The “So Retro” $26 Flannel Sheets That’ll Keep You Cozy All Winter (Perfect for Gifting!)

Morgan PryorShopping Writer, Lifestyle
Morgan PryorShopping Writer, Lifestyle
I cover shopping trends and must-have home products — from organizers to sofas to vacuums. I also put them to the test to see if they're really worth spending your money on. I’m based in New York, NY.
published Dec 4, 2024
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
bed with pale green linens, pink and blue pillows, small deep blue gallery wall of vintage floral framed art, wood bedside tables
Credit: Karis Danish

I’ve tried nearly every kind of sheets out there — cotton percale, jersey, linen, bamboo, even nylon — but I only got around to putting flannel on my bed for the first time recently. I don’t know why it took me so long, having spent the past five years braving winters in the Northeast, but now they’ve become my favorite material by far. Even with the thermostat cranked up, the draft in my apartment never seems to go away, so my flannel-clad bed has become my respite. In fact, it feels so cozy that I don’t even turn my heat on at night anymore. To save on my energy bill, I’m planning on investing in more flannel sheets ASAP.

Not only is it far softer and thicker than most other fabrics I’ve tried, but flannel also has the benefit of coming in a lot of winter- and holiday-themed prints. I just found a set from Walmart that has a retro, festive look to it, as well as overwhelmingly positive reviews. As if that wasn’t enough to convince me, the price is right at only $26, too.

What Is the Mainstays Knitted Star Flannel Sheet Set?

First off, let’s break down why flannel is a top-notch choice for the winter. Most flannel sheets are crafted from cotton, using a process called “napping” that gives it its fuzzy and warm feel. It creates small air pockets that trap heat. So, a 100% cotton brushed flannel set like this one will be soft right out of the package, and you won’t need to wash it multiple times to break it in like you do with others. The lack of synthetic materials ensures that. It’s designed to fit snug on deep mattresses, so it won’t bunch up on you either. 

The star pattern looks like little multicolored snowflakes, taking a more subtle approach to the holiday theme. The slightly faded color scheme and simple shapes will give your bedroom a vintage vibe, especially if you pair the sheets with a solid-colored quilt. (Personally, I recommend this one from Brooklinen. I’m currently using it with my own flannel sheets.) Even if you don’t make your bed fully, the print instantly makes everything look more put together.

Credit: Walmart

What Walmart Shoppers Are Saying

Average Rating: 4.8/5

“They washed and dried well and have a nice flannel feel to them. They have a very soft feel, aren’t extremely thick, but they’re an unbeatable value for the price. My mattress is about 14 inches deep and they fit perfectly.” – Walmart Customer

“The flannel sheets look and feel high end. Excellent price. 100% cotton [so] they will last for decades. They wash and dry beautifully. I purchased the star design. I love them.” – Tina

“Very impressed with the quality of these sheets! My bedroom is very cold in the winter, and these keep me nice and toasty!” – LauraLea

According to many shoppers, this sheet set could easily be priced way more than it is. Take it from me, it’s an affordable upgrade that’ll pay itself off quickly; you won’t have to turn your heat on nearly as often! Considering that and the fact that this set is an easy way to get your space in the holiday spirit, it should go straight into your cart.

Buy: Mainstays 4-Piece Knitted Star Flannel Adult Sheet Set, $25.97

Sorry, this list is no longer accepting subscriptions.

Feel free to subscribe to our other emails.

More to Love from Apartment Therapy