You hear about it more and more: microfibre bedding. But what is it, exactly? And why are so many people, including those with sensitive skin or allergy concerns, choosing it over traditional cotton?
In this article we explain everything clearly. No jargon, but all the information you need to make the right choice for your bedroom.
What exactly is microfibre?
Microfibre is a material made up of extremely fine fibres, thinner than a human hair. That fineness is what gives it its characteristic cloud-like softness.
These fibres are woven into a fine, close structure that does two things at once: it feels soft against the skin and it draws moisture away from the body. That sets microfibre apart from many other fabrics, where softness and moisture management often work against each other.
At SJUMO, we use a specially developed microfibre made from 100% recycled yarns. That means the same ultra-soft feel with a significantly smaller environmental footprint.
Why do people sleep better under microfibre?
There are a few concrete reasons why microfibre bedding continues to grow in popularity:
1. It feels softer than you'd expect
The ultra-fine fibres lie closer to your skin than coarser yarns. Many people describe it as sleeping on a cloud without the clammy feeling you might expect.
2. It helps regulate your temperature
High-quality microfibre is designed to be breathable, with fine fibres that allow air to circulate and help draw warmth and moisture away from the body. The result: you're less likely to wake up feeling too hot or too cold. It's worth noting that this depends on quality, budget microfibre with a very tight, heavy weave can trap heat rather than release it. SJUMO's microfibre is specifically developed to balance softness with airflow.
3. It is hypoallergenic
Microfibre's close weave leaves little room for house dust mites to settle, especially compared to looser woven fabrics. For people with allergies or sensitive skin, that's a big advantage. That said, bedding alone rarely eliminates allergy symptoms entirely; regular washing and good ventilation matter just as much.
4. It is durable and virtually crease-free
High-quality microfibre is naturally wrinkle-resistant, colourfast and does not shrink in the wash. After many washes it remains just as soft as on the first night. That makes it a smart long-term investment.
Microfibre vs cotton: what's the difference?
| Microfibre | Cotton | |
| Softness | Ultra-soft from the very first night | Gets softer with washing |
| Temperature regulation | Good (quality-dependent) | Good (high-quality weaves) |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Limited |
| Care | Crease-free, quick-drying | More care required |
| Sustainability | High (recycled yarns) | High (organic cotton) |
| Price | Accessible | Wide range |
Cotton has its own strengths, it is a natural fibre and breathes exceptionally well at higher quality levels. But microfibre wins on softness, low-allergen properties and ease of care.
Not all microfibre is the same
An important caveat: microfibre quality varies enormously between brands. Budget microfibre can feel scratchy, trap heat and make you sweat, and develop pilling quickly.
SJUMO's microfibre has been specially developed for bedding: finely woven, with a structure designed to balance softness and airflow. All Silky Smooth products are 100% recycled and carry OEKO-TEX certification, meaning they have been independently tested for harmful substances.
How to care for your microfibre bedding
Microfibre is easy to look after. A few guidelines:
- Wash at 40°C maximum with a mild detergent, no bleach
- Avoid fabric softener, it coats the fibres and reduces moisture-wicking over time
- Tumble dry on low heat or air dry, it dries quickly
- No ironing needed, it comes out of the wash crease-free
Ready to feel the difference?
Microfibre bedding isn't something you read about, it's something you feel. SJUMO's Silky Smooth collection is made from 100% recycled microfibre and is ultra-soft from the very first night.
