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A quick look at the best pajamas
- Best cotton pajamas: The Company Store Company Organic Cotton Family Snug-Fit Pajama Set
- Best flannel pajamas: L.L. Bean Scotch Plaid Flannel Pajamas
- Best eco-friendly pajamas: tentree TreeFleece Bamone and Atlas Sweatpants
- Best pajama joggers in women’s sizes: Aerie Good Vibes Jogger
- Best pajama sweatpants in women’s sizes: Wild Fable High-Rise Sweatpants
- Best pajama set in women’s sizes: Nordstrom Moonlight Pajamas
- Best budget pajamas in women’s sizes: Stars Above Beautifully Soft Short Sleeve Notch Collar Top and Shorts Pajama Set
- Best silk pajamas in women’s sizes: Lunya Washable Silk Set
- Best eucalyptus pajamas in women’s sizes: Sijo Eucalyptus Jogger
- Best bamboo pajamas in women’s sizes: Cozy Earth Long Sleeve Stretch-Knit Bamboo Pajama Set
- Best plus-size nightgown in women’s sizes: Torrid Charcoal Grey & Black Sleep Chemise
- Best plus-size sleep shorts in women’s sizes: Torrid Black Lace Trim Sleep Short
- Best sleep shorts in women’s sizes: Old Navy Drawstring Pajama Shorts
- Best sleep romper in women’s sizes: Coyuchi Solstice Organic Romper
- Best nursing pajamas in women’s sizes: Motherhood Maternity Nursing 3-Piece Sleep Set
- Best joggers in men’s sizes: Old Navy Lightweight Jersey-Knit Joggers
- Best pajama sweatpants in men’s sizes: Hanes EcoSmart Fleece Sweatpant
- Best pajama set in men’s sizes: J. Crew Pajama Set in Cotton Poplin
- Best sleep shorts in men’s sizes: Nautica Soft Knit Elastic Waistband Sleep Lounge Short
- Best budget pajamas in men’s sizes: Croft & Barrow True Comfort Knit Pajama Pants
- Best silk pajamas in men’s sizes: LILYSILK 22 Momme Unique Silk Pajamas Set with Double Row Pipping
Pajamas, loungewear, nightclothes — no matter what you call them, the clothes you wear to bed matter almost as much as the clothes you wear during the day. You might not dress to impress when you’re headed to bed, but choosing the right pajamas can play an important part in your nighttime routine.
Good pajamas fit well and feel comfortable on your skin — without scratchy tags and tight sleeves or waistbands that keep you tossing and turning.
Breathable fabrics can make a big difference, too. Fleece pajamas might seem like a good fit for the coldest months of winter, but if you tend to sleep warm, you might wake up uncomfortably hot or even soaked in sweat.
An old T-shirt and sleep shorts or your favorite sweats might work just fine for you. But if you’re ready to retire your worn-out PJs and refresh your sleepwear, our top picks can get you started on your search for the perfect pair.
How we chose the best pajamas
There’s a lot to consider when choosing the best pajamas. We examined the following features in our recommendations:
Customer reviews and testing
When trying to determine how any type of clothing holds up, it’s always helpful to read customer reviews. This helps you get a better idea of how the garment works for real people.
We read through customer reviews for all the pajamas on our list to make sure reviewers really like these products. In some cases, we also offer insight on pajamas we tried ourselves.
Materials
We looked for pajamas made from comfortable, breathable materials. When pajamas feature blended or synthetic fabrics, we checked reviews to see what customers had to say about the feel and breathability.
Where possible, we looked for companies that support sustainable practices.
Established brands
You can find pajamas for sale in any corner of the internet. To make your shopping experience easier, we stuck to known brands with clear, easy-to-navigate websites.
Price
We included pajamas in a range of prices to meet the needs of people shopping on a budget as well as those who don’t mind spending more.
Size options
Not everyone fits into a S to XL size range. While many brands are extending their sizes in recognition of this fact, clothing companies still have a long way to go. When possible, we tried to include pajamas that come in more sizes to better meet the needs of every shopper.
Pricing guide
Pajama prices can vary widely, depending on the materials used, the brand, where they were made, and their sustainability. Affordable pajamas can feel perfectly comfortable, but sometimes you may want to spend a little more for a higher-quality product and truly luxurious feel.
We’ve given prices for our pajama picks according to the following:
- $ = under $30
- $$ = $30–$75
- $$$ = $76–$100
- $$$$ = over $100
Note: Our pricing guide reflects base prices. You can save further by taking advantage of sale prices. Many of the brands here offer sales and discounts from time to time.
Healthline’s picks for the best pajamas
Best cotton pajamas
The Company Store Company Organic Cotton Family Snug-Fit Pajama Set
- Price: $$
- Material: Organic cotton
- Sizes: XS to XXL
If you prefer a basic pair of pajamas, this set from The Company Store may be a great match. The organic cotton used in these pajamas is breathable and pre-washed to feel extra soft — two features that promote optimal sleep comfort.
These pajamas have a snug fit and ribbing at the cuffs, so you won’t have to worry about loose material bunching up in bed. What’s more, they’re easy to care for and come in several different colors.
Plus, you’ll find matching pajamas in men’s, children’s, and, yes, dog sizes (just in case your dog needs some new nightwear, too).
A few people say the sizing of these pajamas runs large. If you have a smaller body frame, you might have trouble finding the right fit. Other reviewers — taller people in particular — like the length of the pajamas.
People say they appreciate the length of the shirt and the cuffs on the legs, and that they help prevent the top and bottom from riding up. In general, reviewers have nothing but praise for these pajamas, calling them soft and comfortable with quality construction and a great fit.
Buy The Company Store Company Organic Cotton Family Snug-Fit Pajama Set online in women’s sizes here and men’s sizes here.
Best flannel pajamas
L.L. Bean Scotch Plaid Flannel Pajamas
- Price: $$
- Material: Cotton flannel
- Sizes: XS to 3X
Love the look and feel of classic flannel? Try this brushed cotton flannel pajama set from L.L. Bean for warmth on cold winter evenings. Pockets, an elastic drawstring waist, and a button-down top offer a traditional style.
Reviewers say the quality construction makes these pajamas well worth the price. The company offers a range of sizes, including women’s petite and tall and men’s regular and tall sizes.
People call these pajamas comfortable and cozy, saying they stay that way even after multiple washes. A few reviewers note that the quality of recently purchased pajamas doesn’t compare to that of pajamas they purchased in previous years, mentioning things like odd sizing, poor construction, and pilling after the first wash.
For the most part, however, reviewers love these pajamas, praising the quality, comfort, and the “perfect” weight of the flannel. As for shrinkage, reviews vary — some people say there’s no shrinkage in the dryer, others say they do shrink a little and recommend ordering a size up.
Buy the L.L. Bean Scotch Plaid Flannel Pajamas online in women’s sizes here and in men’s sizes here.
Best eco-friendly pajamas
tentree TreeFleece Bamone and Atlas Sweatpants
- Price: $$
- Materials: Organic cotton, recycled polyester, and Tencel Lyocell
- Sizes: XS to XL
If you’re moving toward more sustainable clothing choices, you’ve probably realized eco-friendly sleepwear isn’t that easy to find. These sweatpants from sustainable clothing company tentree have a simple design that makes them ideal for sleep or relaxation.
They’re made out of the company’s TreeFleece fabric, which combines lyocell fibers (made from wood pulp) with organic cotton and recycled polyester.
By making a purchase, you’re also supporting the environment. The company says they plant 10 trees for each item purchased.
Reviewers love the quality and cozy feel of these sweats. One person calls them “literal clouds for pants.” Most people have no complaints, but a few people say they tend to run a little long and others mention some pilling after washing. Still, people love the lightweight, soft fabric, saying these are sweats to live in.
Buy the tentree TreeFleece Bamone Sweatpant online in women’s sizes here and the tentree TreeFleece Atlas Sweatpant online in men’s sizes here.
Best joggers for pajamas in women’s sizes
Aerie Good Vibes Jogger
- Price: $$
- Materials: Cotton and polyester
- Sizes: XXS to XXL
Interested in pajamas that can carry you from your bed into your morning? No problems here! Comfort is important, and these cozy fleece joggers from Aerie are made to equip you for relaxation in bed or around the house.
Similar to sweatpants, these joggers feature a more lightweight, breathable fabric and have a tapered leg. These easy-lounging pants have pockets, a regular rise, and a relaxed fit for optimal comfort.
These joggers earn mostly positive reviews. Reviewers praise the softness of the fabric and call the weight of these pants “just right” for sleeping, lounging, or running errands. People also mention the slightly looser fit, suggesting the joggers work well for people who find other pairs a bit tight.
Other reviewers say these joggers are a little thin and not quite durable enough for long-term wear.
American Eagle Outfitters, Aerie’s parent company, doesn’t offer a full range of extended sizes, but they do offer more size options than many fashion brands. The company is also known for their inclusive advertising.
Buy the Aerie Good Vibes Jogger online.
Best sweatpants for pajamas in women’s sizes
Wild Fable High-Rise Sweatpants
- Price: $
- Materials: Cotton and recycled polyester
- Sizes: XS to 4X
For classic sweatpants, look no further than your local Target — just note you might find more sizes in stock online.
These full-length sweatpants are high-waisted and have a drawstring for a more comfortable fit. They also have pockets, which reviewers love.
Reviewers like the traditional looser fit of these pants. People rave about the sweats, calling them thick, warm, and comfortable — just right for sleeping and lounging in colder weather.
While most people call the quality excellent for the price (and even went back to buy more colors), a few people mention that they produce some lint after going through the wash.
Buy the Wild Fable High-Rise Sweatpants online.
Best pajama set in women’s sizes
Nordstrom Moonlight Pajamas
- Price: $$
- Materials: Modal and spandex
- Sizes: XXS to XXL
These modal-blend pajamas from Nordstrom are designed for dreamier sleep. The swing-style button-down top and loose-legged pants offer a relaxed fit, while the elastic drawstring waist helps keep the pants comfortably and securely in place.
The variety of color and pattern options makes it easier for everyone to find an appealing pair. What’s more, Nordstrom says these pajamas were made in a factory that promotes female empowerment and workplace equality through HERproject.
A few reviewers say these pajamas are of disappointingly low quality, and some say they notice an unpleasant smell that persists after washing. Many reviewers love these pajamas, though, calling them lightweight, warm, cozy, and extra soft. Several reviewers say they like the pajamas so much, in fact, they bought more.
According to the care instructions, these pajamas can go through the dryer, but several people recommend hanging them to dry for the best results.
Buy the Nordstrom Moonlight Pajamas online.
Best budget pajamas in women’s sizes
Stars Above Beautifully Soft Short Sleeve Notch Collar Top and Shorts Pajama Set
- Price: $
- Materials: Modal and spandex
- Sizes: XS to 4X
This short-sleeve pajama set may be affordably priced, but it still has a luxurious feel. We love the super-soft cozy fabric and think the relaxed fit is just right for comfortable sleep.
These pajamas may not keep you warm on the coldest nights, but they could be a great option if you live in a warmer climate, sleep hot, or keep your house warm year-round. The brand also makes loungewear for lazy days in.
In general, reviewers rave about how soft and comfortable these pajamas are, with most people calling them a great value for the price. A few people say they work great for pregnancy and nursing. Others say the lightweight, breathable fabric makes for great year-round pajamas.
A few reviewers say the buttons on the black pajama set come undone while sleeping, and others say the fabric and construction are somewhat lacking in quality. Several people suggest sizing up if you’re between sizes on the bottom, since the shorts seem to run smaller than the top.
Buy the Stars Above Beautifully Soft Short Sleeve Notch Collar Top and Shorts Pajama Set online.
Best silk pajamas in women’s sizes
Lunya Washable Silk Set
- Price: $$$$
- Material: Washable silk
- Sizes: S to 3XL
Silk has more to offer beyond a smooth, luxurious feel. Silk is strong, for one, so silk garments can last a long time. But it’s the temperature-regulation properties of this natural fiber that make it a great fabric for pajamas.
In cold weather, silk can help trap body heat and keep you warm. But in warm weather, its breathability helps keep you cool and comfortable. It also resists dust and mildew and can be gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Tempted to splurge on luxury pajamas? Lunya’s tank top and shorts set features machine-washable silk with an easy fit designed for optimal sleep comfort.
Reviewers love the look and feel of these “stunning” pajamas, calling them luxurious and lush. People say the pajamas generally fit well, and they feel comfortable and cool through the night without any bunching. Many reviewers say they never want to take them off.
Buy the Lunya Washable Silk Set online.
Best eucalyptus pajamas in women’s sizes
Sijo Eucalyptus Jogger Pants
- Price: $$
- Materials: Eucalyptus tencel and elastane
- Sizes: XS to XXL
Tencel, a newer fabric made from eucalyptus, offers several benefits that make it ideal for sleepwear. Eucalyptus fabric is both lightweight and breathable, so it’s made to keep you comfortable — even on warmer nights.
The fabric is also known for its moisture-wicking abilities, so if you tend to get a little sweaty as you sleep (or lounge), eucalyptus fabric can help keep you comfortably dry.
Sustainably sourced eucalyptus has the added bonus of being environmentally friendly.
These sustainable joggers from Sijo are made from OEKO-TEX certified fabric, which means they’re free from harmful substances. They also have pockets, cuffed ankles, and a relaxed fit for optimal comfort. Tops are sold separately, but you can bundle an outfit for a discount.
Reviewers love these joggers, calling them airy and cozy at the same time. People say they’re perfect for warm or cold weather, since they stay comfortable regardless of the temperature.
Reviews suggest they work great for sleeping, lounging, or working out. One reviewer says they’ve never felt so relaxed by loungewear, comparing the movement of the fabric across the skin to a mini massage.
Buy the Sijo Eucalyptus Jogger Pants online.
Best bamboo pajamas in women’s sizes
Cozy Earth Long Sleeve Stretch-Knit Bamboo Pajama Set
- Price: $$$$
- Materials: Bamboo and spandex
- Sizes: XS to XL
Like eucalyptus, bamboo fabric is known for its temperature regulation and moisture-wicking abilities. This long-sleeved PJ set from Cozy Earth is designed for breathable, soft comfort as you sleep and lounge. The loose fit is designed to make relaxation easier, and the soft, stretchy fabric is free of dyes and harsh chemicals. (They also come in a short set.)
Since Cozy Earth prioritizes sustainability, you’ll sleep greener in these pajamas, too. The company also offers a 100-night sleep trial, so you can return them for free if you don’t love them.
These pajamas earn overwhelmingly positive reviews, with most people praising how soft and comfortable they feel. Reviewers also love the pockets. Several people call these their “new favorite pajamas,” saying they keep them cooler and help reduce sweating. A few reviews suggest the pajamas work well for people with sensitive skin.
Several reviewers do say the pajama bottoms run a little short, but most people say they love them anyway.
Buy the Cozy Earth Long Sleeve Stretch-Knit Bamboo Pajama Set online.
Best plus-size nightgown in women’s sizes
Torrid Charcoal Grey & Black Lace Sleep Chemise
- Price: $$
- Materials: Rayon and spandex
- Sizes: M to 6X
This chemise from Torrid features a lace bodice with adjustable straps and inset wireless cups for support. The rayon skirt is a loose, lightweight knit designed for comfort and breathability.
Reviewers love the way this chemise fits and feels. Several people praise the supportive bust and soft, comfortable fabric. People also praise the quality construction, saying this nightdress is perfect for sleep or relaxation. In fact, many reviewers say they wish they could wear this all the time.
Several reviewers did say the bust ran a bit small, even in their usual size, and recommend sizing up.
Buy the Torrid Charcoal Grey & Black Lace Sleep Chemise online.
Best plus-size sleep shorts in women’s sizes
Torrid Black Lace Trim Sleep Short
- Price: $
- Materials: Rayon and spandex
- Sizes: M to 6X
If you prefer to wear your favorite T-shirt to bed and just need some comfortable sleep shorts to complete the look, these simple knit shorts from Torrid might do the trick. Best for warmer weather or warm sleepers, these shorts feature lace trim and an adjustable ribbon drawstring for a more comfortable fit.
Reviewers love these shorts, calling them soft and sexy. People praise the stretchy fit, the comfortable waistband, and the breathability. They say they’re perfect for warmer nights. Most reviewers say they’d recommend these shorts, and more than a few satisfied customers have bought multiple pairs.
Buy the Torrid Black Lace Trim Sleep Short online.
Best sleep shorts in women’s sizes
Old Navy Drawstring Pajama Shorts
- Price: $
- Materials: Rayon and spandex
- Sizes: XS to XXL
These basic sleep shorts have a drawstring waist and relaxed fit for added comfort. They come in several different colors and are affordably priced, so if you like them, you can grab a pair for (almost) every night of the week. They have a lower rise that hits below the natural waist, and they fall high on the thigh.
Some reviewers say they run a little big, while others say the length is too short for their liking. A few people dislike the drawstring design — you’ll find the tie on the inside of these shorts.
For the most part, however, people praise these sleep shorts, calling them breathable and soft with a comfortable fit.
Buy the Old Navy Drawstring Pajama Shorts online.
Best sleep romper in women’s sizes
Coyuchi Solstice Organic Romper
- Price: $$
- Material: Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified organic cotton
- Sizes: XS to L
A sleep romper might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it may be worth considering this one-piece garment if you hate the way pajamas get tangled or ride up in the night.
Rompers can also be great options for cozy loungewear. This fair trade organic cotton one-piece features adjustable straps, wide legs, and a loose fit that most reviewers love.
People say this romper works great for sleeping, lounging, and practicing yoga. Some reviewers say they live in this one-piece and never want to take it off. Reviewers love the soft, lightweight feel of the cotton and relaxed fit.
A few people with narrower shoulders say they have issues with the straps falling down. And people with smaller body frames might find the loose fit of the XS a little roomier than they’d like.
Buy the Coyuchi Solstice Organic Romper online.
Best nursing pajamas in women’s sizes
Motherhood Maternity Nursing 3-Piece Sleep Set
- Price: $$
- Materials: Cotton and polyester
- Sizes: S to XL
For easier nighttime nursing, give this 3-piece pajama set a try. It includes loose pajama bottoms, a V-neck top with soft straps, and a matching short robe to keep you warm on cooler evenings and mornings. The top has a shelf bra and clip-down hardware for easier breastfeeding.
Most reviewers love this set, calling it soft and comfortable. People praise the design, lightweight feel, and quality. Reviewers also love the robe’s pockets. A few people don’t love the shelf bra, but others say they like the additional support.
Buy the Motherhood Maternity Nursing 3-Piece Sleep Set online.
Best joggers in men’s sizes
Old Navy Lightweight Jersey-Knit Joggers
- Price: $
- Materials: Cotton and polyester
- Sizes: XS to XL and tall M to 3XL
These soft jersey joggers have a slouchy fit for more comfortable sleep or movement and an elastic drawstring waist for adjustability. Ribbed cuffs help keep them from riding up in your sleep, while the lightweight fabric is made to help you stay warm, but not too warm.
A few reviewers say the lightweight material of these joggers isn’t warm enough to wear out in very cold weather, so you may want to keep these for sleep or around the house.
Other reviewers call these great lounge pants, saying they’re soft and comfortable, with just the right weight and feel for bed, exercise, or quick errands.
Buy the Old Navy Lightweight Jersey-Knit Joggers online.
Best sweatpants in men’s sizes
Hanes EcoSmart Fleece Sweatpant
- Price: $
- Materials: Cotton and polyester
- Sizes: S to 3XL
These drawstring fleece sweats offer warmth and comfort to those wanting simple pants for sleeping and lounging in cold weather. Cuffed ankles make movement easier and help keep the warmth in, while the roomier fit makes them great for cozy relaxation.
Looking for a slightly more sustainable option that doesn’t break the bank? Up to 5 percent of the polyester in these pants comes from recycled plastic bottles.
Reviewers say the roomy fit is very roomy and note that the size guide might not offer the best guidance for sizing. Several people suggest sizing down for a typical relaxed fit, especially if you’re between sizes.
A few people had issues with the quality and inconsistent sizing between different purchases, but most reviewers love these comfortable “old-school” sweats, calling them a great value for the price. (For an even better value, check out the 2-pack.)
Skip these if you want pockets in your sweats — despite some conflicting product information, they are completely pocket-free.
Buy the Hanes EcoSmart Fleece Sweatpant online.
Best pajama set in men’s sizes
J. Crew Pajama Set in Cotton Poplin
- Price: $$$
- Material: Cotton
- Sizes: XS to XXL
The lightweight, breathable weave of these cotton poplin pajamas makes them a good choice for warmer sleepers or warmer climates. The pajama bottoms have an elastic waistband for a better fit, plus a fly front and pockets.
While the slim cut may not work for everyone, it might be just right if you dislike baggy pajamas and getting tangled up in excess fabric.
Reviewers call these pajamas cool, comfortable, and classy, saying they fit well and offer a put-together sleepwear look. A few hot sleepers say these pajamas keep them much cooler and help reduce nighttime overheating and sweating.
One reviewer says the pajamas rip easily and don’t seem designed for people with broad shoulders. But, beyond that, the main complaint seems to be that these pajamas don’t come in enough colors.
Buy the J. Crew Pajama Set in Cotton Poplin online.
Best sleep shorts in men’s sizes
Nautica Soft Knit Elastic Waistband Sleep Lounge Short
- Price: $
- Materials: Cotton and polyester
- Sizes: S to 3XL
If you like to sleep in a simple pair of shorts, this pair has you covered. With a button fly, pockets, and an elastic drawstring waist, they’re functional enough for lounging outside of bed. Reviews also suggest they’re sturdy enough for a quick trip outside to check the mail or take the dog out.
Several reviewers say the sizing is inconsistent between colors, and many people recommend sizing up for a better fit. In general, though, people love these shorts, calling them soft, lightweight, and breathable.
Some reviewers even say these are the only shorts they’ll wear to bed. Though polyester can sometimes trap heat and get uncomfortably warm, reviews suggest these shorts stay comfortable and dry. So, they may work well even for warm climates and hot sleepers.
Buy the Nautica Soft Knit Elastic Waistband Sleep Lounge Short online.
Best budget pajamas in men’s sizes
Croft & Barrow True Comfort Knit Pajama Pants
- Price: $
- Materials: Cotton and polyester
- Sizes: S to XXL
Looking for some simple pajama bottoms? These basic pants just might do the trick. With two pockets, a fly closure, and a tie waist, they’re easy to wear. Plus, the soft-knit cotton-polyester blend makes them comfortable and easy to care for.
Reviewers call these lightweight pants soft and cozy, saying they fit well and make great loungewear and sleepwear. Several people also praise the quality, saying these pants hold up well to both time and multiple washes.
A few reviewers say the pants run a bit big, while a few taller people mentioned the length fell a bit short. Still, most people recommend these pants as a great buy.
Buy the Croft & Barrow True Comfort Knit Pajama Pants online.
Best silk pajamas in men’s sizes
LILYSILK 22 Momme Unique Silk Pajamas Set with Double Row Pipping
- Price: $$$$
- Material: Mulberry silk
- Sizes: XS to 3XL
This 22 momme pajama set offers dreamy comfort for luxurious sleep and lounging. Momme (mm) is a measurement of silk quality and weight, with higher mm generally translating to heavier, more durable silk fabric.
These OEKO-TEX certified button-down pajamas feature a standard collar and cuffs, mother-of-pearl buttons, a button fly, and a partial elastic waist with a functional drawstring. The relaxed fit is made to add breathable comfort.
Reviewers praise the comfort, quality, and weight of these pajamas, saying they feel very soft and hold up well to washing. People love them for sleeping or lounging in, and a few even describe them as the best pajamas they’ve ever purchased.
Many reviewers say they fit perfectly, but a few people note they ran a bit small.
Buy the LILYSILK 22 Momme Unique Silk Pajamas Set with Double Row Pipping online.
How to shop for pajamas
You don’t have to stop with our list, of course. The tips below can help you as you continue your quest for the pajamas (or loungewear) of your dreams.
What fabrics make good pajamas?
When shopping for pajamas, you’ll likely see a lot of rayon and polyester blends. These materials are commonly used in sleepwear, especially at more affordable price points, but that doesn’t mean they make the best fabrics for nightwear.
- cotton
- linen
- silk
- bamboo
- eucalyptus
- wool
Still, plenty of people love the feel of rayon, which makes for soft, affordable pajamas. So, if you don’t have problems with overheating or sweating during sleep, you’re fine choosing the fabrics that feel most comfortable on your skin.
If you have sensitive skin, however, you might want to consider switching to natural fibers, particularly silk or soft organic cotton.
If you want pajamas that are easy to care for, make sure to check the care instructions before purchasing. Not all sleepwear can go through the spin cycle or dryer. Following the recommended care instructions extends the life of your pajamas. Also keep in mind that some natural fibers, such as linen, tend to wrinkle.
What’s a reasonable price?
A good pair of pajamas will hold up well to washing and accompany you through many nights of restful sleep. You can find a good quality set of pajamas for anywhere from $30 to $75.
Just keep in mind that price doesn’t always represent quality. While many pajamas with higher price tags boast top-quality fabrics and more durable construction, this isn’t always the case. Purchasing luxury pajamas that don’t last can be a huge disappointment — particularly when some affordable pajamas might last for years.
Always read customer reviews before making a purchase. These tend to offer a pretty accurate picture of how your new pajamas will last.
If you’re looking to sleep greener, be prepared to spend a little more. Supporting renewable fabrics, fair working wages, and sustainable production processes means your pajamas might come at a slightly higher cost. But many people making the switch to sustainable clothing consider this a worthwhile investment.
Does the brand really matter?
Maybe you don’t care about the brand of your pajamas when it comes to their label, but if you care about sustainable practices, it never hurts to do a little research before making your purchase.
More and more companies are working to reduce their carbon footprint by incorporating recycled fibers and water into their production processes and reduce waste in other ways. Brands also increasingly prioritize fair wages and safe, comfortable working conditions.
Many people prefer to support companies with sustainable, ethical business practices, along with brands that offer more size options. If sustainability matters to you, check the brand’s “About Us” or “Our Mission” page — most brands clearly advertise their commitment to sustainability here.
Remember, not everyone can afford the higher price tags of sustainable brands, and that’s OK. You should never feel guilty for buying what you can afford.
Other pajama considerations
A few last things to keep in mind when pajama shopping:
Do you even need pajamas?
Not sure you want to spend extra money on sleepwear no one will even see? Why not give naked sleeping a try?
This isn’t just a way to save some cash. Sleeping without clothes can help improve sleep quality and may offer several other benefits.
If you have a partner, sleeping naked together can bring you (emotionally) closer by triggering oxytocin release.
If you don’t want to sleep naked or wear pajamas, you might simply sleep in your underwear. If you go this route, you’ll want to choose underwear that are:
- Clean: Definitely put fresh ones on for bed
- Breathable: Skip the polyester or nylon shorts
- Loose-fitting: Constricting fabrics won’t improve your sleep
What if you get too hot? Or too cold?
The ideal temperature for comfortable sleep falls somewhere around 65°F, or 18.3°C.
When your pajamas (and your bedding) help you maintain a good sleeping temperature, the quality of your sleep may improve.
If you currently wake up feeling too warm or too cold, you might see some improvements after switching your pajamas and bedding.
Considering where you feel most uncomfortable can help:
- A sweaty neck? Consider pajamas without collars or ones with tank tops. V-neck tops can also help keep you cooler.
- Chilly feet? Put on clean, lightweight socks before bed.
- Hot feet? Skip the socks.
- Bunched pajamas making you hot and itchy? Look for pajamas that fit just right — loose enough for comfort but close enough to your body that you aren’t draped in excess fabric. Ankle and wrist cuffs can also help keep your pajamas in place, but you may want to opt for soft ribbed cuffs over tight elastic.
- Too hot or cold all over? Consider alternate bedding options, including breathable sheets and a cooling comforter. If you get too cold at night, try sleeping in comfortable layers and investing in bedding with good insulation.
How often do you need to wash them?
You don’t need to throw your pajamas in the wash every morning (unless you want to). The general consensus seems to be: wash your pajamas after wearing them three or four times.
If you shower immediately before putting your pajamas on, you can probably stretch this timeline a bit further.
Of course, if you lounge or exercise in your sleepwear, you’ll want to wash them more frequently. If you wear underwear to bed, you’ll want to wash that after each use.
Takeaway
If you tend to fall into bed in the clothes you’ve worn all day, you have a better option.
Swapping your day clothes for comfortable pajamas (or even nothing at all) could be the key to improved sleep.
Crystal Raypole has previously worked as a writer and editor for GoodTherapy. Her fields of interest include Asian languages and literature, Japanese translation, cooking, natural sciences, sex positivity, and mental health. In particular, she’s committed to helping decrease stigma around mental health issues.
