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As I’ve written before, I am that annoying person who only sleeps in a pajama set. On top of making me feel put-together, there’s something ritualistic about it that cues my brain that it’s time to relax and wind down for bed. Because of this, I’ve tested out pretty much every brand you can think of. Here are the ones that I think are genuinely worth the money and wash well.
Looking to get more restful sleep? Check out our Sleep Awards.
The house pants I want in every color…
Never underestimate a good pair of pajama pants. This multiuse pair from Free People is made of a soft cotton. They’re pull-on in style, with a drawstring waistband, so they’re extra-comfortable. But my favorite detail of all is the gathered ankles, which means they won’t ride up when laying underneath covers.
A waffle set that’s a steal…
A few weeks ago, the tee in this set was on sale for $8, so I jumped on the bandwagon quickly. I love that this waffle set is short-sleeved, so it’ll keep you warm without overheating. The shorts have spacious pockets with an elasticized, drawstring waist and the top is so simple-yet-stylish, you can wear it with jeans.
And an Old Navy dupe…
Understandable if spending at least $100 on pajamas is not in the cards. A major PSA: Old Navy basically has a line of dupes for Cozyland, including this romper. While the material is a combination of polyester and spandex, it’s soft and eerily similar. This is another solid option if you run hot at night.
The ultimate classy pajama set…
Whenever I wear my Petite Plume pajamas, I feel the most put-together. The brand was founded by a former CIA officer looking to create a pajama line made without harsh chemicals. These are some of the softest I own, and while they’re pricey, they’re worth every penny. With every wash, they haven’t randomly shrunken or changed shape. Instead they’ve gotten softer. These would make an incredible gift for just about anyone. PS: Prince George is a fan, too.
A brand that’s deeply underrated…
Justice for PJ Salvage. They’re one of my go-to brands for pajamas and loungewear, and they don’t get the love they deserve. On top of having a more whimsical collection of prints (these are pajamas you’ll only want to wear at home), they don’t require multiple washes to feel soft and cozy, and they’re lightweight while still providing warmth. My go-to set is this boxer style with a longsleeve.
A no-frills set you won’t feel weird about leaving the house in…
Some pajama sets are too pajama-y, so you can’t run a quick errand, take out the trash, or head to the mailbox without feeling a little exposed. Lake Pajamas are a solid option for sleeping, lounging, and quick errands. Between the collar-free silhouette, the basic cuts, and muted tones, they’re a great all-around loungewear set with breathable fabric.
A printed set for the sleepers who run super hot…
If you tend to overheat no matter the season, I’d go for a tank set. Roller Rabbit is another one of those buzzy pajama brands that I was originally skeptical of, but after testing for months on end, I can confirm its hype is worth it. It’s made of a soft pima cotton that won’t rub or irritate, and somehow the brand has managed to cut back on seams making them extra-comfortable. This tank set comes with matching shorts and is in the brand’s classic heart print.
The best pajamas for heavy periods…
Even though I swear by a pajama set, I’m definitely skipping it on my period. Instead, I’m swapping it for Knix’s Super Leakproof Boxers, along with a tank top. These boxers are baggy, yet secure. They have built-in leakproof underwear that can absorb up to nine tampon’s worth. Just throw them in the washing machine when you’re done.
A sleep shirt from a cult-favorite brand…
If you’ve been debating, Eberjey is indeed a legit brand. This shirt is made of the softer-than-a-cloud jersey material the brand is known for and comes in six colors. I wish that I could de-influence you and say that it’s not worth it, but it’s popular for a reason. I’ve just found you have to be extra-gentle when washing it. This is an ideal, luxurious pick for new moms or those who want a cooling option with coverage.
A classic pajama set under $40…
Old Navy’s Sunday Sleep line also reminds me of Eberjey at a fraction of the price. While the fabric doesn’t hit the same, it comes pretty damn close. I love that they come in regular, tall, and petite lengths, sizing up to 4X. They’re the perfect long-sleeve options for those who run cold, but they don’t bunch or feel suffocating.
A basic pajama short…
A full pajama set might not be your thing, and if that’s the case, I turn to Aerie for single pants and shorts. This flannel boxer short comes in a sweet gingham print and is under $15. Call me crazy, but I’d leave the house in these (though I’d probably size up for length).
A set you have to jump on quickly…
When it comes to Skims, I’ve found that I have to buy them pretty quickly when the brand does a restock; they tend to sell out fast. After buying my first pair of pajamas from them a few years ago, I understand the craze. These are some of the thinnest pajamas I own, but they aren’t see-through. These are the most undetectable options, especially if you’re looking for something you’ll forget you’re wearing.
A unisex option you’ll both love…
Perfectly baggy and stretchy, these Jambys boxers are a style you’ll want to buy for yourself and him. They look like a basic house short, so you could get away with running errands in them with an oversized sweatshirt. Think of them as a hybrid between briefs and athletic shorts.
A luxurious set under $70…
This set from Little Sleepies checks pretty much every box: they’re made of a breathable bamboo fabric, they have a relaxed fit that isn’t oversized, and they have easy access for nursing. Our Moms Who Get It editors rave about these (especially because they’re a matching PJ style you’ll want to rewear). Not to mention, what you’re getting for the price is a solid deal.
A sweet romper for kids…
This adorable Zippy from Little Sleepies is a tried-and-true option from our Moms Who Get It editors. You can pick from sizes up to 3T, and the material is intentionally stretchy to fit them even longer. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic and will soothe babies’ sensitive skin. It gets bonus points for feeling so soft.
A classic style for kids that will never get old…
Yeah, I’m 28, and I remember my mom buying Hanna Andersson pajamas for me and my brother. In case you’ve never shopped the brand, they’re famous for their flat-seamed styles that cause little to no irritation, along with unique, wearable prints. There are options for all ages, including adults.
A stretchy robe we never want to take off…
When it comes to sleep, our team of editors will turn to Cozy Earth for everything from socks to bedding. This stretchy robe is made of the brand’s bestselling bamboo material. It’s that simple extra layer that’ll keep you warm in the mornings while you’re getting ready or prepping for the day ahead. Because the fabric is so lightweight, it’ll drape in a stylish way, too. PS: For 20% off use code THESKIMM.
A maternity bundle that isn’t expensive…
When it comes to maternity wear, our Moms Who Get It editors like luxe-feeling options that don’t cost a ton. This bundle from Old Navy comes with both a maternity robe and a nursing nightgown. The nightgown has a built-in shelf bra, along with detachable clips at the straps so you can be prepared with minimal effort.
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