The beauty of re-approaching sleep hygiene habits is that there are many variables we can control to optimize the integrity and length of Zzzs. From avoiding caffeine and powering off electronic devices to lowering the thermostat and popping melatonin, many tried-and-true bedtime rituals can easily be incorporated into anyone’s pre-existing routine.

But many sleepers overlook one of the most important and controllable elements of a good night’s rest: bedding.

Anthony Gianacakos, NYC-based interior designer and owner of anthony george home, has worked on his fair share of bedroom projects where clients often overlook or sacrifice the quality of sheets, duvet covers and comforters for the sake of style.

“I, of course, want to be mindful of any sleep space and make everything look perfect for the client, but the comfort of bedding, and not just the mattress underneath it, is just as important as its color or design,” he says.

We chatted with Gianacakos, who launched his own line of woven and print fabrics (with bedding potentially on the horizon), for his take on the best and worst materials for sleep.

The Best Materials for Bedding

There are a handful of qualities to look for while shopping for superior bedding, though the best options will likely tout a combination of softness, breathability and moisture-wicking properties. They’re cool to the touch, cushion the body and regulate temperature throughout the night to prevent overheating.

That said, sheets, comforters and duvet covers are extremely personal decisions. One person’s sweet dream may be another person’s nightmare. Purchase a few varieties and test which one plays a leading role in your best sleep ever.

Cotton

Classic cotton usually gets the job done with its unparalleled softness and excellent breathability, but not all cotton is created equal. Cotton can be a silky sateen, a stiff organic, a stretchy jersey or a cool percale. It can even be derived from regions like Egypt and Turkey that specialize in cozy textiles.

“The options are seemingly endless, so it’s important to find an iteration that works best for you and your needs,” reminds Gianacakos, who also recommends investing in a pre-washed option so that it arrives soft and free from leftover dyes.

It’s also important to note that a higher thread count doesn’t always indicate a better sheet. In fact, due to the tightly woven, more compact fibers, they’re more prone to pilling after consistent use and washes. Keep this in mind if you feel tempted to splurge on an expensive, high-thread count product that may just be a clever marketing ploy.

Product recommendation: Bedgear Hyper-Cotton Sheet Set

A Mattress Firm bestseller, this cooling and durable sheet set is proof that a higher thread count doesn’t always imply a softer sheet. Instead, Bedgear uses advanced knitting technology with fewer fibers to guarantee not only circulation and temperature regulation but also the ability to stay in place with a patented Powerband that wraps around pillows and mattresses.

Linen

The durable yet flowy fabric isn’t reserved for summer soirees and chic bathing suit cover-ups. It also makes for a great year-round bedding option.

“Linen is very breathable and actually gets softer over time, making it a wonderful long-term investment if sheet sets seem too pricey,” says Gianacakos. “It’s also significantly stronger than cotton and can stand up to normal wear and tear.”

Additionally, the material is naturally hypoallergenic, odor-resistant and thermo-regulating, making it an ideal choice, no matter the season.

Product recommendation: Dr. Weil Blended Linen Sheet Set

This sheet set was built to last with an eco-friendly combo of durable flax linen and soft, cozy cotton. It’s also available in four neutral colors to match any bedroom decor.

Bamboo

Bamboo excels most at moisture-wicking, which prevents body oils and even sweat from sticking to sheets. This also creates better air circulation and the coveted cooling effect that is a necessity during hot and humid summer evenings.

“Bamboo also happens to be one of the most sustainable options on the market,” reveals Gianacakos, who notes that, like cotton, bamboo can be constructed in different types such as sateen and sandwashed to yield different looks and feels.

Product recommendation: Tulo Bamboo Plush Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress

Take bamboo one step further and consider a bamboo-lined mattress so that its benefits start from the source. A pressure-relieving green tea-infused layer of memory foam is simply icing on the cake.

The Worst Materials for Bedding

While some sheet sets may be soft and velvety to the touch, they don’t bode well for long-term use and should be avoided by those who want to maximize their overall sleep quality. Here are a few examples:

Silk

Stick to silk robes to achieve peak yet temporary comfort. While the luxurious fabric may feel smooth and cool, prolonged use in sheet form creates a warmer environment that will have your body beaded in sweat. Instead, opt for sateen cotton that can still offer similar attributes but without the inevitable discomfort after prolonged exposure.

“Silk is a classic and a common request for beds, but there are so many alternatives that have the same effect and even feel without the use of the unforgiving fiber,” says Gianacakos. “Another perk is that these alternatives are usually less expensive, so you’ll have more of a budget for statement-making bedroom pieces such as a headboard, dresser or mirror.”

Faux Fur

As a duvet or comforter topper during winter months, faux fur is A-OK to add an extra layer of warmth. But snuggling in faux fur and faux fur alone will induce a sweating episode that will make you almost wish you were sleeping in the snow.

“When it comes to faux fur, stick to a throw as an accent piece or something to use during those extra chilly nights,” suggests Gianacakos.

There are also many duvet covers that feature one side of faux fur or a fluffy material while the underside is cotton. This gives sleepers the best of both worlds, as their entire body won’t be touching the notoriously balmy faux animal hide.

Polyester

The fashion industry often pokes fun at polyester’s subpar clothing characteristics for the same reasons as sleep textile experts: It’s not breathable, it’s lower quality and it traps moisture and heat. Even a polyester blend with cotton won’t salvage its potential.

“The only exception seems to be microfiber, which is a polyester and nylon blend that is lightweight and ventilating,” says Gianacakos. “But it’s important to note that this is a man-made, synthetic fiber that may not be ideal for those with skin sensitivities.”

Instead, opt for a cotton-based jersey, which has softness and versatility like microfibers. It will also last longer so that you get more bang for your buck.

Find What’s Right for You

As with all sleep routines, individual preferences will ultimately dictate what works or doesn’t work at bedtime. But if you find yourself tossing, turning or even sweating in the middle of the night, it may just be because of your choice of bedding, which can easily be replaced with something more comfortable. Keep cotton, linen and bamboo in mind during your next trip to the store, and you should be well on your way from counting sheep to enjoying sweet dreams.