When shopping for bed sheets, you've probably come across the term 'thread count,' but what does thread count mean, how does it affect your sleep, and what is the best thread count for sheets?
Many believe that a higher thread count equals better quality sheets, but it's not that straightforward. In this post, we'll break down thread count, debunk some common myths, and help you make an informed decision. We are focusing on percale and sateen sheets made from cotton.
WHAT IS THREAD COUNT? DOES THREAD COUNT REALLY MATTER?
Thread count simply tells you how many threads are woven into each square inch of the sheet.
The calculation is pretty straightforward. It's based on the number of threads running both horizontally and vertically across a square inch of the fabric. The horizontal threads are called "weft”, and the vertical ones are "warp”. For example, if you have a cotton sheet with 150 threads, horizontally, and another 150 threads, vertically, you get a thread count of 300 threads per square inch.
Why should you care about thread count when picking out sheets? Well, it's a crucial factor in determining sheet quality and how they'll feel against your skin. So, when you're in the market for sheets that are not only comfy but also durable, thread count is something you should definitely consider.
But thread count isn't the only thing to keep in mind. You might also come across the term "Ply." Ply refers to individual threads that are twisted together to make a thicker thread. There are two types: single-ply, which is thinner, and double-ply, which is thicker and more robust.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT THREAD COUNT: WHAT'S THE BEST THREAD COUNT FOR SHEETS?
So, what's the best thread count for sheets that are made from cotton? Or should we ask, what's the ideal thread count range?
Consider factors like climate, skin sensitivity, and your budget, when bed sheets. Keep in mind that the quality of the yarns and threads used in the fabric is more important than just the thread count number.
Factors to consider when purchasing good cotton sheets are:
1| Thread count
Thread count is not the most important consideration when selecting bed sheets—it is one of the factors that matter. You may aim for thread counts between 250 and 400 for woven percale sheets (perfect for warmer nights but suitable for both summer and winter). The lower the number, the more air circulates to cool you during warm nights. For sateen sheets, thread counts around 400 to 600 are common. These are best for colder months but can be comfortably used year-round by some people.
It is best not to dwell too much on thread count because the quality of the fiber is more important. Sheets from two different manufacturers can have the same thread count, but if woven using two different fibers (for example, one short and the other long fibers), they will feel different.
2| Fabric Construction
Decide if you want percale or sateen cotton sheets. One thread over one thread plain weave makes percale sheets. These sheets are breathable, have a crisp feel and matte in appearance. Manufacturers use three/four threads over one thread weave to make Sateen sheets. These sheets are silky-smooth, wrinkle-resistant and are warmer than percale sheets.
3| Fiber Content
Longer cotton fibers help create flat and smooth woven yarns. The result is softer and more durable fabrics. Luxurious sheets come from long-staple cotton or extra-long staple cotton fibers. Examples include Egyptian cotton, Pima cotton, and Supima cotton. Sheets constructed from single-ply yarns made of longer staple cotton fibers may contribute to the softness of bed sheets.
THREAD COUNT MYTHS: ARE HIGH THREAD COUNT BED SHEETS BETTER?
Many folks have been tricked into thinking that higher thread counts are always better, so they spend a lot of money on sheets labeled "1000 thread count." But here's the truth: Some manufacturers use tricks to disguise the true quality of the product. They usually twist three threads together and then count each of them separately to get the higher number. This triple-ply thread is made from cheaper and weaker cotton, which is why they need more plies for strength.
So, how noticeable is a higher thread count sheet? Sheets with extremely high thread counts, like 1000 or more, can often feel stiff and heavy. As mentioned above, that's usually because they use multiple-ply threads instead of single-ply ones. Attempting to include too many threads in a piece of fabric can sometimes block the air from flowing through, making it feel heavier and warmer.
Unlike very high thread count sheets, sheets made from single-ply threads tend to get softer with time, making them more comfortable as you use them.
So, while thread count matters, it's just one part of the bedding puzzle, with fabric quality and ply type also playing a big role in your sleep comfort.
REDDIT USERS DEBATE: DOES THREAD COUNT MATTER? WHAT’S THE BEST THREAD COUNT FOR SHEETS?
We have compiled reviews and testimonials from redditors who have tried different bed sheets with different thread counts. The statements below are not ours but of people on reddit giving their opinions. The questions they are answering are: Is thread count important? Does thread count matter? What's the best thread count for sheets?
We believe these debates are a clear indication that the thread count topic has been made more complicated than necessary. It is simply one of a few factors that should be considered—not the determining factor when choosing the best sheets for you.
Does thread count matter?
Here is what Reddit users in r/RedditForGrownups are saying about sheets thread count after u/Ghenges stated they were interested in experiencing high thread count bed sheets after a budget-conscious upbringing.
- u/TransposingJons: Cautioned that "Thread Count" and "Egyptian Cotton" are no longer reliable quality indicators due to market saturation with misleading products.
- u/jippyzippylippy: Suggested that after 600 thread count, the difference in feel is hard to discern and recommended 500-thread-count sheets as a sweet spot.
- u/KLWK: Shared positive experiences with 600-thread-count sheets, noting a noticeable difference compared to 400-thread-count sheets.
- u/Bardfinn: Discussed the optimal thread count, suggesting Egyptian long-staple cotton sheets for durability and comfort.
- u/ReverendDizzle: Disliked high-thread-count sheets due to their tendency to feel smothering and preferred high-quality but low thread count sheets.
- u/Finnerite: Advised considering fiber content and avoiding chemically treated sheets, emphasizing that all-cotton thread count matters.
What's the best thread count for sheets?
In a Reddit discussion on r/malelivingspace about bed sheet thread counts, users shared their opinions and experiences:
- u/FattyFattyBoom suggests that going above 300 thread count does make a difference in comfort, with higher thread counts providing softer sheets. They mention their experience with various thread counts and materials, recommending at least 600 thread counts.
- u/Edisonman recommends reading an article explaining that thread count above 400 is not important. They emphasize that companies may inflate thread count numbers by counting individual fine yarns, and they provide links to relevant articles.
- u/jwax33 advises against relying solely on thread count as a metric and suggests feeling the fabric in-store. They mention that sheets tend to smooth over time and use and recommend 300 as a good minimum threshold.
- u/plankthetank suggests that anything over 300 thread count might be for marketing purposes and recommends sticking to 300 thread count sheets.
Is thread count important?
In a discussion on r/IsItBullshit about the relationship between thread count and bedding quality, users shared their insights. Overall, they generally agree that high thread count alone doesn't guarantee high-quality bedding. Material quality and personal preferences play significant roles in determining bedding quality:
- u/shakeyjake emphasizes that the quality of the thread is more important than thread count. They suggest that better-quality fiber with a lower thread count can feel softer and hold up better to washing than lower-quality fiber with a higher thread count. They also mention that once you reach a thread count of 250, the difference in thread quality becomes noticeable.
- u/Xszit explains that thread count indicates the density of the weave and the number of individual threads in a square inch of fabric. They clarify that increasing thread count by using cheaper threads doesn't necessarily improve the feel of the sheets. They suggest that the choice of thread count should depend on the weather and personal preference.
- u/rockfan2001, drawing on their experience selling sheets, confirms that material and thread count are both important. They mention that sheets with 100% cotton and a 700 thread count are excellent, but if they contain any polyester, regardless of the thread count, they are of lower quality.
In a discussion on r/AskReddit about the worth of high thread count sheets, users shared their thoughts and recommendations. Overall, they agree that high thread count sheets can enhance comfort, with some emphasizing the importance of material quality and the necessity of pairing them with a quality mattress:
- u/urlefthand suggests that thread quality and weave matter more than just the thread count.
- u/_reddit_newb shares their personal experience, mentioning that their S/O bought higher thread count sheets, and they found regular thread count sheets to feel scratchy in comparison. They believe that higher thread counts result in softer sheets.
- u/mrsummerlover strongly advocates for high thread count sheets, emphasizing the importance of sleeping comfortably since people spend a significant portion of their lives in bed. They recall the positive difference they experienced when switching to 1000 thread count sheets and recommend looking for bargains during sales at fancy linen stores.
- u/TrEy_is_a_bear shares that they noticed a significant improvement in their bed's comfort after upgrading to 400 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets. They mention that thread counts above 400 are typically doubled over, so an 800 count is essentially two-ply 400 count.
- u/Dougdahead adds that high thread count sheets are worth it if paired with a quality mattress, suggesting that both factors contribute to a comfortable sleep experience.
INFOGRAPHIC AS THREAD COUNT SHEETS GUIDE
Here is a quick visual infographic explaining the relationship between thread count, comfort, and durability for percale and sateen woven cotton bed sheets. To decide what is the best thread count for sheets (here we are discussing cotton bed sheets), you must decide if you want percale or sateen.
