What Are Split King Sheets?

Folded blue sheet set

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Split king sheets, as the name suggests, are designed to be used on a split king bed. If you've never heard of a split king bed, it is essentially a king size bed that is made up of two twin mattresses that are not connected and can therefore each have a different firmness level. While the bed and the two mattresses form the same size as a classic king bed, instead of using one king sheet set, a split king bed uses two separate fitted sheets for each of the mattresses but one only flat sheet. Read on to find out more about the different types of split king sheets available as well as the benefits of a split king bed.

What Are Split King Sheets?

Split king sheets consist of two separate fitted sheets that fit on each of the twin mattresses that make up a split king bed.

What Is a Split King Bed?

Before going into more detail about split king sheets, it's important to understand what a split king bed is and what its benefits are. Like a standard king bed, a split king bed can accommodate a mattress that is 76 inches wide, but instead of using one mattress, it uses two separate twin size mattresses that add up to that size.

The main advantage and reason why people opt for a split king bed is the fact that each of the mattresses can be customized to their preferred comfort level and desired firmness and elevation to ensure the best possible sleep quality. Having two separate mattresses also means that if one person gets up, the other person's sleep is not disturbed as the movement of one mattress does not affect the other.

Types of Split King Sheets

As mentioned above, a split king sheet set consists of two twin size fitted sheets, one king size flat sheet and pillow cases. The sheet sets are available in many different materials, but the following are popular choices:

100% Cotton

You can't go wrong with sheets made from 100% cotton; they are breathable, durable, easy to maintain and highly comfortable. The quality of a cotton sheet set depends on its thread count, however a higher thread count doesn't always mean higher quality. Look for sheets that have a 200—400 thread count as that tends to be the sweet spot for comfort and quality.

Egyptian Cotton

Egyptian cotton is often considered the best material for sheets, partly because of its comfortable feel and partly because of its durability. It is made from fibers that are longer than those in regular cotton, which in turn makes the yarn stronger, increasing the density of the threads. Egyptian cotton tends to be associated with a more luxurious look and feel, and if you're looking to invest in a high quality sheet set, this is an excellent option, especially if the thread count is 600 or above.

Microfiber

If you're looking for a budget-friendly sheet set, microfiber will give you good value for your money. Microfiber sheets are made from synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon, and are both soft and durable, while also being lightweight and easy to keep wrinkle-free. They have an almost silky, satiny look and feel to them and tend to hold heat well, so they're a good choice if you're a cold sleeper.

Flannel

Flannel sheets are a great choice for the colder seasons as they are warm and cozy to sleep in! They are made from a blend of cotton, wool and various synthetic fibers such as polyester, and are known for being highly comfortable and long-lasting. For the most breathable and comfortable option, go with a cotton-flannel blend set.

Percale

Percale is made from cotton, sometimes with the addition of bamboo or synthetic fibers, and is a lightweight, breathable material perfect for warm climates and the hotter months of the year. Percale sheets are an affordable option and usually have a lower thread count than other types of sheets, with 300 considered the best thread count for them.

Split King Sheet Set vs. King Sheet Set

Split King Sheet Set
  • Includes two fitted sheets, one flat sheet and pillow cases.

  • Tends to be slightly more expensive.

  • Takes longer to make the bed since there are two mattresses.

King Sheet Set
  • Includes one fitted sheet, one flat sheet and pillow cases.

  • Tends to be less expensive and more readily available.

  • Takes less time to make the bed as there is only one mattress.