Thread count. By now most of us have heard of it and understand that it has something to do with the quality of sheets. The truly savvy among us may have even heard that higher thread count means supposedly better — but is it? What exactly is thread count, anyway?
Understanding what thread count measures as well as its impact on feel and durability can help you decide on the best thread count for sheets. (Spoiler alert: Higher isn’t always better, no matter what the manufacturer claims.)
What is Thread Count, Really?
Put simply, thread count is the number of threads woven vertically and horizontally into a square inch of fabric. While it’s certainly a factor in the quality of sheets, it isn’t the only one.
Ply, thread count’s hidden partner in crime
Ply is the number of yarn strands that are twisted together to form a thread. Threads can be:
- Single ply (one strand of yarn)
- Double ply (two strands of yarn)
- Triple ply (three strands of yarn)
Once you know this, it’s easy to see how companies can dupe customers into thinking that their sheets are good quality just because the thread count is high — where really they’re using double- or triple-ply thread to inflate their thread count.
For example, they may brag about their “1,000 thread count” sheets but neglect to mention that the thread count is actually 500 and the sheets are made with double-ply yarn.
Beyond the Numbers: Other Factors Affecting Sheet Quality
When considering the best thread count for sheets, it’s important to look beyond the numbers. Thread count and ply are only two of many components that impact sheet quality,
Fiber is key
Another crucial consideration? Material. Sheets can be made with many different fibers, the quality of which varies considerably.
Some sheets are made from natural fibers, including:
- Cotton, which is beloved for its softness, breathability and moisture-wicking properties but may not be the most durable
- Linen, which is also breathable and moisture-wicking but significantly stronger than cotton (although also less soft)
- Silk, which is prized for smoothness and ability to regulate temperature and wick away moisture
Some natural fibers like cotton can be broken down into two groups, short staple and long staple, that help determine quality. Staples refer to the length of the fibers; the longer the fiber, the softer and more durable the material.
You may have heard of Supima cotton? It’s prized for its extra-long staple length. Another popular long-staple cotton, Egyptian cotton, is named for the region where it is grown.
Because natural fibers possess so many desirable qualities, sheets made from them may be priced higher. This is not to say that synthetic (man-made) fabrics are inherently worse than natural ones.
Depending on your sleep, preferences and budget, they may actually be the best option for you.
Some of the synthetic fabrics commonly used to make sheets are:
- Polyester, which is soft, durable and wrinkle-resistant but may trap heat
- Rayon, which is semi-synthetic (made partially from wood pulp), offers softness and breathability but may lack durability
- Tencel, which is also made from wood pulp and is known for being soft and good at wicking moisture
Weave matters, too
Although it gets less attention than thread count, the weave of a fabric is another factor in sheet quality and value. Weave is the way threads are interlaced to create the fabric.
Common sheet weaves include:
- Sateen, which is used to create soft, silky sheets that are luxuriously heavy but may not breathe well
- Percale, which is used to create crisp, cool sheets that are highly breathable and durable
- Twill, which is used to create heavy, sturdy sheets that are also breathable
Which weave is best may be a matter of personal preference, since each one has a unique feel
Navigating Marketing Claims and Finding the Right Thread Count for You
When considering the best thread count for sheets, the main thing to keep in mind is that higher numbers don’t necessarily mean better sheets. There are many quality options with a lower thread count that possess other quality-boosting characteristics.
Know when a deal isn’t all that
Too many companies use exceptionally high thread counts (inflated by multi-ply yarns) to sell you on products that aren’t actually that great.
The best thread count for sheets when it comes to quality may be somewhere in the 300-600 range, although higher thread counts may come with a higher price tag due to increased production costs.
That said, 250-500 thread count sheets often perform as well — and last as long — as those with much higher thread counts, providing lasting value without breaking the bank. Make sure you read the fine print to avoid paying for sheets marketed as superior when you can get a quality product for much less, minus the thread count hype.
Even better than reading about sheets to determine quality is feeling them in person. If possible, feel swatches in person, trying each material in multiple weaves to find the one that feels right for you.
Finally, consider environmental, sustainability and issues. Do the sheets meet OEKO-TEX standard, which shows the material is free of harmful substances? Has the product received any other environmental certifications? These may include:
- Eco-friendly manufacturing
- Sustainably harvested materials
- Organic/free of pesticides
- Fair trade
- Not tested on animals
Depending on your beliefs and lifestyle, these issues may add value that can’t be measured in dollars.
Knowledge is (Buying) Power
Now that you understand a high number isn’t always the best thread count for sheets, you can use your knowledge of what constitutes sheet quality and value to make an informed decision.
Looking beyond thread count to consider things like material, weave and overall construction, you’ll be able to find quality sheets that fit your budget and will promote comfortable sleep for years to come.
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