cotton if: You want something breathable, durable, and perfect for long-term use in hot weather.
  
  

And if you ask us? Our Turkish cotton percale sheets are a summer favorite—light, crisp, and effortlessly cool even on muggy July nights.

Explore Breathable Luxury at Globaltex

Still can’t decide? You don’t have to. At Globaltex Fine Linens, we offer both Tencel and premium cotton collections so you can test the feel, comfort, and breathability that fits your sleep and style best.

☀️ Sleep cooler. Wake fresher. Shop smarter.