Torn Sheets

ThemeOne

I've just found a tear in the middle of another pair of cotton sheets. It's annoying as they're not even that old or worn.

Given that I can't sew and don't know anyone who can, is there a way to salvage them? It seems such a waste to throw them away (especially as it's a kingsize flat sheet).

For the future, is there a sheet fabric that's comfortable but more hard wearing?

theoretica

Sewing to repair a tear can be really simple and needle and thread are cheap. You have little to loose by trying as the sheets are already torn.

You can also get iron on repair tape.

If you do decide to get rid of them many charity shops get money for rags and there are the bins at supermarkets.

Mojisola

Have you worked out why they are tearing before spending out on new sheets?

Emm-in-a-pickle

If you can`t sew, and can`t think of any acquaintance who can sew, how about looking for a local business that does `repairs and alterations`? There must be some in your area, and it should not be expensive. Try your local newspaper or google.
(I`m in a North Wales town, I know of 2 shops and a dry cleaners that would undertake this jop).

ThemeOne

theoretica wrote: »

Sewing to repair a tear can be really simple and needle and thread are cheap. You have little to loose by trying as the sheets are already torn.

I'll give it a go - I guess I can hardly make it any worse!

Horseunderwater

Where are they tearing? My OH has really tough hardened heels & that is always where mine go. I got some cotton percale sheets off Ebay & they are smooth & so far hardwearing. Also do you use the old double sheeting system. Mum used to put new sheet under & the previous under one onto top. Seemed to make them last longer, not sure why. Matress protectors could be used instead.

FairyPrincessk

If the tear is in the middle of a flat sheet, you can do what is called 'turning' a sheet 'sides to middle.' Basically, you cut the sheet down the middle, then re-sew the less worn edges together and hem the worn edges. The sheet will be a bit narrower because of the seam allowance and hem allowance, but how much depends on how you do it. Depending on how it tore this could extend the life of it. Simply mending the tear is an option, but if it happened because the sheet has worn thin then it isn't likely to hold up well since it will stress the fibres around it. And iron on would be sturdiest but is unlikely to be particularly comfortable.

If you want 100% cotton sheets then look for higher thread counts and a longer cotton fibre. For example, pima cotton has longer fibres and will be sturdier and less likely to pill or tear. However, bear in mind that cotton sheets will almost inevitably have a shorter lifespan than those with a bit of polyester mixed in. Personally I prefer all cotton and just try to find other uses for worn sheets but it depends on what you value most.

allybee101

Fairy's mention of turning a sheet sides to middle is probably the best idea if you can't afford new sheets. The sheet becomes a bit narrower, but is still useable.
Keeping toenails trimmed may help too.

Polycotton are more durable than cotton only so perhaps give them a
try and see what happens? Flannel sheets for winter might be a good investment too. They're thicker and Napguard in particular are v durable.

Bella56

Agree about polycotton sheets lasting longer. We also get deep-fitted sheets so I don't have to pull them so tight to get them on, once they've been washed a few times most fitted sheets shrink a bit and really have to be pulled hard and are more likely to rip.

whichwhydoIturn

When I had worn sheets , I have been knowen to cut it into 4 rectangles , ready for a cot /pram

ThemeOne

The tear is pretty much in the middle, so not sure how it happened - the fabric is not even particularly worn in that spot.

Anyway, will have a go at repairing, and for the future probably just try poly-cotton.