Sheet Happens - Choose Wisely
When it comes to outfitting your vacation rental with sheets, there’s one question that often pops up: Should I go white or opt for something a little more colorful, or a pattern? It’s a battle as old as liquid vs. powder detergent itself, and while it may seem like a matter of personal preference, there’s more to the decision than meets the design choice eye. After combing through recommendations from hundreds of experienced hosts, we’ve broken down the pros and cons of both options. Spoiler alert: The debate is far from settled, but there are some clear takeaways.
The Case for White Sheets: The Classic Choice
Ah, white sheets—clean, crisp, and undeniably chic. It’s hard to deny the appeal of a fresh set of white linens, especially in a rental where first impressions matter. But is it really all sunshine and rainbows?
The Pros:
Bleach-Friendly: White sheets are the gold standard for cleanliness. Any stain? Just bleach it out. According to several hosts (shout-out to California Design Den fans), the ability to bleach your sheets ensures that they always look fresh. Many have shared their secret weapon: OUT White Brite Laundry Whitener, which keeps whites from yellowing over time.
Easy to Spot Stains: If a guest happens to leave a little "souvenir" behind (ahem), it’s easy to spot and pre-treat. Plus, guests appreciate the "clean" vibe that white sheets give off. It's like an instant trust-builder—nothing says "luxury" like a pristine bed, right?
Timeless Look: White sheets never go out of style. Whether your Airbnb is a beach cottage or a downtown penthouse, white sheets can fit almost any aesthetic.
The Cons:
They Get Dingy (Eventually): Let’s face it, no matter how much bleach you use, white sheets are notorious for fading and showing every little sign of wear and tear. A few rounds in the washing machine, and they might not look as fresh as they once did.
The Wrinkle Factor: It’s true—white sheets can be a wrinkle magnet. While some hosts swear by the "smooth-by-hand" trick after they come out of the dryer, it’s a bit of a chore.
High Maintenance: Some hosts lament that white sheets are a bit of a diva. They require special care to keep them looking their best, and many hosts (especially cleaners) might prefer sheets that are less high-maintenance.
Pro Tip: Regularly bleaching and using laundry whiteners like OUT White Brite can help you keep things looking crisp.
The Non-White Sheets: The Underdog That Might Just Win You Over
Okay, so white sheets aren’t for everyone. Maybe you’re looking for something that hides stains, requires less upkeep, matches the room decor, or you color code your linens to make turnovers quicker, or just feels a bit cozier. Enter non-white sheets—gray, navy, beige, even bold patterns. Could this be the future of vacation rental linens?
The Pros:
Stain-Hiding Magic: If you’re tired of the constant battle against stains, non-white sheets might just be your new best friend. According to Airbnb and VRBO hosts, colors like gray or navy are great at concealing those pesky marks that white sheets would otherwise amplify.
Wrinkle Resistance: Darker or patterned sheets are far less likely to show wrinkles, which means less time spent ironing or smoothing out the fabric after every wash.
A Cozier Feel: A lot of hosts (like the ones loving Luxome’s bamboo sheets) prefer non-white options because they offer a more inviting, comfortable vibe. Guests often comment that darker sheets make the space feel warmer and more luxurious. Plus, non-white sheets don’t scream “hotel” as loudly, which is perfect if you want a more homely feel.
The Cons:
Fading Happens Too: While they’re good at hiding stains, non-white sheets aren’t immune to the passage of time. If you’re going with dark or vibrant colors, be prepared for some fading over multiple washes. Stick to high-quality fabrics, like California Design Den’s cotton or Luxome’s bamboo, and you’ll be better off in the long run.
Less Bright and Clean Feeling: Some guests really do love the stark, fresh feeling that white sheets bring to a room. Non-white sheets, while cozy, might not hit that "crisp and pristine" mark for everyone. It’s a subjective thing—but don’t say we didn’t warn you.
HAIR: Yes, pesky little hairs (especially light color ones) can stand out on solid colored sheets - especially if you allow pets, and their souvenir hair. Yes, we know you wash your sheets EVERY time, but let’s agree sometimes SHEETS HAPPEN.
Pro Tip: If you're leaning toward non-white sheets, go for high-quality, durable materials. Bamboo and Pima cotton are solid choices because they offer luxury and longevity. Also, have a lint roller on hand when changing sheets, and do a quick roll before putting the bed cover back on.
The Data-Backed Verdict: What Are Hosts Actually Using?
After analyzing 220 survey results, including 17 Airbnb Super Hosts, and validating these results against discussion forums filled with seasoned short term rental hosts, here’s what we’ve gathered:
California Design Den sheets (available on Amazon) came up again and again as a top choice for cotton sheets. Hosts love the balance of quality, price, and the fact that they come in both white and non-white options. Many swear by them for their durability, comfort, and ease of care.
Luxome Bamboo Sheets (available on Amazon) stood out as a luxury option, with bamboo being praised for its silky smooth feel and temperature regulation properties. Hosts love the way these sheets feel like satin but with the eco-friendly bonus of bamboo.
Kirkland Signature Sheets from Costco were a surprise hit for their value and comfort. With a 680-thread-count Pima cotton blend, they offer a luxurious feel without the premium price tag. Plus, they come in classic, no-fuss white.
So, what’s the bottom line?
White sheets are a classic for a reason. They're easy to clean, bleach, and maintain that clean look. But they’re also high-maintenance and susceptible to yellowing over time. Non-white sheets, on the other hand, offer stain-hiding powers and cozy vibes but may fade faster. It all comes down to what feels right for your property and your guests.
Having trouble staying organized, try these sheet wraparounds to keep your closet organized and efficiently during changeovers or as you try to communicate with cleaners.
At the end of the day, whether you go white or non-white, the most important thing is quality. As countless hosts agree, it’s the durability and feel of the fabric that will really impress your guests. So go ahead, make your choice! Your guests will thank you with great reviews for quality and cleanliness.
