Five inches longer than a twin size mattress, extra long twin beds are commonly seen in college and university dorm rooms. Many students and their parents have arrived at school with sheet sets for a standard twin bed only to be surprised that those new sheets will not fit. Finding quality twin XL sheet sets at the local department may be a fifty fifty proposition.

A sheet set made for a standard twin sheet set will not fit on an extra long twin bed. The extra five inches combined with increases in mattress thickness means it is more important than ever to find a sheet set that has the proper fit. Plush pillow top and Euro top mattresses are thicker than standard mattress. A set of fitted sheets with pockets that are too shallow simply will not fit right. This is particularly true when it comes to twin extra long beds. Poor quality twin XL sheets that do not fit well are likely to slip off while you sleep.

When shopping for twin XL sheet sets, it helps to know what to look for. We all work hard for our money and getting the most for our hard earned cash is an important consideration when we shop. Choosing to buy a bargain set of sheets set might seem like a great idea, but in the long run, cheap bed sheets may not be a bargain at all. Bargain bed sheets are often made with inferior materials and may not be well sewn. Fabrics of low quality can fade when laundered.

As for fabric choices, the selection has for twin XL sheet sets has never been bigger. From cotton and cotton blends to sateen, quality twin XL sheet sets can be found in a rainbow of stylish prints and decorator colors. Buying quality twin XL sheet sets will cost a little more but the extra money will be worth it in the long run. Higher quality fabrics will launder well and hold the shape of the sheet longer with less color fading and the stitching will be less likely to fail.

Twin XL sheet sets are also available in several sustainable fabric choices. Hemp and bamboo are two sustainable fiber sources that are made into very durable, soft and luxurious fabrics. Hemp and bamboo are grass fibers which can be cultivated without irrigation or chemical fertilizers and insecticides. In contrast, cotton plants can be very susceptible to insect infestations and plant diseases.

Bamboo is a very interesting fabric that is both luxurious and has a natural, long lasting antimicrobial property. This unique antimicrobial property can withstand everyday use and repeated trips to the laundry. Hemp has been used for thousands of years as a source for fabrics, paper, fuel and even food.

Quality twin XL sheet sets can represent a substantial investment. Like all fabrics, proper care of your twin XL sheets can help you get the most for your money. Consumers should always follow the manufacturers fabric care label which provides instructions on how to wash and dry your twin XL sheet set. Using the right detergent and water temperature will help to maintain the color. Avoid using chlorine bleach if the fabric care label recommends against it. Machine dry your sheets according to the care instructions.

An important accessory for any twin XL sheet set is a fitted mattress pad. A fitted twin XL or extra long twin mattress pad will protect the mattress and give you an extra layer of comfort.