Best Deep Pocket Sheets for Thick Mattresses (2026 Guide)

Modern mattresses are thicker than ever. Between memory foam layers, pillow tops, cooling gel infusions, and the increasingly popular mattress toppers, the average mattress height has grown from 9-10 inches a decade ago to 12-16 inches today. Some luxury mattresses top 18 inches.

Standard sheets are designed for mattresses up to about 12 inches deep. If your mattress is thicker, you need deep pocket sheets — and finding quality ones is not always straightforward.

What Are Deep Pocket Sheets?

Deep pocket sheets have fitted sheets with extra-tall side panels and additional elastic to accommodate thicker mattresses. Where standard fitted sheets have a pocket depth of 10-14 inches, deep pocket sheets typically measure 15-17 inches, and extra deep pocket sheets reach 18-22 inches.

The pocket depth is measured from the top surface of the sheet to the bottom of the side panel where the elastic sits. For a proper fit, your pocket depth should exceed your mattress height by at least 2 inches.

Who Needs Deep Pocket Sheets?

You need deep pocket sheets if you have any of the following:

• Pillow-top mattress: These add 2-4 inches to standard mattress height
• Memory foam mattress: Many are 12-14 inches, with premium models reaching 16+
• Hybrid mattress: Coil + foam combinations are often 13-16 inches
• Mattress topper: Adding 2-4 inches of memory foam or featherbed on top
• Adjustable air mattress: These can be extra thick due to the air chamber construction

Best Materials for Deep Pocket Sheets

Cotton Percale

Percale's crisp structure holds its shape well in deep pocket configurations. The fabric has enough body to stay tucked under a thick mattress without sagging. Our Royal Classic percale fits mattresses up to 16 inches with a secure all-around elastic band.

Egyptian Cotton

The combination of strong, long-staple fibers and quality elastic makes Egyptian cotton an excellent deep pocket option. The fabric is strong enough to handle the extra tension without tearing or wearing at the corners. Our Royal Heritage Egyptian cotton fits mattresses up to 18 inches — among the deepest pockets in our lineup.

Bamboo Viscose

Bamboo's natural stretch and recovery make it inherently well-suited for deep pocket sheets. The fabric conforms to the mattress shape and springs back after washing. Our Royal Breeze bamboo accommodates mattresses up to 17 inches.

Sateen Cotton

Sateen's smooth, heavy drape helps deep pocket sheets stay in place. The fabric's weight works in its favor here, keeping the sheet pulled snugly over thick mattresses. Our Royal Luxe sateen fits up to 17 inches.

What to Look for in Deep Pocket Sheets

• All-around elastic: This is non-negotiable. Corner-only elastic will not hold on a thick mattress. The elastic should run the entire perimeter of the fitted sheet.
• Reinforced corners: The corners bear the most stress. Look for double-stitched or reinforced corner seams.
• Exact pocket depth measurements: Avoid sheets that only say "deep pocket" without specifying the actual depth in inches.
• Quality elastic: Cheap elastic loses its stretch within months. Quality sheets use wide, durable elastic that maintains tension for years.
• Pre-shrunk fabric: Cotton sheets can shrink 3-5% on the first wash. Pre-shrunk or Sanforized fabric maintains the pocket depth after washing.

Measuring Your Mattress Height

Place a rigid ruler or measuring tape vertically against the side of your mattress, from the base to the highest point of the top surface. Include any mattress topper or pad. Write down this number and add 2-3 inches — that is the minimum pocket depth you should look for.

For a comprehensive guide to all sheet dimensions, visit our size guide.

Common Deep Pocket Sheet Mistakes

Buying sheets that are too deep: If your pocket depth is much larger than your mattress height, the excess fabric bunches up under the mattress. More is not always better — match the depth closely.

Ignoring material quality: Deep pocket sheets need stronger fabric because the fitted sheet is under more tension. Cheap, thin fabric will tear at the corners faster.

Forgetting about shrinkage: If your sheets are a perfect fit before washing, they may be too tight after. Always check whether the sheets are pre-shrunk and wash on cold for the first cycle.

Browse our full catalog to find sheets in your exact size and pocket depth. Every product page includes the precise pocket depth so there are no surprises.