While cotton has long been the standard for comfortable sleepwear, newer fabrics are transforming how we rest. Advances in textile technology have introduced softer, more breathable, and eco-friendly materials that outperform cotton in moisture control, skin sensitivity, and sustainability.
If you often wake up hot, experience skin irritation, or simply want to explore premium sleepwear options, these five cotton alternatives could help you sleep more comfortably.
Key Takeaways
• Cotton remains classic, but modern fabrics offer improved softness and temperature regulation.
• Modal, bamboo, and Tencel™ are top performers in sustainability and moisture management.
• The right fabric can help reduce night sweats and improve overall sleep quality.
• Investing in higher-quality materials ensures comfort that lasts beyond one season.
1. Modal: The Ultra-Soft Upgrade
Why it’s better: Modal, derived from beech tree pulp, offers an exceptionally smooth texture and superior moisture absorption compared to cotton. It can absorb up to 50% more moisture, keeping the body cool and dry throughout the night (Lenzing AG, 2024).
Sleep benefits: Breathable, silky against the skin, resistant to shrinking and fading.
Best for: Hot sleepers or those with sensitive skin.
2. Bamboo Viscose: Naturally Cool and Hypoallergenic
Why it’s better: Bamboo viscose is made from the cellulose of bamboo plants and is known for its thermoregulating properties. Studies from the Research Gate show bamboo fabrics effectively reduce heat buildup and skin irritation.
Sleep benefits: Soft, hypoallergenic, antibacterial, and moisture-wicking.
Best for: People prone to overheating or irritation.
3. Tencel™ Lyocell: The Eco-Luxury Option
Why it’s better: Tencel™ Lyocell is produced from sustainably sourced wood in a closed-loop system that reuses over 99% of water and solvents. According to Textile Exchange (2024), it’s one of the most sustainable fibers available today.
Sleep benefits: Smooth, breathable, and resistant to odor-causing bacteria.
Best for: Eco-conscious consumers seeking luxury-level comfort.
4. Silk: The Timeless Luxury
Why it’s better: Silk is a natural protein fiber that’s been prized for centuries for its lustrous texture and temperature-regulating properties. The Sleep Foundation (2023) notes that silk can help maintain body temperature stability throughout the night.
Sleep benefits: Gentle on skin and hair, naturally cooling, and hypoallergenic.
Best for: Those who prefer a luxurious, skin-soothing sleep experience.
5. Linen: The Breathable Classic
Why it’s better: Made from flax fibers, linen has an open weave that allows air to flow freely, making it ideal for hot climates. It becomes softer over time and naturally resists bacteria and moisture buildup.
Sleep benefits: Excellent airflow, long-lasting durability, and cooling comfort.
Best for: Warm sleepers and those in humid environments.
Why Choose That Girl Pajamas
That Girl Pajamas focuses on eco-conscious fabrics that balance comfort and responsibility. Among the most loved sustainable alternatives to cotton are modal and bamboo; both known for their softness, breathability, and lower environmental impact.
At the heart of our collection is modal, a semi-natural fiber made from sustainably sourced beechwood pulp. Compared to traditional cotton, modal requires less water and energy to produce, while offering a smoother, silkier feel that stays breathable through the night.
We also value the rise of bamboo fabric, another renewable option that’s gentle on sensitive skin and naturally antibacterial. Each That Girl Pajamas piece is crafted from OEKO-TEX® certified materials, ensuring safety, sustainability, and everyday comfort, so you can rest easy knowing your sleepwear is as kind to the planet as it is to your skin.
Bottom Line
Cotton is familiar, but newer fabrics offer a better balance of softness, temperature control, and eco-friendliness. Whether you prefer the smooth luxury of modal or the natural coolness of bamboo and silk, switching to a cotton alternative can elevate your comfort and help you sleep more soundly.
At That Girl Pajamas, we believe better rest begins with better fabric. Explore our new modal sleepwear collection to experience softness that redefines relaxation.
FAQs
1. Is modal better than cotton for sleeping?
Yes. Modal is smoother, more breathable, and better at regulating moisture during sleep.
2. Are bamboo pajamas good for sensitive skin?
Yes. Bamboo viscose is hypoallergenic and naturally antibacterial, making it gentle for sensitive skin.
3. What makes Tencel™ more sustainable than cotton?
Tencel™ is produced in a closed-loop system that reuses 99% of water and chemicals, minimizing waste and emissions.
4. Do silk pajamas help with night sweats?
Yes. Silk’s thermoregulating properties help maintain an even body temperature.
5. What’s the best cotton alternative overall?
Modal offers the best combination of softness, breathability, and easy care, making it ideal for everyday sleepwear.