Tips for Finding the Perfect Full Extra Long Sheets for Your Bed

Having the right size sheets is crucial for getting a comfortable night's sleep. For people with extra long mattresses, finding sheets that properly fit the mattress depth and length can be a challenge. Full XL mattresses require specific sheet sizes as regular full sheets are too short. Fitted sheets need to be exact size for the mattress to prevent bunching or ripping.

Non-standard mattress sizes may not have matching bed sheets available in stores. Custom-made sheets from boutiques or tailors are an option, or consider using a deep pocketed fitted sheet or sheet suspenders/straps to keep sheets in place. With some handy tips and the right information, you can find the perfect full extra long sheets for your bed.

Measure Your Mattress Length Precisely

The first step is accurately measuring the length and width of your mattress in inches. This ensures you get the right sheet size. Make sure to note the mattress depth as well if it is a thicker than standard mattress. Standard full mattress dimensions are 54" x 75", while full XL mattresses are 54" x 80. Even those extra 5 inches in length require specifically sized sheets.

Use a soft measuring tape and measure along the top of the mattress. For width, measure across the mattress. Having another person help can ensure you get precise mattress dimensions. Round up to the nearest inch when taking measurements. Record the length, width, and depth measurements to reference when shopping for sheets.

Account for Mattress Toppers or Padding

If you use a mattress topper or extra padding, make sure to factor that into the overall mattress height measurement. The total height is what fitted sheets need to stretch over. Add the topper depth to the mattress height itself when taking measurements to ensure sheets will fit properly.

Additionally, take into account borders or edges of the mattress that may extend past the main surface area. Include these extended edges when measuring mattress length and width.

Measure Carefully Around Corners

Use care when measuring around mattress corners. Wrap the tape measure around the corners to get an accurate side-to-side length and head-to-foot length measurement. Rounded or beveled edges can distort measurements if you only measure across the top surface.

Know the Right Sheet Dimensions

Once you have your precise mattress measurements, you can match those to sheet sizes. Full XL or full extra long sheets are designed to fit the 54" x 80" full XL mattress dimension. Other sheet sizes to look for include:

• Twin XL sheets - 38" x 80"
• Queen XL sheets - 60" x 80"
• King XL sheets - 76" x 80"
• Split King - Two 38" x 80" sheets
• California King sheets - 72" x 84"

Carefully compare your mattress measurements to sheet size dimensions when shopping. Allow for some shrinkage by looking for sheets at least 1-2 inches longer than the mattress length. Keep the mattress depth in mind as well and look for fitted sheet pocket depths that can accommodate thicker mattresses.

Understand Fitted Sheet Sizing

Pay close attention to fitted sheet sizing guides. Terms like "deep pocket" or "extra deep pocket" indicate sheets designed for thicker mattresses. Expandable fitted sheets have corner straps to adjust the sheet pockets to fit mattresses up to 18" thick.

Standard fitted sheets may state they fit up to a 14" or 15" thick mattress. Measure your mattress height to determine if you need deep pocket or extra deep pocket fitted sheets.

Measure Each Piece for Consistency

For non-standard sizes, separately measure and custom order each piece in the sheet set, including fitted and flat sheets, and pillowcases. Even if you order together, slight variations in dimensions can occur so each piece needs to be confirmed to fit your mattress.

Consider Material and Weave

Sheet fabrics affect the durability, softness, breathability, and maintenance of your sheets. Popular options include:

• Egyptian or Pima cotton - soft, durable, breathable
• Microfiber - affordable, soft, wrinkle-resistant
• Linen - natural, breathable, textured feel
• Bamboo - eco-friendly, moisture wicking, soft
• Polyester - affordable, durable, wrinkle-free
• Flannel - soft, warm, cozy
• Silk - luxurious, temperature regulating
• Rayon - soft, breathable, resists mildew

Think about weave types as well. Percale weave is crisp and breathable while sateen is silky smooth. Choose depending on your preference of softness versus a cool, crisp feel.

Thread count affects softness and durability. Look for around 300-500 thread count for balance. Don't just assume higher equals better quality.

Consider Durability

Look for durable yet soft materials like Pima cotton or bamboo sheets for everyday use. Save more delicate silk or high-thread count sheets for occasional use to extend their lifespan. Read reviews to help determine expected durability.

Compare Fabric Breathability

Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and bamboo stay cooler during sleep. Look for percale weaves rather than twill or sateen for better airflow. Polyester and microfiber tend to trap more heat.

Assess Ease of Care

Consider how easily you can wash and dry sheet materials. Cotton, microfiber, bamboo and polyester sheets are machine washable. Silk and linen may require hand washing or dry cleaning. Some materials like rayon are prone to mildew if air dried.

Buy Complete Sheet Sets

For convenience, buy a full XL sheet set which includes fitted and flat sheets, as well as pillowcases. This guarantees everything matches and fits together. Plus it saves time mixing and matching separate pieces.

Look for sheet sets that include deep pocket or expandable fitted sheets for thicker mattresses. For non-standard sizes, custom sheet sets from specialty stores or custom tailors may be needed. Expect to pay more for custom-made sheet sets.

Include Pillowcases in the Set

Make sure complete sheet sets include the correct size pillowcases as well. Standard pillowcases may be too small for the oversized pillows used on longer mattresses. King size pillowcases are a good option for extra long mattresses.

Buy Additional Fitted Sheets

Since fitted sheets take the most wear, purchase extra fitted sheets even if buying a complete set. Rotate through multiple fitted sheets to extend their lifespan and have backups ready when sheets are in the wash.

Read Reviews and Recommendations

Look at reviews and product ratings when comparing sheet brands and materials. See which sheets get the best ratings for comfort, durability, and performance on extra long mattresses. Recommendations from other full XL mattress owners can also point you towards suitable sheets.

Compare Prices Carefully

Don't assume specialty or custom-made sheets are always pricey. Compare costs across brands and retailers. Include shipping fees if ordering online. Set a budget and look for sales, coupons, or promo codes to save on sheet sets.

Know Return Policies

Understand return policies when ordering sheets online in case the size, fabric or quality don't meet expectations. Look for free shipping and returns to make exchanging sheets easy.

Plan to replace sheets every 2-3 years or when the fabric shows signs of thinning, pilling, or discoloration. Washing in cold water and air or line drying helps sheets last longer. Using a fabric shaver can remove pills and lint to refresh sheets.