January’s Famous “White Sales”: What’s Actually Worth Buying to Refresh Your Bedding

By the Editorial Team at Musa Magazine

If you’ve walked into a department store or browsed online lately, you’ve probably seen “White Sales” signs everywhere. But did you know this tradition isn’t new at all? It started back in 1878, when a store in Philadelphia decided to discount bedding (which at the time was only made in white) to boost sales during the slow month of January.

Nearly 150 years later, the tradition lives on. January is, without question, the best time of year in the United States to buy sheets, towels, and comforters, with discounts of up to 60%.

That said, not everything is worth it. Here’s where your money truly pays off if you want to turn your bedroom into a five-star hotel experience.

1. Sheets: Quality Over “Thread Count”
It’s easy to be tempted by a package promising “1,000 thread count” sheets for $20. Don’t fall for it. Those numbers are often marketing tricks using low-quality synthetic fibers.

• What’s worth it: Look for labels that say 100% Egyptian Cotton or Pima Cotton.
• Choose your feel: If you like crisp, cool sheets (hotel-style), go for percale. If you prefer something softer and silkier, choose sateen. A 200–400 thread count in real cotton is far better than 1,000 in polyester.

2. Towels: The Weight Test
There’s nothing sadder than a scratchy towel—or one that doesn’t dry you. If your towels smell musty no matter how much you wash them, or they’re fraying, it’s time to let them go.

• What’s worth it: Look for Turkish cotton towels or ones with HygroCotton technology (they get fluffier with washing). Pay attention to weight: the heavier the towel feels in your hand, the better the quality and absorbency.

3. Pillows and Comforters: Invisible Health
We wash pillowcases regularly, but we forget what’s inside. Pillows collect dust mites and lose support over time.

• The quick test: Fold your pillow in half. If it stays folded and doesn’t spring back on its own, it’s done.
• What’s worth it: January is the perfect time to buy quality pillows (down, memory foam, or hypoallergenic alternatives) at half the price. Your neck will thank you.

Your bed is your sanctuary. You spend a third of your life in it. Taking advantage of White Sales isn’t an expense—it’s an investment in your rest and mental health, so you can face 2026 with energy. Sweet dreams!