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By the time you’ve entered adulthood, you become acutely aware of how vital sleep is to your productivity, happiness, and general health. Even so, The Sleep Foundation estimates 50 to 70 million Americans have ongoing sleep disorders, and women are 40 percent more likely to have insomnia than men.
Though seeking the help of a medical professional is recommended for ongoing sleep issues, if you want to improve your sleep hygiene tonight, consider your pajamas. Some sleep in their birthday suits, others in long t-shirts, or matching pajama sets. Whatever floats your boat—or rather, helps you rest, it’s smart to invest in quality fabrics that fit your body.
How to pick the best women’s pajamas
Even if you haven’t given much thought to pajamas beyond sleepover camp as a teenager, being thoughtful about your nighttime attire can be helpful. We spoke with Dr. Laura Purdy, MD, MBA, a licensed doctor and physician executive, for her top tips for shopping for PJs.
- Pay attention to quality. While you don’t need to spend a fortune, Dr. Purdy says you may find investing a little bit into what you wear when you sleep pays off in returns in self-care and quality sleep.
- Test different fabrics. There may be many reasons you’re not falling or staying asleep. But if your pajamas aren’t cozy, test out different fabrics to determine the best fit and feel for your sleep needs.
- Shop for comfort. While, yes, style might matter somewhat in your pajama selection, comfort is most important. After all, if you can’t lie down easily and drift off to sleep, you have the wrong pajamas.
Our top picks - best pajamas for women
Best top for support: Bravissimo Sleep Top and PJ Bottoms
PJ Bottoms $54 at bravissimo.com
Sleep Top $60 at bravissimo.com
Sleeping without a bra could be uncomfortable for women who are breastfeeding or who have a larger cup size. A little extra support goes a long way to decrease back pain and keep restlessness at bay.
This mostly viscose pajama set from Bravissimo provides built-in, non-wired, non-padded bra-sized cups that keep everything in place as you wiggle into the correct position. The matching drawstring pants are also soft without being too constricting. Reviewers rave about the smooth fabric, the boost in the top, and the overall comfort of the set.
Remember that, unlike a regular bra, you can’t adjust the straps on the top, so you may not be able to lift your chest as high as you usually do. Buying true to size is recommended so the inner layer doesn’t ride up as you toss and turn at night.
Specifications:
- Sizes: 28-40
- Colors: Light Blue; Navy
- Materials: 71% Viscose | 19% Polyamide | 10% Elastane
- Designs: Solid top; patterned bottom
- Care: Wash on cold, tumble dry low heat.
- Fit: A non-wired and non-padded inner bra-sized cups keep provides support and features a concealed hook and eye like a regular bra. Drawstring pants make it easy to put on and rest easy.
BRAVISSIMO SLEEP TOP
BRAVISSIMO PJ BOTTOMS
Most comfortable sleep top: Full Moon Top and Happy Hour Pant
Full Moon Top $124 at jjwinks.com
Happy Hour Pant $96 at jjwinks.com
When getting a good night’s rest after a long day, the last thing you want is to pull on scratchy, tight pajamas. Instead, most people crave comfort that’s oversized, cozy, and soft to the touch. While this pajama set is pricier, we love the overall fit, which features a scoop neck top and flared-leg bottom made of an elastic fabric that’s soft to wear and offers support in the right places. Reviewers rave it’s true to size and can double as loungewear. For those on the taller side, keep in mind the pants run a little shorter, so consider sizing up for added length.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colors: Black, Charcoal, Navy
- Materials: Modal/spandex
- Designs: Solid
- Care: Machine wash cold on delicate with a low dryer setting
- Fit: Top features their signature soft elastic Light Hug® shelf, providing comfortable yet discreet coverage. The flared bottoms are soft, and not too hot if you run warm while sleeping.
Full Moon Top
Happy Hour Pant
Best sustainable pajamas: Warrior Sustainable Lounge Set Bundle
Warrior Sustainable Lounge Set Bundle $135 at uwilawarrior.com
Mother Nature never gets a good night’s rest, since she’s constantly working to ensure the world goes ‘round. And if sustainability is one of your top priorities, you’ll appreciate this pajama set made of Oeko-Tex 100-certified fabric, meaning it was made without hazardous materials. If you have sensitive skin or are sensitive to fabrics, you’ll appreciate the soft, tagless design that runs true to size. Available in subtle, feminine colors, this size-inclusive set goes up to 3XL.
Reviewers also share that the material feels luxurious, and given the price tag, that makes sense. If you tend to overheat when you sleep, the shorts could be more comfortable and breathable for your rest. Keep in mind this set runs a little on the small side, so if you want a more oversized, comfy feel, size up.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-3XL
- Colors: Fragrant Lilac with Gold Trim; Tap Shoe Black with Gold Trim
- Materials: 73% Naia Acetate and 27% Nylon blend; Oeko-Tex 100 certified fabric, which means it is made with no hazardous chemicals.
- Designs: Solid with contrasting trim
- Care: Gentle wash cycle, tumble dry on low or lie flat to dry.
- Fit: Tagless, lightweight and super-soft, runs true to size.
Warrior Sustainable Lounge Set Bundle
Best personalizable pajama set: Long Sleeve Crewneck Sweatshirt and Sweatshorts
Long Sleeve Crewneck Sweatshirt: $38 at birdygrey.com
Sweatshorts: $28 at birdygrey.com
Whether you have a bachelorette party and want personalized matching sets for your friends or you want to monogram for your own use, this Birdy Grey set will check your boxes. What we love the most about this size-inclusive set, available in four muted colors, is the fabric texture. It’s made of the same material you’d expect in a matching sweat set, but more lightweight and fitted like a short and crewneck top. The drawstring in the shorts allows you to wear them loose or tight, and the high-quality design of the top makes it versatile enough to wear with jeans, too.
The biggest drawback of this highly-rated option is if you personalize it, you can’t return it—so make sure to read the sizing guide before purchasing.
Specifications:
- Sizes: S-3X
- Colors: Vanilla Cream; Sage; Dusty Blue; Cocoa
- Materials: 88% Polyester, 9% Rayon, 3% Spandex
- Designs: Personalization Available
- Care: Hand wash cold, tumble dry low or line dry.
- Fit: The sweatshorts feature a drawstring, while the sweatshirt has a crewneck. Both are very soft and cozy.
Crew Neck Sweatshirt - Vanilla Cream
Sweat Shorts - Vanilla Cream
Best nightgown for women: Boll and Branch Signature Sleepshirt
$98; Signature Sleepshirt
Nightgown choices tend to go in two directions: Skimpy or full-coverage. The signature sleep shirt from Boll and Branch is in its own category, with a polished yet comfortable look. This brand is known for its high-quality bedding, and now offers sleepwear made from the same 100 percent, long-staple organic cotton.
This means it’s breathable, ridiculously soft, and ultra-comfortable to wear. Small details elevate the design—like a decorative hemstitching on the French-style seams—and the high-low hem offers full coverage for your backside. Like all of their products, the sleep shirt is preshrunk, so it won’t change size when you wash and tumble dry. You can also take this out of bed and into your life, since the sophisticated style pairs well with jeans or skirts.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-XXL
- Colors: Sky, White
- Materials: 100% long-staple organic cotton
- Designs: Solid; decorative hemstitching along the French seams
- Care: Machine wash cold with like colors, inside out on a gentle cycle. Avoid bleach. Tumble dry on low or cool iron on the reverse side.
- Fit: This preshrunk fabric stays the same size with each wash, and features a double-button front closure and a rounded high-low hem for full coverage.
Boll and Branch Signature Sleepshirt
Best cotton matching pajama set: Third Love Kit Sleep Shirt and Boxer Set
Sleep Shirt: $56 at thirdlove.com; Boxer Short: $46 at thirdlove.com
When it comes to pajama fabrics, it’s really a personal preference on what feels and wears the best. While some aren’t sensitive to different blends, others catch the most shut-eye when wearing cotton sets, like this one. Available in two patterns and colors, this high-waisted bottom and oversized button-up top is a traditional, timeless approach to sleepwear.
It can double as sleepwear or loungewear, and reviewers say it’s designed for comfort. If you happen to run larger on the top, consider sizing up for better comfort. Also, while it’s not essential to everyone if wrinkles bother you, reviewers say this set needs to be pressed to have clean, smooth lines.
Specifications:
- Sizes: S/M; M/L; L/XL
- Colors: French Stripe; Buttercup
- Materials: 100% cotton
- Designs: Striped or solid
- Care: Machine wash with like colors. Lay flat to dry, or tumble dry on low.
- Fit: This soft cotton set features a high-waist fit on the bottom and an oversized, well-loved fit on the top. Breathable material keeps you from overheating and ensures you’re sleeping well.
Third Love Sleep Shirt
Best bamboo pajama set: Kyte Baby Women's Jogger Pajama Set in Emerald
Womens Jogger Pajama Set in Emerald: $75
If you’re a parent, you likely already know about Kyte Baby. This infant and child attire brand with a cult following is known for its lush bamboo line of clothing, from pajamas and onesies to sleep sacks and more. Now, it’s expanded to give mom and dad the same level of comfort with this jogger-style pajama set. Available in six vibrant colors, you can now match your little one—even if no one tucks you in or reads you a book before lights out.
The high-quality bamboo rayon that’s breathable, soft and very comfortable to wear is what sets Kyte products apart. Many reviewers rave about staying cool overnight, especially with hormone fluctuation during pregnancy and postpartum. One drawback, though, is the soft material can be a little see-through in lighter-colored hues, like oat or fog. If you’re worried about it, choose a darker color instead.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-3XL
- Colors: Emerald; Oat; Fog; Navy; Taro; Midnight
- Materials: 97% Bamboo Rayon, 3% Spandex
- Designs: Solid; also have seasonal & limited edition patterns
- Care: Machine wash cold with like colors. Avoid bleach. Tumble dry low or lay flat.
- Fit: This set features breathable fabric with an elastic waistband and jogger-style fit pants. The top is a long-sleeve crew that’s chic enough for daycare drop-off.
Kyte Baby Women's Jogger Pajama Set in Emerald
Best joggers for loungewear: Lululemon Scuba High-Rise Relaxed Jogger
lululemon.com: $118
Some people have a special section of their dresser dedicated to cute, chic matching pajama sets. But others prefer to sleep in their well-loved, washed-out college t-shirt and oversized sweatpants. If you’re in the latter camp, you’ll love Lululemon’s joggers' thick, cozy fabric. These mostly cotton sweatpants are in heather gray, white, and black and are versatile for sleep, lounging, and even errand running. Plus, they’re ridiculously comfortable. While these tend to get primarily five-star reviews from fans, the length runs on the short side, so order up or invest in a pair of tall socks. Also, reviewers recommend line or air-drying these joggers, since they can stretch out easily.
Specifications:
- Sizes: 0-14
- Colors: Heathered Core Ultra Light Grey, White, Black
- Materials: Rib: 97% Cotton, 3% Elastane, Pockets: 95% Cotton, 5% Elastane, Body: 70% Cotton, 30% Polyester
- Designs: Solid
- Care: Machine wash cold with like colors. Tumble dry low. Do not iron, dry clean or use bleach. Do not bleach; Tumble dry low; Do not iron; Do not dry clean.
- Fit: This jogger sweat is relaxed and oversized in the glutes and thighs. Featuring soft material, you can sleep, work out or run errands.
Best sleep romper: Athleta Nighttime Bliss Sleep V Neck Romper
Nighttime Bliss Sleep V Neck Romper; $64
You don’t need to be a baby to enjoy the comfort of a onesie with this sustainable tencel romper from Athleta. Created from European beech trees, this v-neck style romper is ultra cozy, lightweight, and chic. Many reviewers say it’s comfortable to sleep in, but also appropriate for brunch, running errands or even a work-from-home day.
Athleta is a size-inclusive brand, offering options from XXS to 3X. When you choose this romper, available in three shades, go darker and/or larger to ensure it’s not see-through since some reviewers say it can run transparent if it’s tight against the skin.
One drawback is you can’t adjust the straps, so those with larger chests might not feel as supported. Also, before you head for a night’s worth of slumber in this romper, keep your bladder in mind. Unlike pants that are easy to pull down or a sleepshirt sans pants, rompers are more challenging to get in and out of for that middle-of-the-night potty break.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XXS-3X
- Colors: Dark Sardinia Blue; Deep Burgundy; Black
- Materials: TENCEL™ Modal/Spandex Jersey; SUSTAINABLE: TENCEL™ Modal is a fiber that is produced from European beech trees harvested from sustainable forests where 99% of the raw material comes from certified or controlled sources.
- Designs: Solid
- Care: Machine wash and dry.
- Fit: This romper is sem-fitted, buttery-soft, lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Athleta Nighttime Bliss Sleep V Neck Romper
Best splurge pajamas for women: Eberjey Inez Silk Printed Long PJ Set
$298; Inez Silk Printed Long PJ Set
This machine-washable set from Eberjey is definitely on the higher end, but this fabric's high-quality, expensive feel will make you melt right into bed. Consider investing in these luxe pajamas for special occasions—like your wedding night or honeymoon. You can choose the right hue to match your getaway or big day, available in gorgeous color combinations, like marble rose cloud and Italian rose, delphinium, and champagne.
While the top is relaxed with a collar, the bottom features a high-rise straight-leg pant with an easy-to-adjust elastic waistband. Reviewers speak highly of this wardrobe investment but do note it wrinkles easily and runs big.
Specifications:
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Colors: Marble Rose Cloud/Italian Rose; Mink Puff/Bone; Artist Dot Ivory/Navy; Malachite Jade/Kelp; Stripe Ciel/Ivory; Petite Batik Indigo Blue/Bone; Blossom Bright Orange/Bright Orange; Scarf Dots Delphinium/Champagne
- Materials: 100% Machine Washable Silk
- Designs: Patterned
- Care: Hand wash or machine wash in cold water separately, in delicate cycle. Remove promptly and lay flat to dry. Do not bleach. Mesh wash bag recommended.
- Fit: This set features a relaxed button-up with collar and a high-rise straight-leg pant with an elastic waistband.
Inez Washable Silk Printed Long PJ Set - Marble Rose Cloud/Italian Rose
How we found our recommendations
We analyzed the materials, fit and packaging of all of our products. By fact-checking, personally testing, and scouring hundreds of reviews, we selected our top picks from various retailers. Our comprehensive list covers many common sleep concerns, preferences, and goals.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What are the best fabrics for pajamas?
As with most clothing choices, the best fabrics for pajamas are highly dependent on the individual. When shopping, Dr. Purdy suggests considering how you feel when you sleep. For example, if you have a lot of hot flashes at night, you should wear lightweight, breathable fabric, such as cotton, bamboo, or satin. “Wicking moisture away from the body can allow for a cooler and more comfortable sleeping experience,” she says.
But, if you are a cold-natured sleeper, or if you have many blankets on your bed, you may like to have something a little warmer and insulating, such as flannel or fleece.
What fabrics should shoppers avoid?
According to Dr. Purdy, there are no medical reasons an adult must avoid a particular fabric altogether because it’s dangerous or harmful. She encourages shoppers to make the best choice for their bodies. “If you are uncomfortable sleeping in a certain type of fabric, then try something else,” she says. “There’s no reason why you should feel like you have to stick with a certain fabric or avoid a certain fabric, especially if your sleep quality is suffering.”
What does it mean for a fabric to be breathable?
In some pajama product descriptions, you’ll find the buzzword “breathable.” But what does this mean? Dr. Purdy explains that breathable means the fabric allows for more airflow, which is ideal for those who run hot. “Mesh is very breathable, but thick heavy wool is not breathable,” she continues. “Some people like to have breathable fabric, especially if they are on the hotter, natured side, which means they may be predisposed to sweating at night.”
How should you wash and care for pajamas?
No matter what fabric you choose, ensure you take excellent care of your pajamas so they last. Dr. Purdy suggests reading the fabric care instructions, usually found on an inside label. “Some pajamas can shrink and be less comfortable. Others may need to be washed with like colors or separate, and sometimes they even need to be hang dried,” she says. “With all fabrics, including pajamas, and heading to the manufacturer's recommendations of how to best care for the fabric, ensure that the integrity of the fabric holds up over time and that your investment is long-lasting.”
How often should a person change their pajamas?
That depends! And again, Dr. Purdy says there’s no medical reason for this. “Some people like the feeling of fresh, clean pajamas every day. Other people may choose to wear them for a few days before changing. Neither one is wrong,” she says. “If they’re visibly soiled, or if you have sweat, then you may like to change them more often.”
What are the best pajamas for each season?
There’s no pair-fits-all solution for pajamas by the season. This is because we all have different experiences and body reactions while asleep. As Dr. Purdy says, someone may be hotter or colder-natured, regardless of the season. “Sometimes, the internal temperature of the house has more bearing on what clothing someone may like to wear to bed than the season itself,” she explains.
Generally speaking, though, silk, mesh, cotton and jersey materials offer a cooling experience. Fleece and flannel are more insulated, so they keep you warm.
Is silk or satin better for pajamas?
Dr. Purdy says silk and satin—traditionally more expensive fabrics—are generally very light and provide a cooler experience. Many people appreciate the feeling of them, but that doesn’t mean it results in better sleep. “Personal preference is something to consider, even more so than medical, seasonal, or brand recommendations,” she says. “It’s about feeling good and optimizing the quality of your sleep.”
The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.