Bed sheets are available in almost any color and pattern you can think of, giving you the chance to pick your favorite tones, match them to your decor, or simply select the most functional and affordable set. The question is, how do you go about picking the right ones for you? From aesthetics to functionality, there are several ways to determine what sheets to pick. Come take a closer look as we provide a list of the best colors for bed sheets so you can hopefully figure out which ones will work for you.

Tip!

For more guidance on picking sheets based on materials and properties, read Sleep Comfortably With the Best Sheet Materials and Bed Sheet Buying Guide: How to Choose Bed Sheets.

What Are the Best Colors for Bedding?

(Shop this image: blue velvet beds, yellow sheets & pillowcases, white ottomans, wood nightstands, and red area rugs)

When you shop for your bedding, colors are one of the primary details you'll have to take into consideration (after the type of material you prefer). There is plenty of psychology behind the bed sheet colors and how they not only impact the overall style of your bedroom but can also affect your sleep quality.

• To help you make your decision when choosing your bed sheet color you need to think about your lifestyle.
• Do you have kids and/or pets that can stain the sheets?
• Do you often end up with stains and dirt in the bed?
• What is your personal taste?
• Do you want your bedding to match your bedroom?
• Do you want a cozy and welcoming environment?

Light Neutral Colors for Bed Sheets

Lighter-colored sheets are usually the easiest to work with thanks to their versatile nature. They can typically be matched to any bedroom style and have many sleep-promoting properties.

White Bed Sheets

White bed sheets are often associated with calmness and luxury, which can give your room a bigger and brighter feeling. While white may be simple, it does have a fresh and clean look that can match any decor and style with ease while keeping your space stress-free. It is easy to pair with plenty of other colors – especially if you intend to mix and match your bedding. Although this light color does tend to show dirt and stains more quickly, it is the only color you can use bleach on. Simply pour a little into your wash to ensure they are white and bright as new afterward (always check manufacturers instructions about using bleach).

Coordinating Colors
Any color of your choice.

Gray Bed Sheets

Gray is the most versatile sheet color since it is both modern and neutral while still helping you feel calm and relaxed. It has an edgier feel than other more muted colors too. This hue is reminiscent of rain clouds and water and proves to be a great addition to both classic and contemporary bedroom styles. Most gray sheets can hide sweat stains and marks a little better, meaning you hold off on laundry day for a few more days than you could with white sheets for example. Do note you should use only color-safe stain removers to clean gray bed sheets.

Coordinating Colors

• Yellow
• White
• Blue

Brown/Beige Bed Sheets

Beige offers a more casual and relaxed atmosphere (more than white or gray). This color mimics so many hues found in nature (trees, sand, and rocks), which is why it can imbue a peaceful feeling. It can also easily be matched to plenty of color schemes. Unfortunately, beige also shows stains but cannot be cleaned as easily as white sheets, making them better if you want to create a soothing space but don't have animals or kids that can potentially create a mess.

Coordinating Colors

• Red
• White
• Green

Ivory & Cream Bed Sheets

These sheets are off-white and feature a subtle touch of brown or beige to make a slightly darker color than bright white. They are also soothing and comforting while visually warming up the space. Ivory and cream sheets are ideal for more vintage aesthetics and coziness, and are fairly easy to clean. You can use these off-white sheets in the winter and swap to bright white sheets in summer.

Coordinating Colors

• Gray
• Brown/Beige
• White

Green Bed Sheets

Green is a verdant color that encourages peace and tranquility – especially lighter hues like olive and mint. It conjures images of forests and open landscapes, giving you that relaxed feeling but with more vibrancy than brown hues might. Olive green sheets, in particular, can be used in kid's rooms because this tone helps to hide grass and other outdoor stains easily.

Coordinating Colors

• Brown/Beige
• White

Light Blue Bed Sheets

Light blue is also nature-inspired, evoking thoughts of the sky, water, and flowers to encourage soft and serene emotions. It's also great for children, allowing them to enjoy the feeling of sleeping in the clouds too. This color mixes well with contrasting bedding like quilts and duvets, making the rest of the linens, furniture, and even decor stand out more. Unfortunately, light blue bed sheets don't hide stains as well as other darker hues.

Coordinating Colors

• Brown/Beige
• White
• Olive Green

Dark Colors for Bed Sheets

Darker sheets have a warm and inviting feeling that can help you experience more deep slumber. They are also much better at hiding stains than lighter colors are.

Dark Blue Bed Sheets

If you want a more traditional look in your bedroom, dark blue sheets are a good choice. This color is associated with rest and serenity – and, above all, is one of the best shades to hide dirt and stains on the sheets.

Coordinating Colors

• Gray
• Beige
• Light Blue
• White

Black Bed Sheets

Black is another dark hue that envelopes you in a warmth and calmness. This color creates a moodiness with a sophisticated aesthetic that is great for more dramatic styles like gothic, mid-century modern, and maximalism. It is the best color for camouflaging stains, meaning you can use them for longer between washes.

Coordinating Colors

• White
• Cream

Printed Bed Sheets

Printed sheets can inject personality into your bedroom. Though busy patterns can overwhelm the space, picking finer patterns like pinstripe and small florals can be an excellent way to elevate your sleep setup. Plus, printed sheets come in a variety of colors and patterns that can help camouflage any stains or spots.

Coordinating Colors

• Repeat a color from the pattern
• Solid colors in jewel tones

Tip!

If you're mixing colors and patterns or using contrasting accent colors, taking a balanced approach can keep your bedroom grounded. A solid sheet can work well with a printed duvet and vice versa. For more tips on styling printed sheets, read our guide How to Style Patterned Bedding With 7 Simple Tips.

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Now you can pick the best colors for your sheets that not only coordinate with the rest of your bedding and room, but also promote restful sleep.