Does Thread Count Matter? The Best Guide to Buying Sheets

When it comes to buying sheets, the term "thread count" is often thrown around as the ultimate measure of quality and luxury.

Conventional wisdom holds that the higher the number, the softer and more durable the sheets will be. But as it turns out, thread count may not be the best indicator of sheet quality after all.

In reality, thread count refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. However, manufacturers have found ways to inflate thread count by using thinner and weaker threads, resulting in sheets that may not be as high-quality as advertised.

Additionally, other factors such as the type of cotton used, the way the fabric is woven, and the finishing process all play a role in determining the overall quality of sheets.

In our guide, we will break down the truth behind thread count and provide you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision when buying sheets.

From understanding the different types of cotton to evaluating the weave and finish of the fabric, our guide will equip you with the tools to choose sheets that are truly luxurious and long-lasting. Say goodbye to being misled by thread count and hello to a good night's sleep.

The Truth Behind Thread Count

Because literally, no one thought there could be some kind of drama in the world of bedding, no one thought to ask questions and accepted the thread count lie without even a blink of an eye.

No one ever wondered if it would be scientifically possible to fit more than a thousand threads into a single square inch of fabric.

It's not! The maximum number of threads that can fit in this space is about 400; more and the fabric would be stiff like cardboard and would bend just the same.

How Does Thread Count Actually Work?

So how do bedding manufacturers manage to sell 600+ thread count sheets if they don't exist? Use multi-level yarn and be creative in counting.

Fabric manufacturers can convert weak, low-quality fibers into yarns by twisting the yarns together, and as the number of yarns increases, the yarn becomes stronger and thicker.

To increase the number of threads, some bedding companies count each thread as its own individual thread. So an 800-thread-count sheet is actually a 400-thread-count sheet but made with two-ply thread, and a 1200-thread-count sheet is made with three layers.

Ironically this means that most high thread count sheets can be made from inferior materials and their thick and thick threads are not as soft or comfortable as those used in low thread count sheets.

You know, the ones that told you they weren't good. The ones you haven't bought in years because you've been scammed. That stops today!

What to Consider When Buying Sheets

Quality

When buying sheets, focus on the quality of the thread, not the quantity. Although multilayer yarn is thicker, its short fibers break faster than long, durable fibers in single-layer yarns.

Fabrics are woven from single-layer yarns, even if they are made from synthetic materials, they produce sheets that are soft, luxurious, and made to last.

Texture

As for the number of threads, the best sheets will be in the range of 300 to 400 or, in some cases, zero. You see, not all fabrics are made equal, and some, like breathable (and sustainable!) Bamboo fiber sheets are woven in a way that doesn't conform to the traditional thread count concept.

So if the number of threads doesn't matter, what does it matter? It's all about the feel of the fabric.

All fabrics have different and distinct qualities to suit a wide range of preferences. A high-quality single-layer pure cotton yarn can be woven in different ways to produce sheets with dramatically different textures, such as soft, luxurious satin, cool, breathable calico, and warm, cozy flannel.

Fabric

Not all cotton threads are the same, so look for high-gauge varieties, such as combed cotton, Egyptian cotton, or Pima cotton, which are extremely durable.

But cotton sheets are not the only fabric on the market and they are not always the best option, as they are known to retain moisture and are not as breathable as many synthetic fabrics.

For sheets that will keep you cool and dry, blends made from silk, polyester, or Tencel may be more suitable.

And if you're looking for softness and sustainability, it's hard to beat the bamboo sheets mentioned above, which are durable, breathable, easy to clean, and hypoallergenic.

We hope you enjoy watching this video about Expert Guesses Cheap vs. Expensive Bed Sheets

Source: Architectural Digest

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Last update on 2025-05-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API