Types of Pajamas: Your Go-To Guide to Sleepwear (2024)

Types of Pajamas: Your Go-To Guide to Sleepwear (1)

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

Types of Pajamas: Your Go-To Guide to Sleepwear (2024)

FAQs

What is the healthiest thing to wear to bed? ›

Cotton is the ideal fabric for bedtime, as it's both lightweight and breathable, helping you to stay comfy. Linen is both breathable and absorbent, although generally not the most comfortable fabric to wear at night due to its lack of softness.

What is the difference between sleepwear and pajamas? ›

Pajamas are meant for sleep only

Whereas pajamas are for wearing while you're in bed if you're not otherwise too hot, you can wear loungewear if you have guests over, or if you need to run a quick errand and don't want to put on some more formal attire, as suggested by Fashion Mommy.

How many pajamas do I need? ›

Depending on your laundry schedule, you might need more than 5 pajama sets. But for most people, 3 to 4 pajama tops and bottoms are more than enough to meet everyday needs. Keep in mind that you don't need to wash your pajamas too often. You should wash them only when you need to.

What kind of pajamas do you wear to bed? ›

Types of Pajamas
  • Sweatpants & T-shirts.
  • Shorts & tank tops.
  • Thermal underwear.
  • Nightgown/nightie.
  • Oversized sleep shirt.
  • Boxers/gym shorts.
  • Romper/onesie/footie pajamas.
  • Lingerie/negligee.
Jun 9, 2022

What are the best type of Pyjamas? ›

Consider flannel, fleece, thermal cotton, or silk pajamas in cold, arid climates. While silk is difficult to clean and more expensive than the others, it does moderate temperature well.

What do most females wear to bed? ›

While we don't know many women who would willingly wear a bra to sleep, some of the most common clothing items worn to bed by the ladies are underpants, socks and even undershirts.

Is it healthy to sleep without undies on? ›

Wearing underwear keeps that moisture close to your genitals. This allows bacteria and yeast to grow, which can cause infection and other problems. If you are prone to yeast infections, vagin*l infections or vagin*l irritation, going commando at bedtime could be a great—and healthy—choice.

Should you wear a bra to bed? ›

There's nothing wrong with wearing a bra while you sleep if that's what you're comfortable with. Sleeping in a bra will not make a girl's breasts perkier or prevent them from getting saggy. And it will not stop breasts from growing or cause breast cancer.

What makes a good sleepwear? ›

Fabrics that aren't breathable can cause irritation, bacteria buildup, overheating, and overall discomfort. While choosing a loose-fitting and comfortable pajama is important for breathability, so is the fabric. Natural materials such as cotton, fleece, silk, and linen can all be great choices for pajamas.

What is women's sleepwear called? ›

A nightgown, nightie or nightdress is a loosely hanging item of nightwear, and is commonly worn by women and girls. A nightgown is made from cotton, silk, satin, or nylon and may be decorated with lace appliqués or embroidery at the bust and hem.

Do you wear different pajamas every night? ›

For pajamas, they suggest washing them after three or four wears. That's about two pairs of pajamas a week. While this standard is a recommendation, it's not the general norm.

Should pajamas be tight or loose? ›

Young children can wiggle themselves out of their ill-fitting pajamas, which increases their risk of suffocation or other unintentional injuries. Loose-fitting pajamas are also considered a fire hazard. If your child is wearing snug-fit pajamas, it is less likely that they will have a fire-related accident.

How often should pajamas be washed? ›

The Experts Weigh In

The American Cleaning Institute, however, is a little more lenient with its suggestions, recommending that pajamas are washed after three or four wears. Good Housekeeping magazine says once a week is the longest you should go.

What kind of sleepwear do guys like? ›

Every guy wants his lady to wear something sexy to bed and frankly, your basic pyjamas won't really do the thing.
...
So here are some sexy little nightwear, that guys think about what you wear to bed.
  • An Oversized Tee. ...
  • Babydoll. ...
  • Booty Shorts & Tank Tops. ...
  • Bustier. ...
  • Thong. ...
  • Fancy Slip. ...
  • Nighty & Robe. ...
  • Sheer Nighty.
Dec 31, 2022

What is the most breathable material for pajamas? ›

Linen is a go-to fabric for hot sleepers since it's breathable and moisture wicking, so even though Parachute's linen pants and top are long sleeved, they'll still keep you cool even if you're sleeping in summer heat. (You can alternatively buy linen shorts or a linen tank if you prefer no sleeves.)

How do I choose nightwear? ›

So, choose carefully and pay attention to the below details:
  1. Consider your body style & fit. No matter how comforting your nightwear be, if it does not keep up with your body style and fit, it is of no use. ...
  2. Focus on its maintenance. ...
  3. Consider weather condition. ...
  4. Do not forget to focus on the length.
May 1, 2021

What pyjamas are best for night sweats? ›

Cotton and linen are great breathable fabrics that will help prevent overheating throughout the night, while plant-derived viscose fabrics like Tencel modal and bamboo work to regulate temperature and wick moisture from the skin.

What are old fashioned pajamas called? ›

Before pajamas, many people slept in their undergarments rather than wearing an outfit specifically created for rest. Sleepwear during the Victorian age was usually referred to as 'night clothes' and often consisted of ankle-length nightshirts or nightgowns and floor-length robes.

What pyjamas keep you warm? ›

Which Type of Pajamas are Most Warm? There are many different things to wear for a great night's sleep. Flannel, fleece, thermal, cotton and silk are all great types of pajamas for cold weather.

What outfit turns you on the most in a girl? ›

Backless dress or top

This outfit gives him a taste of how sensual you are and still stays super elegant. If you go for a top, wear some unripped jeans with heels, boots, sandals, or fashion sneakers. For a dress, choose just one kind of statement jewelry and a pair of solid toned heels.

Where should your bed not face? ›

Positioning your bed in line with the door is the worst possible position, according to the principles of Feng shui. People who practice Feng shui call it the 'dead man's position' or the 'coffin position' because the feet or head face the door and resemble how we carry the dead through open doors from the house.

Why should you not sleep on your right side? ›

Reflux and heartburn: If you suffer from heartburn, sleeping on your right side can make symptoms worse, Salas says. That's true for people who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and for people who have heartburn for other reasons, such as pregnant women. Flip to your left side to cool the burn.

Should breasts be hard or soft? ›

Young women usually have dense breasts because their milk systems might be needed for feeding babies. Sometimes this thickness is felt as a lump or a mass of tissue. As women age, their milk systems shrink and are replaced by fat. By menopause, most women's breasts are completely soft.

How can I prevent my breasts from sagging? ›

How can you prevent or treat saggy breasts?
  1. Manage a healthy weight. You don't necessarily need to lose weight, nor do you need to gain weight. ...
  2. Find a well-fitting, comfortable bra. ...
  3. Don't smoke, or quit smoking. ...
  4. Get a hormone test. ...
  5. Carefully consider pregnancy.
  6. Try a pectoral muscle workout. ...
  7. Get plastic surgery.

Why we should not wear socks to bed? ›

Sleeping with socks on may not be for you if you have circulatory issues, swelling of the feet, or other issues that could potentially increase the likelihood of socks restricting blood flow to your legs and feet. As always, make sure to talk to your doctor about if sleeping with socks on is right for you.

What fabric is most comfortable to sleep in? ›

100% cotton is the go-to fabric for sheets and pajamas. High-quality cotton (such as that with a high thread count) is soft, smooth, and lightweight. And for those who prefer natural fabrics to synthetic ones, cotton is a budget-friendly option.

How would you describe sleepwear? ›

garments, as nightgowns or pajamas, worn for sleeping or at bedtime.

What is a full body pajama called? ›

Typically, but not always, the blanket sleeper consists of a loose-fitting, one-piece garment of blanket-like material, usually fleece, enclosing the entire body except for the head and hands.

What do Americans call pajamas? ›

Generally, 'pajamas' is the preferred spelling in American English, whereas 'pyjamas' is the more common spelling used in English through out the rest of the world. However when it comes to the crunch the most confused country is Canada!

What are pajamas called in USA? ›

Pajamas (US) or pyjamas (Commonwealth) (/pəˈdʒɑːməz, pɪ-, -ˈdʒæ-/), sometimes colloquially shortened to PJs, jammies, jam-jams, or in South Asia night suits, are several related types of clothing worn as nightwear or while lounging or performing remote work from home.

Is it OK to wear pajamas two days in a row? ›

If you want to be safe and hygienic, listen to the experts' guidance—approximately two to three days before washing pajamas and shower at night to extend their wash cycle. But ultimately, use your common sense. If it smells funny or has mysterious stains, it's probably time to wash those pajamas.

How often should you wash clothes? ›

Shirts and blouses: after 1-2 wearings. Dress pants or slacks: after 2-3 wearings. Jeans: after 4-5 wearings. Sweaters: up to 6 wearings, if worn with an undershirt; 1-2 wearings if worn without an undershirt.

Why do my Pyjamas smell? ›

Here are just some of the reasons why your clothes may not smell so fresh: Going for a jog or running for the bus – sweat can contribute towards smelly clothes. Leaving wet laundry in the washing machine means the fabric can't 'breathe' Leaving wet or damp laundry in the tumble dryer will also cause clothing to smell.

Should you wash your pajamas before wearing them? ›

The conclusion is clear: According to dermatologists, clothing manufacturers, vintage dealers, and common sense, it's smart—and highly recommended—to wash your new clothing items before wearing them.

How do you wear pajamas as an outfit? ›

Especially when we're in the middle of what feels like a bad episode of a dystopian TV show.
  1. Layer Your PJ Slip Over A White T-Shirt. ...
  2. Top Off Your PJs With A Blazer. ...
  3. Wear A PJ Shrug As A Kimono Over White On White. ...
  4. Pair A Printed PJ Bottom With A Solid Colour PJ Top. ...
  5. Add A Belt To An Oversized T-Shirt For A PJ Dress.
Jul 24, 2021

How often should you change your bed sheets? ›

Why do we even need to change our bedsheets? To cut to the chase, Dr Browning says we should be changing our sheets once a week, or every two weeks at the most. Hygiene is a big factor, and one of the reasons is sweat. If you've ever tried sleeping in a heatwave, you'll know how difficult it can be.

How often should you wash your hair? ›

How Much Should You Wash? For the average person, every other day, or every 2 to 3 days, without washing is generally fine. “There is no blanket recommendation. If hair is visibly oily, scalp is itching, or there's flaking due to dirt,” those are signs it's time to shampoo, Goh says.

How often should you change your sheets? ›

Most people should wash their sheets once per week. If you don't sleep on your mattress every day, you may be able to stretch this to once every two weeks or so. Some people should wash their sheets even more often than once a week.

Should you wear pajamas in bed? ›

How Pajamas Improve Sleep Quality and Health. Although some scientists recommend sleeping in the nude, pajamas have several benefits like keeping your body warm. Pajamas cover your legs completely and protect your legs from the cold throughout the night.

What do you wear with pajamas in public? ›

Wear a Short Robe or PJ Shirt as a Top

A button-down pajama top with a wide collar and piping can look sophisticated yet casual when paired with blue jeans. Leave the top of your pajama set unbuttoned to reveal a crop top underneath.

Why do adults wear pajamas? ›

Pajamas are not just for comfort and providing quality sleep, but they are also an act of self-care. Investing in real, quality pajamas shows you value comfort and the importance of sleep as a recovery tool for both mental and physical health.

What is the difference between sleepwear and loungewear? ›

In simple terms, loungewear should be worn during the day at home or when running quick errands. Sleepwear on the other hand should only be worn at bedtime, hence the term “sleep” in sleepwear.

What is the difference between pjs and loungewear? ›

In short, pajamas are for sleep, and loungewear is for lounging — even if your definition of lounging means “running errands comfortably” or “sitting outside chatting with the neighbors.” Think of what lounging means for you, then make sure your loungewear is a step up from pajamas.

What is Japanese sleepwear called? ›

Jinbei are usually worn as a form of nightwear or house clothes, and are considered very informal clothing. Normally, jinbei are typically only worn outside of the house when travelling short distances, such as to go on a local errand, collecting the mail or while shopping.

Why good sleepwear is important? ›

Additionally, sleepwear significantly enhances the quality of sleep of a person. Its breathable fabrics such as cotton, silk, fleece, linen put you in the right mood for relaxing and sleeping. They also play an instrumental role in regulating the temperature of the body while sleeping.

Why are night clothes called pajamas? ›

The etymology of the word "pyjamas"

The word "pajama" has its origin in Hindi: "pae jama" or "pai jama", which literally translates as "garment for the legs" and dates back to the Ottoman Empire of the 13th century. Pajamas were originally for them loose pants or boxers with a simple cord to tie them.

Do you change pjs every night? ›

The experts at the American Cleaning Institute (ACI) have detailed a helpful guide for how often we should wash our clothes. For pajamas, they suggest washing them after three or four wears. That's about two pairs of pajamas a week.

What are pjs with feet called? ›

footies or feeties. footed sleeper. footed pajamas (variants include foot/footy/footed/footsie/feet/feety/feeted/feetsie and may use colloquial terms for pajamas such as pjs or jammies) pajamas with (the) feet (in/on them)

What should girls wear while sleeping? ›

Pajamas style for women is the best comfort staple. Pajama styles come in different colors, prints, and patterns making them not only comfortable but also snazzy. Pajama sets are pretty versatile allowing you to mix and match and create your own night style statement.

What are menopause pajamas? ›

The most common menopause symptoms are night sweats and hot flashes. With over 75 million menopausal women, there is a lot of heat of excess heat out there. Menopause pajamas help make those hot night more comfortable by drawing moisture away from the body and drying quickly so the wearer stays cool and dry all night.

What are Buttflap pajamas called? ›

Drop-Seat (Drop-Seat Pajamas)

It may also be referred to as a butt flap or trap-door.

What are animal pajamas called? ›

Kigurumis (kee-goo-ROO-mee) are the onesies you wish you'd known about. We love the fact that you can never take yourself too seriously when you're wearing a hilarious animal costume. The Kigurumi craze (unsurprisingly) originated in Japan, and the word means something like "wearing stuffed toy".

How do you wear a Samue? ›

7. How Do I Wear Samue? Samue are the easiest thing in the world to put on! They're loose-fitting so just slip on the pants, and tie them at the waist, then tie the jacket closed with a knot on the side.

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