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By the time bedtime rolls around, who’s not guilty of grabbing the nearest clean, comfy clothes to sleep in after a long, hard day? It might seem silly, but having the right sleepwear can make a big difference in your quality of sleep. Anyone who’s suffered through night sweats or uncomfortably tight PJ pants knows the importance of sleepwear. The best pajamas for women facilitate great sleep by helping you stay cool (or warm!), cozy, comfortable, and feel ready to get some Zs.
Whether you’ve had the same pair of PJs for years or it’s simply time to level up your sleepwear, new pajamas can make a big difference in your quality of sleep. Especially for people going through menopause or perimenopause. “The key to pajamas is comfort and temperature regulation, particularly given that [hormonal] fluctuations for women can cause very dynamic temperatures at night, ranging from hot flashes to shivering!” says Wendy Troxel, senior behavioral scientist, Rand Corporation and author of Sharing the Covers: Every Couple’s Guide to Better Sleep and Scientific Advisor for sleepfoundation.org. “Soft, light-weight materials that wick-away sweat can be helpful in managing those dramatic temperature swings that are common among women.”
Hormonal changes aside, even just changing your pajamas based on the season can help. “In warmer weather, consider lightweight moisture-wicking fabrics that move sweat away from your body and dry quickly to help you feel cool and dry,” says Lexie Sachs, Executive Director, Textiles, Apparel & Paper Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. “In colder weather, consider heavier and brushed fabrics (like flannel) that trap in air to keep you warmer.”
How we chose the best pajamas for women
We tapped Sachs, Troxel, Daniel Noyed, sleep science coach for sleepfoundation.org, poured over countless reviews, and consulted the Good Housekeeping Institute which tests countless products to ensure a fair and accurate representation of each item.
Ahead, from the best pajama sets to nightgowns and shorts, these are some expert and customer’s favorite PJs for women.
Our top picks
Best Affordable Shorts and Short Sleeves Pajama Set for Women
Ekouaer Tie Dye Pajamas Set
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Best Organic Cotton Pajamas for Women
Pact Organic Cotton Tank and Capris Sleep Set
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Best Silk Pajama Set for Women
Lunya Washable Silk Pajamas
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Best Pajama Set for Hot Sleepers
Cozy Earth Short Sleeve Bamboo Pajama Set in Stretch-Knit
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Best Basic Pajama Shorts for Women
90 Degree By Reflex Soft and Comfy Activewear Lounge Shorts
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Best Plus-Size Pajama Shorts for Women
SKIMS Knit Pajama Shorts
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Pros
- Affordable
- Available in 16 Colors
Cons
- Some Users Note Fabric Unravels After Washing
The Good Housekeeping Institute dubbed these the best value pajamas, and at just $40 it’s clear why they received the accolade. Available in 16 different colors and sizes S-XXL, you’re sure to find a pair that suits your style.
Sizes: S-XXL
Pros
- Available in Seven Colors
Cons
- One-Size Fits “All“
If you want the benefits of borrowing your partner’s shirt without having to be responsible for any spills, sweat stains, or the like, then a nightshirt is a great option. This one has over 14,000 ratings on Amazon and a nearly five star rating. “They are roomy, comfortable, soften up with washes. Have them in four or five colors. Perfect for comfort around the house,” writes one customer.
Size: One Size
Best Affordable Shorts and Short Sleeves Pajama Set for Women
Ekouaer Tie Dye Pajamas Set
Best Affordable Shorts and Short Sleeves Pajama Set for Women
Ekouaer Tie Dye Pajamas Set
Now 39% Off
Pros
- Affordable
- Available in More Than 30 Colors and Patterns
- Available in Long Sleeves
Cons
- Some Users Find the Material Scratchy
This affordable short sleeve and shorts set is just $20, and has over 4,000 reviews and nearly five stars on Amazon. We love the tie-dye pattern, and that the set is machine washable. “This was a Mother’s Day for my daughter and she loves them,” writes one happy customer. “She said they are soft and comfortable!!!”
Sizes: S-XXL
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Best Organic Cotton Pajamas for Women
Pact Organic Cotton Tank and Capris Sleep Set
Best Organic Cotton Pajamas for Women
Pact Organic Cotton Tank and Capris Sleep Set
If you’re looking for a sustainably-made organic fabric, this sleep set by Pact is a great option. In fact, according to the Good Housekeeping Institute (which named this set the best organic pajama set), the collection is OTS-certified, meaning the whole production process (not just the growing of the cotton) follows strict standards. There are plenty of other options to choose from as well, including long-sleeve tops and bottoms if you sleep cold.
Best Jogger Pajamas for Women
Brooklinen Boerum Jogger
Best Jogger Pajamas for Women
Brooklinen Boerum Jogger
Pros
- Available in Seven Colors
- Lightweight
Cons
This landed in our best joggers for women for a good reason. With more than 300 five-star reviews on the brand’s website, it also comes recommended by Lori Bergamotto, style director at Good Housekeeping. It’s available in seven colors and six sizes, so you’re sure to find a pair you’ll love.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Best Silk Pajama Set for Women
Lunya Washable Silk Pajamas
Best Silk Pajama Set for Women
Lunya Washable Silk Pajamas
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Pros
- 100% Silk
- Washable
- Available in Six Colors
Cons
- Pricey
Unlike many of its silk counterparts, this pajama set is machine washable—meaning you can sleep feeling clean and like you’re wrapped in a soft embrace. Available in six colors, the top features a loose fit and the bottoms have an elastic waist with a wide-leg trouser hem.
“I really, and I mean REALLY, wanted to hate this pajama set. They’re expensive, I get it, but ohmygod the material! It is the thickest and most luxurious silk I’ve ever purchased commercially,” one happy Nordstrom shopper writes. “I can’t believe it’s washable! I love this set and will be wearing it every night to fulfill my single rich aunt fantasies. Amazing, 5 stars!”
Sizes: XS-XL
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Pros
- Pockets
- Affordable
Cons
- Some Users Recommend Sizing Up
This PJ set features a long sleeve top and coordinating shorts with a drawstring closure, and customers say it’s so comfy. Plus, it’s machine washable, super soft, and comes in 15 colors. “Very comfortable and thick material to keep you warm and cozy,” one customer wrote.
Sizes: S-XXL
Best Pajama Set for Hot Sleepers
Cozy Earth Short Sleeve Bamboo Pajama Set in Stretch-Knit
Best Pajama Set for Hot Sleepers
Cozy Earth Short Sleeve Bamboo Pajama Set in Stretch-Knit
Pros
- 100-Night Trial
- Breathable Fabric
Cons
- Some Users Say the Elastic in the Pants Is Too Strong/Not Stretchy Enough
While there’s plenty of speculation as to the truth about plant-based fabrics like bamboo, this set from Cozy Earth (which is actually made of viscose derived from bamboo) comes recommended by Noyed for its lightweight make and breathability. And reviewers love it too, with over 2,000 reviews on the brand’s website and a five-star rating. “The minute I put my new pajamas on I knew I was going to love them. So soft and comfortable. I liked them so much I bought my husband a pair from the men’s section,” one satisfied customer writes.
Sizes: XS-3XL
Best Basic Pajama Shorts for Women
90 Degree By Reflex Soft and Comfy Activewear Lounge Shorts
Best Basic Pajama Shorts for Women
90 Degree By Reflex Soft and Comfy Activewear Lounge Shorts
Pros
- Pockets
- Extended Sizing
- Affordable
- Available in Eight Colors
Cons
- Some Users Report Fabric Quality Issues
Sometimes the best pajamas are combinations of new and old. Pair these soft shorts with your favorite tank top for a cool and comfy bedtime option. Plus, these can double as workout shorts in a pinch. Did we mention they feature pockets, a drawstring closure, and have over 15,000 reviews and nearly five stars on Amazon? “These shorts are super comfy. They definitely are great for lounging around the house in sweltering heat,” writes one satisfied customer.
Sizes: XS-3X
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Best Plus-Size Pajama Shorts for Women
SKIMS Knit Pajama Shorts
Best Plus-Size Pajama Shorts for Women
SKIMS Knit Pajama Shorts
Pros
- Inclusive Sizing
- Soft Knit Material
Cons
- Some Users Find High-Waisted Shorts Uncomfortable for Bedtime
The epitome of cozy, these knit shorts are a favorite for a reason. Available up to a size 4X, these buttery soft shorts offer the best of both worlds. They’re short so they shouldn’t overheat hot sleepers, but they offer the cozy factor thanks to their knit make.
Sizes: XXS-4X
Best Flannel Pajamas for Women
PajamaMania Fleece Long Sleeve Pajama PJ Set
Best Flannel Pajamas for Women
PajamaMania Fleece Long Sleeve Pajama PJ Set
Pros
- Affordable
- Cozy
- Machine Washable
Cons
- Not for Hot Sleepers
- Some Users Note Pilling
Both the top and bottom in this pajama set are polyester fleece and feel like a throw blanket, according to the Good Housekeeping Institute. Great for keeping you warm when the weather turns cold, the polyester also holds up well in the washing machine compared to natural fibers. Amazon reviewers call the pajamas “super soft,” but some complain about pilling.
ENJOYNIGHT Sleepwear Tops with Capri Pants Pajama Sets
ENJOYNIGHT Sleepwear Tops with Capri Pants Pajama Sets
Pros
- Available in 24 Patterns
- Affordable
Cons
- Some Users Find Fabric Scratchy
With over 12,000 reviews on Amazon and nearly a five-star rating, this pajama set has customers coming back for more. Made of a cotton blend fabric, the set features a V-neck t-shirt and capri pants to keep you comfy all night long. “These are very nice pajamas for the money,” writes one satisfied shopper. “I have washed several times. No fading, shrinkage, or pilling. Will buy more when the time comes.”
Sizes: XS-3X
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Pros
- Stretchy Material
- Lace
Cons
- Limited Sizing
- Hand-Wash
If you’re looking for something sext that could work beneath a blazer or another shirt during the day, this camisole from Hanky Panky is a great option. We love the pattern and color, and that it can easily go from date night to bedtime.
Sizes: XS-L
Best Silk Nightgown Pajamas for Women
Fishers Finery 100% Pure Mulberry Silk Chemise
Best Silk Nightgown Pajamas for Women
Fishers Finery 100% Pure Mulberry Silk Chemise
Pros
- Available in Eight Colors
Cons
- Some Users Say Material Snags Easily
Looking for something sexy, cool, and incredibly luxurious to the touch? That’s exactly what this 100% pure mulberry silk chemise offers. Available in eight colors, you’re sure to find one that suits your mood. You can even wash this in the washing machine on a delicate cycle, as long as it’s in a mesh protective bag.
“This is a first silk garment for me...and I had assumed that a satin chemise would be just as good. I was wrong...silk is absolutely lovely and superior in look, texture, and elegance. What a lovely gift from my husband in splurging on an item that is only worn for my comfort in my home,” writes one Amazon customer.
Sizes: XS-XL
Best Jersey Pajama Pants for Women
PJ Salvage Jersey Pajama Pantsll
Best Jersey Pajama Pants for Women
PJ Salvage Jersey Pajama Pantsll
Pros
- Machine Washable
- Soft
- Stretchy
Cons
- Pricey
Jersey fabric is known for being soft to the touch but incredibly stretchy, making it an ideal choice for pajamas. This machine-washable pair features a light elastic waistband and a wide-leg hem for a barely-there feel. “I love these lounge pants,” writes one happy Nordstrom customer. “They have a low rise that suits my body just right and the length is perfect.
Sizes: Small-XXL
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Best Bike Short Pajamas for Women
Hanes Stretch Jersey Bike Short
Best Bike Short Pajamas for Women
Hanes Stretch Jersey Bike Short
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Pros
- Versatile
- Affordable
Cons
- Some Users Say the Fabric Isn’t Breathable
- Only Available in Two Colors
Despite being known for their classic underwear, Hanes also makes great loungewear. This pair of bike shorts can be worn at the gym or in bed—whichever suits your mood. We love that they’re so affordable, and that they have over 34,000 reviews on Amazon, and a five-star rating. “These are seriously some of the best biker shorts I've bought,” writes one Amazon customer. “Overall good quality, definitely planning on buying again.”
Sizes: S-XXL
Best Silk Cami and Short Pajama Set for Women
Nordstrom Short Silk Pajamas
Best Silk Cami and Short Pajama Set for Women
Nordstrom Short Silk Pajamas
Now 30% Off
Pros
- 100% Silk
- Fun Patterns and Colors
Cons
- Limited Sizes In-Stock
While we’re partial to the pattern and color of this silk pajama set, there are two more options to choose from (a fun rainforest and an all-black). Crafted from 100% silk, they’re super soft and luxurious, too. “Love these pajamas and just what I had been on the hunt for. Perfect for summer. 100% silk, washable, while much more affordable than other brands, without sacrificing quality. Size down, they do run very large,” says one reviewer.
Sizes: L-XL
SWOMOG Silk Satin Pajamas Long Sleeve Loungewear Two-piece Sleepwear Button-Down Pj Set
SWOMOG Silk Satin Pajamas Long Sleeve Loungewear Two-piece Sleepwear Button-Down Pj Set
Pros
- Available in 24 Colors and Patterns
Cons
- Some Users Report Fabric Snags Easily
While these aren’t 100% silk, they are 100% comfy. Made of silk satin, this set is so affordable, and comes in a variety of colors and sizes. And with over 13,000 ratings on Amazon and nearly five-stars, we’re not the only ones who think this set is worth your while. “These are just beautiful. Light weight, cool and comfortable,” writes one reviewer. “Perfect with a cami top underneath the jacket.”
Sizes: XS-3X
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Best Cotton Pajama Set for Women
J. Crew End-on-end cotton long-sleeve pajama set
Best Cotton Pajama Set for Women
J. Crew End-on-end cotton long-sleeve pajama set
Pros
- Eco-Conscious
- Cotton
- Inclusive Sizing
Cons
- Pricey
Cotton is a go-to fabric for a reason, and this cotton PJ set from J.Crew hits all the right notes. Not only is it cute and comes in a variety of sizes and colors, but it’s also made with the environment in mind, through J. Crew’s Better Cotton Initiative. Plus, this set is machine washable! “I absolutely LOVE these pajamas! Yes, they run a bit large but that is how classic PJ’s should be, extra roomy and comfy as these are. High-quality cotton that is warm in the winter and cool in the warmer months. They are not see-through at all,” writes on satisfied J. Crew customer.
Sizes: XXS-3X
Pros
- Available in 24 Colors and Patterns
- Loose-Fitting
Cons
- Some Users Note Sizing Inconsistencies
A racerback silhouette gives this traditional chemise an edge, while its loose fit brings on the comfort. We love that it comes in an array of sizes, and over 24 colors and patterns. And Amazon customers love it too, with over 7,000 reviews and nearly a five-star rating. “Comfy, nice mid-thigh length and breathable fabric. Washed and dried with no shrinkage or wrinkles,” writes one reviewer.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Emily Goldman
Deputy Editor
Emily Goldman is the deputy editor at Prevention. She’s spent her career editing and writing about health, wellness, beauty, fashion, and food for Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, Bridal Guide, Good Housekeeping, and more. She’s loved all things health and wellness since starting her bi-weekly podcast Pancreas Pals—a series all about the highs and lows of living life with type 1 diabetes. When not podcasting, she spends most of her time curled up with a good book or watching a period piece on BBC.