Which bed fabric keeps curls from matting after long loaf sessions?

Satin or silk are your best bet. Their smooth surface lets fur glide instead of catching and tangling, which is exactly what you need after those long, cozy loaf sessions. I’ve found that fleece, while soft, actually worsens matting because the fibers grip curls. A satin-lined cat bed or even a simple silk throw works wonders-just keep an eye on any loose threads if your kitten likes to knead.

Bamboo-derived viscose or microfiber suede. Those tightly woven, short-pile synthetic fabrics don't give curly fur anything to snag on, unlike plush or fleece which trap loose hairs and create tangles. I've had good results with a microfiber suede cat cave-it has a slight nap but no loops, so the curls just slide against it during a long loaf. Just wash it with a gentle detergent to keep the fibers smooth.

Cotton sateen with a tight weave is the fabric that holds up best for curly coats during extended loafing. The smooth, flat surface prevents individual curls from hooking into loops or raised fibers, which is the primary cause of matting. I've seen great results with a simple cotton sateen bed pad-it stays cool, doesn't pill, and the lack of nap means even tight corkscrew curls slide off without snagging. Avoid anything with a velour or brushed finish, as those textures grab loose undercoat hairs and pull them into tangles.