13 Different Types of Pajamas for Men and Women
Getting the best night’s sleep requires more than just a good bedtime routine. What you wear to bed can also play a big part in your quality of sleep. But discovering the perfect type of pajamas can be easier said than done with so many different fabrics and styles available. To help you understand all of your lounge and sleepwear options, we’ve rounded up the 13 different types of pajamas and their common materials. Explore the following types of sleepwear by fabric and style—a good night’s sleep depends on it!
Types of Pajamas by Fabric
What is the best fabric for pajama? It all depends on how hot or cold you like to be while sleeping. To help you discover your dream comfort level, we’ve broken down the main types of pajama materials to help you decide which fabric is best for you.
1. Cotton Pajamas
One of the best types of fabric for pajamas is cotton. Cotton is durable, breathable, soft to the touch, and remains cool against your skin, making for comfortable and sound sleep. Lightweight cotton pajamas are the best fabric for sleepwear and anyone who wants to stay cool during sleep and prefers a little bit of a stretch in their clothing.
Our Cool Cotton fabric collection uses an exclusive, breathable smart fabric that wicks away moisture to dry fast and cool quickly.
Weight: Lightweight
Warmth: Cool
2. Fleece Pajamas
Another popular type of pajama fabric is flannel. Flannel is best for cold nights as its fibers hold heat and will keep you warm. Fleece is ultra-durable and is great for camping trips or anywhere you might be rougher on your clothing.
Fleece pajamas are best for anyone who values warmth and durability, plus they usually are extra cozy sleepwear and still lightweight..
Weight: Lightweight
Warmth: Warm
3. Flannel Pajamas
Flannel is a warm and wool-like fabric that’s best for anyone who wants an extra layer of warmth. Flannel tends to be heavier than fleece or cotton and can last for many years.
Weight: Medium to heavyweight
Warmth: Very Warm
4. Linen Pajamas
Linen pajamas are ultra-lightweight, breathable, and get more comfortable with every wash. Linen fabric is a popular choice for bedding and sleepwear as it is a lightweight texture and makes it comfortable for warm sleepers.Whether you sleep in your underwear or not, linen pajamas will surely make you feel as comfortable as can be as you lay in bed.
Weight: Lightweight
Warmth: Cool
5. Silk Pajamas
Silk pajamas are hypoallergenic and great for anyonewhose skin is easily bothered by harsher fabrics like flannel or fleece. They are shiny and luxurious in appearance and keep you cool during the summer months and warm during the winter months.Pair silk pajamas with some bedtime mindfulness exercises and you'll be fast asleep in no time.
Silk is also known to prevent the effects of aging as it doesn’t absorb moisture and reduces friction between your skin and the bed. This causes fewer creases to appear on your skin after sleep than there would be if you slept in cotton or flannel pajamas.
Weight: Lightweight
Warmth: Cool
6. Satin Pajamas
Another common fabric for pajamas is satin. Despite their similar appearance, the biggest difference between silk and satin is that satin is a weave and not a natural fiber, whereas silk is a natural fiber fabric. Since satin is a synthetic fabric, this makes it more affordable than silk.
Satin can be machine washed making it easier to maintain a great option for everyday wear.
Weight: Lightweight
Warmth: Cool
Types of Sleepwear by Style
Now that you are familiar with the different types of pajama fabrics, explore the different styles that can help you enhance your quality of sleep. Peruse the types of PJs by style below.
7. Sleep Shirts
One of the most important aspects of sleepwear is a loose fit. In addition to the metabolic effects of sleeping, removing tight clothing improves blood circulation and helps your muscles feel rested.
Sleeping shirts or dresses are a perfect type of pajama, for anyone who wants their attire to be loose and comfortable. For women, they can look more like a button-up dress or a T-shirt style. For men, sleeping shirts can be long or short (whatever your preference) to allow for ultimate comfort. Either way, they are meant to fit loosely and can be worn with a bottom or just underwear.If your sleep shirt is cozy enough, you can even try wearing it without a bra.
Sleeping shirts are commonly available in cotton or fleece.
Weight: Lightweight
Warmth: Cool
8. Sleep Sets
Sleeping sets are coordinating top and bottom pajamas made of the same material. They can be a tank, short or long-sleeved piece on top, or short cropped or long pants on the bottom. They are available for men and women and can be made of cotton, flannel, fleece, satin, and more.
Weight: Medium to heavyweight
Warmth: Warm
9. Pajama Pants
Pajama pants can also be their own category of sleepwear as many wear warm fleece or cotton pants on the bottom with a lighter or heavier shirt on top. Pajama pants can vary by fabric and pattern.
Weight: Medium to heavyweight
Warmth: Warm
10. Robes
Robes are a loose-fitting garment that is usually worn over pajamas or right out of the shower. It has long sleeves and a sash to wrap and tie around your body making them secure and covering. Common robe materials are satin, terry cloth, cotton, fleece and silk.
Weight: Heavyweight
Warmth: Very warm
11. Onesie
Onesies are another common type of pajama. Commonly embellished in holiday patterns and fashion, onesies can also be great all year long. They tend to be made out of knit cotton, fleece, and flannel.
Weight: Heavyweight
Warmth: Very warm
12. Nighties
Nighties are nightgowns made with less fabric, in short, low cut dress styles. Nighties are often made with very lightweight materials, such as silk and satin. Nighties may be embellished with lace and are often sheer and transparent.
Weight: Lightweight
Warmth: Cool
13. Sweats
Sweatpants are loose, soft trousers with an elastic or drawstring waist that are commonly made of cotton or fleece.They can also be considered loungewear, because when it comes to how to wear sweatpants,many feel comfortable wearing them outside.This is because they are more durable and tailored than normal pajamas. Sometimes, quality self care involves spending the whole day in some cozy sweats.
Weight: Heavyweight
Warmth: Very warm
Now that we’ve covered the different types of pajamas and pajama fabric material, we hope you will find the perfect sleeping attire to fit your needs. Add luxury and comfort into your life by leveling up your sleepwear today. Take a look at our men's loungewear and women's loungewear collection as well!
