When buying new sheets, what figure do you look at to gauge their quality? For most people, it’s thread count. Higher thread count in bedding has been associated with luxury for a long time.
However, a high thread count doesn’t always correlate to a high-quality set of sheets.
Let’s explore what thread count means, the ideal thread counts for different fabrics, and other considerations when buying a new set of bed sheets.
What are thread counts on sheets?
“Thread count is a measure of the number of fibers woven into a textile per square inch,” says Rebecca Charamut Cass, Connecticut-based interior designer. “There are vertical fibers known as warp, and horizontal fibers known as weft—and they’re interlaced in what’s known as a plain weave, with one fiber over another at right angles.”
For instance, if one inch of fabric has 150 vertical threads and 150 horizontal threads, the thread count number is 300. Thread count figures can range anywhere from 200 to 800 and even higher.
Though many people think a high thread count means a bed sheet set is made with high-quality fabrics, that’s not always true. Let’s take a look at the importance of thread count in your bed sheets.
Does thread count matter for your bed sheets?
Many people believe a higher thread count always means the softest and most durable set of sheets. While this is true to a degree, it’s not the only thing that matters.
First of all, it’s important to note that thread count is only really relevant for cotton bedding. For cotton sheets, thread count can range anywhere from 200 to 1,000.
“The higher the thread count, the tighter the weave and the warmer the sheets; but that doesn’t mean the sheets will be very soft,” says Heather Ferreras-Tokan, founder and principal designer at Tokan Interiors.
Plus, it also means you lose breathability in your sheets. “A higher thread count…means air doesn’t circulate well enough to keep you cool while you are sleeping,” adds Ferreras-Tokan.
Additionally, you can only get so many threads onto the loom—and in order to increase thread quantity, some manufacturers sacrifice thread quality. As a result, a higher thread count doesn’t necessarily indicate improved durability in cotton sheets, notes Charamut Cass.
What about sheet fabrics outside of cotton?
When it comes to other sheet materials, linen is one of the most durable options—despite it having a lower thread count. “Linen, also a natural fiber like cotton, is known as one of the most durable natural fibers,” says Charamut Cass.
Silk sheets, meanwhile, are spun with a much thinner thread, so they generally have higher thread counts. That doesn’t necessarily make silk a better option than other sheet fabrics, though.
The bottom line: “It is the combination of thread count coupled with the type of yarns or threads that are essential for fine linens and a better night’s sleep,” says Charamut Cass.
Watch this video for more insights on what thread count means and why it’s important:
Ideal thread counts for each bed sheet material
Now that we know high thread count sheets aren’t always high-quality, let’s go over the best thread count for each type of bed sheet material.
Sheet Material Best Thread Count Sateen Cotton Sheets 300 to 600 threads per square inch Percale Cotton Sheets 200 to 400 threads per square inch Silk Sheets 400+ threads per square inch Linen Sheets 80 to 120 threads per square inch Microfiber Sheets Measured in grams per square meter (GSM). Look for microfiber sheets with a GSM of 90 to 120.
Other factors to consider when buying a new set of sheets
Even though it’s important, thread count isn’t the only factor you need to consider before purchasing a higher-quality bed sheet set.
You should also take the ply, fiber length, and weave pattern of your sheets into consideration before finalizing your purchase. (Note that these factors mainly apply to cotton sheets.)
Ply
Ply refers to the number of fibers twisted together into a single thread. When it comes to ply, less is definitely better.
“Single-ply yarn uses the lightest and strongest yarn, while multi-ply yarn uses a group of the weakest yarn, which can cause a false strength,” says Ferreras-Tokan.
If you’re looking for something soft and light, it’s best to opt for bed sheets made with single-ply yarn.
Fiber length
Staple refers to the length of the cotton fiber. There are two main types of cotton: short-staple and long-staple.
Short-staple cotton is made with shorter fibers, making the fabric less durable and prone to damage like fraying or wrinkling.
Long-staple cotton, such as Pima and Egyptian cotton, is made with longer fibers to make a smoother, stronger, and more durable fabric.
“Longer twisted fibers create a stronger thread and are less likely to break off and cause some level of what is known as pilling,” says Charamut Cass.
Weave
Weave is another factor you’ll encounter when choosing sheets. Weave isn’t an indicator of quality, but it’s worth paying attention to since different types of weave create fabrics with slightly different properties.
“The weave affects the durability, breathability, feel, and overall appearance,” says Ferreras-Tokan.
Generally, you’ll find cotton sheets with either a percale weave or a sateen weave.
A percale weave (also known as a plain weave) tends to be crisper, lighter, and more breathable. It’s great for hot sleepers.
A sateen weave usually feels silkier and heavier. It’s great for people who tend to sleep cold.
Watch this video to learn if a higher thread count really means higher quality:
Misleading marketing tactics to look out for
As you consider the right thread count for your sheets, you’ll want to keep an eye out for tactics designed to make sheets look more comfortable or of a higher quality than they actually are. A sheet count between 200 to 600 is ideal for comfort and durability. Anything above that may be an exaggerated number.
Thread counts above 700 are often inflated, says Ferreras-Tokan. “Some companies will count multi-ply twice to reach a higher thread count,” she explains.
Plus, it’s not just the thread count that matters. Although it does play an important part, “I strongly feel that the type of fabric is as essential an indicator of quality linens as thread count is,” says Charamut Cass.
Cost of sheets
You don’t need to shell out for the most expensive sheets, but it’s still a good idea to pay for higher quality, premium sheets. The right sheets can help regulate your temperature at night and improve overall comfort while remaining durable over the years.
Lower-priced sheets tend to start between $25 to $50. This option tends to fall apart quickly and is typically not as breathable or soft as premium sheets.
Higher-priced sheets can range anywhere from $100 to $400. You gain numerous benefits from spending a bit more on your bed sheets.
When purchasing premium sheets, look for cotton sheets with a thread count range of 300 to 600 for a sateen weave and 200 to 400 for a percale weave. Take into consideration the ply and the fiber length to ensure you’re selecting the best possible option.
Time for new sheets? Find the best options at Saatva
Organic Sateen Sheet Set
It’s easy to see why our flagship organic cotton sheet is a bestseller. Its silky-soft, 300 thread count sateen weave is made with 100% certified organic cotton. It’s better for the planet and feels indulgently luxurious on you.
Time for new sheets? Find the best options at Saatva
Percale Sheet Set
Pamper yourself in deluxe comfort with our breathable percale sheets. They’re made from the world’s best long-staple cotton that gets softer and better with every wash.
Time for new sheets? Find the best options at Saatva
Linen Sheet Set
Sleep in effortless style with our deluxe linen sheets made with responsibly-sourced, all-natural European linen. Stays cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and gets softer with every wash.
Time for new sheets? Find the best options at Saatva
Luxury Flannel Sheet Set
Envelop yourself in the soft, breathable warmth of our luxurious flannel sheets. They’re woven from the world’s best long staple cotton and yarn dyed for a unique heathered finish.
Time for new sheets? Find the best options at Saatva
Essential Sheet Set
This upgraded staple is woven from percale cotton and viscose to create an extremely soft, lightweight, and breathable sheet that gets softer with every wash.
Time for new sheets? Find the best options at Saatva
Embroidered Sateen Sheet Set
Wrap yourself in the five-star luxury of our elegantly trimmed organic cotton sheets in a silky-soft, 300 thread count sateen weave that gets softer with every wash.
Time for new sheets? Find the best options at Saatva
Banded Percale Sheet Set
Indulge in five-star hotel luxury right in your own bedroom with our banded percale sheets. They’re made from breathable long-staple cotton that gets softer and better with every wash.
FAQs
Is thread count the most important factor in choosing sheets?
While thread count is important for cotton sheets, it isn’t all that important for other bed sheet materials. Additionally, there are other factors you should consider like weave, fiber length, and ply.
Are sheets with a higher thread count always high-quality sheets?
No, sheets with a high thread count aren’t always high quality. Ideal thread count is dependent on the fabric used to make the bed sheets.
Does a higher thread count mean softer sheets?
When it comes to cotton sheets, a higher thread count can mean a softer fabric. However, thread count doesn’t equate to softer sheets for silk and linen fabrics.
Find a new set of high-quality sheets with Saatva
Good-quality sheets are the key to feeling comfortable, warm, and cozy in your bed. Saatva offers a wide range of sheet sets suitable for all sleep types, whether you’re looking to remain cool at night, stay warm, or simply want to sleep in luxury.
You’ll find all types, including
Organic cotton sheets with a timeless elegance
,
Crisp and cool percale cotton sheets with a luxe matte finish
,
Airy and elegant linen sheets with a relaxed look
, and
Heirloom-quality flannel cotton sheets with a velvety-soft feel
sheets. We’re committed to using quality fabrics in our bed sheet sets, so you can experience the best night’s sleep possible for longer. Check out our selection of high-quality sheets today.
