Types of Pajamas: Your Go-To Guide to Sleepwear

When it comes to bedtime attire, there are a variety of different types of pajamas available to suit everyone's preferences and styles. Whether you prefer to lounge in comfort or feel put-together for a cozy night's sleep, there’s something for everyone. 

Not sure where to start? TomboyX has you covered. Read on to discover our comprehensive guide to sleepwear. 

What Are the Different Types of Pajamas?

Although there are many, here are some of the most common types of pajamas to keep in mind:

Traditional Pajamas

This classic option offers the perfect blend of comfort and style, making them great for all occasions, from lazy days at home to formal gatherings with friends and family. They typically feature two separate pieces (a top and bottom) in a variety of fabrics, such as cotton, flannel, silk, or even wool. These traditional sets may come in solid colors or fun prints like plaid, cozy flannel, and stripes. 

Onesies 

Perfect for kids but equally appealing to adults, onesie pajamas offer head-to-toe coverage in one easy piece. They often feature zippers down the front or snaps on the legs for easy access and provide comfortable warmth throughout the night.

Onesies can be found in numerous designs, such as animals, superheroes, cartoon characters, and even monsters like our deliciously soft and dreamy TomboyX Monster Mash Onesie.

Thermal Sets

Thermal sets offer a lightweight alternative to traditional pajamas while still providing superior insulation against cold temperatures. Made from fabrics like cotton blended with synthetic fibers like lycra or spandex, these two-piece sets keep you warm without feeling bulky or weighted down by heavy clothing layers. 

Long Johns 

Long johns are an ideal choice for those who don't want their feet encased in fabric but still want additional coverage for their lower half during especially chilly nights. Similar to thermal sets but lacking the top layer, long johns consist of only a bottom portion made from soft materials like wool or cotton. This garment keeps your legs warm without trapping heat beneath them. 

Loungewear Sets

Loungewear pajama sets combine fashion with function by offering relaxed fits that look great whether you're lounging around at home or out running errands on a cool day. There are several types of loungewear styles, including joggers with drawstring waists, flannels with snap closures, camisoles with lace detailing, and much more.

Nightshirts

Nightshirts are loose-fitting shirts that come down to the knees and can be worn as both sleepwear and loungewear. They come in a range of materials, such as cotton, silk, and flannel. 

Silky nightshirts are perfect if you want something lightweight yet comfortable to wear around the house during colder months. These pajamas also offer more freedom of movement than traditional two-piece sets. 

What Is the Best Fabric for Sleepwear and Pajamas?

The comforting comfort of pajamas is something that can't be understated. The right fabric can make all the difference in having a comfortable, peaceful night's sleep. When it comes to choosing pajamas, there are many categories of materials to consider. 

Now, here are some of the most popular fabrics used for sleepwear: 

Cotton

Cotton is one of the most common and beloved materials used in pajamas due to its lightweight and breathable qualities. It's also super soft and durable, making it an ideal fabric for cozy loungewear. 

Cotton is also machine washable and wrinkle-resistant, making it an easy choice for those who don't have time or energy to iron their clothes. Cotton can come in different weaves like jersey, flannel, or satin, depending on the desired level of warmth and coziness.

Cotton production can be sustainable too! Look for organic cotton in items like the Eco Fleece Hoodie that has been certified by OEKO-Tex. 

French Terry

We love cotton in all its forms. Cotton serves as the base for one of our favorites — French terry. At the end of a long day at school, work, or the gym, nothing says “chill out and decompress” more than pulling on a French terry crew and climbing into bed.

Silk

Silk has a luxurious feel that makes it perfect for sleeping in style. Although slightly more expensive than cotton, silk provides a lightweight layer of insulation against both cold and hot temperatures while still allowing your skin to breathe so you won't overheat during the night. 

Silk is also hypoallergenic, perfect for those with allergies or sensitive skin conditions. Additionally, silk is wrinkle-resistant and requires minimal maintenance aside from occasional washing and drying on a low-heat setting (preferably in a delicates/mesh bag). This makes this fabric an ideal choice for busy people who want to look professional even while they’re sleeping.

Fleece

Fleece is a soft synthetic fabric with excellent insulating properties that make it great for keeping warm without feeling suffocated by layers of clothing. This material is available in various styles ranging from lightweight microfleece to heavier-weight polar fleece varieties that offer superior insulation even in cold climates. 

Fleece doesn’t require much care either — just regular machine washes on a gentle cycle will keep your pajamas looking new even after multiple uses! This fabric also dries quickly; you won’t have to wait long before getting back into your cozy bedding once you’ve finished washing your garments. 

Flannel

Flannel is another great choice when looking for comfortable yet stylish sleepwear. This thick cotton fabric provides extra warmth but still allows air to circulate so that you won’t overheat during the nighttime hours.

Flannel also comes in various colors and patterns, giving you an opportunity to express your personal style even while snuggling up in bed. When cared for properly, the flannel remains virtually unchanged after each cleaning session (wash it on the cold setting).

Hint: a plaid flannel shirt is an evergreen gender-neutral trend, and we love it. 

Rayon

Rayon combines the softness and breathability of cotton with greater stretchability than other fabrics like silk or wool. It’s an excellent option when searching for comfortable sleepwear with plenty of movement room throughout the night (in case of pillow fights or late-night adventures). Rayon isn’t quite as sturdy as other fabrics but can still last through years worth of wear and tear.

Although rayon may be slightly more expensive than cotton or silk alternatives, its durability and versatile nature make this fabric an excellent choice when searching for quality sleepwear that will keep you warm and cozy throughout those chilly winter nights.

Any Final Tips?

Sleepwear is not just something you put on before bed. It can be stylish, comfortable, and even make a statement.

Here are some tips to help you choose the best sleepwear for yourself:

Tip #1: Comfort Is Key

When selecting sleepwear, consider comfort above all else. You want to look good, but that doesn't mean sacrificing comfort in the process. 

Before making a purchase, make sure your sleepwear is made of breathable materials like cotton or bamboo. That way, you don’t overheat at night and end up tossing and turning instead of sleeping peacefully. 

Look for styles that fit loosely with elastic waistbands so that there isn’t any pressure on your stomach or abdomen area as you snooze.

If you get too hot or cold easily, try wearing light layers or layering different pieces of clothing to adjust your temperature as needed throughout the night.

Tip #2: Consider Your Climate

Depending on where you live, the climate can play an important role in choosing your sleepwear. 

If you live in a hot climate, opt for lightweight pajamas made from natural fibers like cotton or rayon for maximum breathability and cooling comfort. If you tend to get cold easily, on the other hand, choose items like flannel pajamas and robes to stay cozy through the night. 

Layering items like t-shirts beneath flannels can also provide extra warmth if needed. 

Tip #3: Mix & Match Your Sleepwear

Having a few different options available when getting dressed for bed can not only add variety to your wardrobe but also give you extra flexibility should temperatures change throughout the night. Investing in separates (tops and bottoms) made of lightweight material allows you to mix and match according to your specific needs while still offering plenty of comfort — perfect for those who tend to fluctuate between hot/cold often during their sleep cycle! 

The Final Word

The perfect pair of pajamas can make all the difference in the world when it comes to getting a good night's sleep. With so many different types, sizes, and styles of pajamas to choose from, you can find the perfect fit for you and your unique needs. 

With TomboyX, we have a range of gender-neutral pajamas and sleepwear that is comfortable, fashionable, and durable. So go ahead and take a look around; you're sure to find something that suits your unique taste. Shop our selection of pajamas today and get the restful sleep you deserve!

Sources:

What's that stuff? Wrinkle-Free Cotton | Cen ACS

Influence of silk clothing therapy in patients with atopic dermatitis | PMC

Stages of Sleep: What Happens in a Sleep Cycle | Sleep Foundation