THREAD COUNT GUIDE

What Does It Mean for Sheets & Bedding?

You probably hear a lot about sheet thread count, and there is a lot of misinformation out there about it. We often are asked why we don’t make 1000 thread count sheets. This is because most people believe that high thread count sheets are the best quality, but the truth is a little more complex. In fact, thread count is only a part of the quality equation. We’ve gathered all of the details for you, so you’ll be able to separate truth from myth.

Thread Count: A Game of Marketing Terms

It used to be common knowledge that any food container with the words "lite" or "diet" must be healthy. Once the language was standardized, many of these statements were shown to be merely clever marketing gimmicks. This kind of perplexing terminology are still used on food packaging nowadays. And it appears that the same deceptive marketing strategies have also been used for bedding.

Americans were first exposed to the notion that greater thread counts equated to higher-quality sheets in the mid-1990’s. Since we are naturally driven to numbers when evaluating quality, it was an easy sell. We were able to feel secure in our purchase because of a straightforward statistic like thread count. Surely the sheets would be softer, more resilient, and better all over if the number was higher, right? But the real world is much more complex. Thread count is merely one factor to consider, and it may even be deceptive in certain circumstances. Beyond the numbers, things like cotton quality, weave type, and finishing technique all matter a lot when it comes to how comfortable, breathable, and long-lasting your bedding is. So, what thread count is best for sheets and bedding? Let’s find out!

Cotton percale weave illustration | Peacock Alley

What is Thread Count?

If you look up “thread count definition,” you’ll find it’s a count of the number of threads per square inch of fabric. So a fabric with a thread count of 250 should have 125 threads woven horizontally and 125 threads woven vertically per square inch.

Sounds pretty straight forward, right? Not so fast.

There are plenty of ways for companies to boost their thread count through creative math, so it’s come to mean very little in terms of quality. In fact, almost all of the really high thread count sheets you’ll find on the market today are boosting their numbers with multi-ply yarns or other tricks.

Does Thread Count Really Matter?

The short answer is no. High thread count sheets do not mean better quality. Often threads are simply split to create a higher thread count, misleading the consumer that it’s better, when in fact it can weaken the fabric and cause pilling. For this reason, thread count should not be the deciding factor when purchasing high-quality sheets. We recommend looking deeper into the details when the thread count is higher than 600. What matters most in luxury bedding is the quality of the cotton.

What is Multi-Ply Yarn?

A single ply yarn is made up of one long thread. A multi-ply yarn is made of two, three, or even four or five threads twisted together. Unfortunately, this allows some companies to use cheaper multi-ply yarns and count each individual thread.

Remember our 250 thread count example above? Using the same exact weave, with a cheaper multi-ply yarn, some manufacturers could list a 500, 750, 1000, or 1250 thread count fabric! But it’s not going to be nearly as good quality as the single ply fabric with the lower number.

What thread count is the softest?

Thread count alone does not determine soft features in bed sheets. Long staple cottons, especially with Egyptian cotton, are considered to offer the most luxurious feeling. Sateen woven sheets are recommended for a buttery smooth feel with a luminous sheen. We offer luxurious 500 thread count sateen sheeting in our Emily Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set.

When Does Thread Count Matter?

The truth is, ideal thread count needs to be taken into account with the quality of cotton, single ply vs. multi ply cotton, and the type of weave. If you're a fan of a heavier sheet, you might be a fan of our 600 thread count Virtuoso. If you prefer something a bit light weight and crisp, even a 200 thread count like our Boutique sheeting will have you in sleep heaven.

But really, it depends a lot on other factors. The type of weave and quality of the cotton or other materials used makes a much bigger difference than the thread count number. That said, be suspicious of anything with a thread count higher than 600. It’s most likely been inflated in an effort to charge more for lower quality sheeting.

So You Shouldn't Buy Those High Thread Count Sheets?

No, probably not. Anything with a thread count nearing (or above) 1000 thread count is almost certain to be significantly lower quality than sheets with a more reasonable number. Most fabrics with a thread count over 600 are a sign of deceptive marketing tactics at work.

What Is a Good Thread Count for Sheets?

If you must measure thread count, look for something in the 400-600 thread count range, and remember to be certain that they’re single ply. But really, there are much better ways of choosing fine quality sheets.

Firstly, you’ll want to look at what the fibers are made of. We believe fine cotton sheets to be the best, both in terms of comfort and ease of care. There’s a reason cotton has been spun into sheeting for thousands of years.

Next, you’ll want to choose a weave that feels right to you. The most common for fine sheets are sateen and percale. Check out our guide to the differences between percale vs sateen for more details.

Finally, check to see if the fabric is made from long staple cotton. This refers to the length of the individual cotton fibers that were spun together to make each thread. Longer cotton fibers create stronger, smoother threads, and tend to last longer.

In the end, the best way to determine which sheeting is the right choice for you is to sleep on it. Different people sleep better with different weaves, weights, and textures of sheeting, so choose something that feels luxurious against your skin, and enjoy it!

Thread Count FAQs

Q: What is thread count, and why does it matter?

A: The term "thread count" describes the quantity of horizontal (weft) and vertical (warp) threads woven into a square inch of cloth. A denser, more tightly woven fabric is sometimes indicated by a greater thread count, which may have an impact on the sheets' breathability, feel, and durability.

A: What is the best thread count for sheets?

A: For most sheets, a thread count of 300 to 600 is excellent. Sheets in this range tend to offer a great balance of softness, breathability, and durability. Higher thread counts above 600 can still feel luxurious, but they may be less breathable.

Q: Does a higher thread count mean better quality?

A: No, not necessarily! While higher thread counts can provide a smoother texture, extremely high counts (above 800) may be due to multi-ply threads that artificially inflate the number. Other factors like the quality of the cotton and the weave are more important in determining the overall quality.

Q: What is the difference between single-ply and multi-ply thread counts?

A: Single-ply fabrics use single threads, resulting in a more breathable and durable fabric. Multi-ply fabrics twist multiple threads together, which can make the sheet heavier but may not always improve the quality. Multi-ply fabrics are often used to inflate thread count without actually improving the fabric’s quality.

Q: What types of cotton are best for thread count sheets?

A: Long-staple cottons, like Egyptian or Pima cotton, are considered superior. They produce smoother, more durable fabrics because their fibers are longer and create fewer fiber ends, leading to less pilling and a softer feel over time.

Q: How does thread count affect sheet breathability?

A: A moderate thread count (300-500) offers a good balance of softness and breathability. Sheets with very high thread counts may trap heat, reducing breathability, while very low counts can feel coarse.

Q: What is the difference between percale and sateen weaves in relation to thread count?

A: Percale is a plain weave that provides a cool, crisp finish, perfect for those who prefer a lightweight feel. Sateen has a more lustrous finish and a silkier texture, often achieved with higher thread counts and more tightly woven threads.

Q: Can thread count affect the durability of sheets?

A: Yes, but it's not the only factor. Higher thread counts can contribute to durability, but the type of cotton and weave also play significant roles. Long-staple cotton and single-ply threads generally last longer than multi-ply, high thread count sheets.

Q: Is there an optimal thread count for hot sleepers?

A: For hot sleepers, a thread count between 300 and 400 is typically ideal, as these sheets tend to be lightweight and breathable, helping to regulate body temperature during sleep.

Q: Do sheets with higher thread counts get softer over time?

A: Yes, high-quality sheets with a good thread count (especially those made from long-staple cotton) tend to become softer with each wash, improving in comfort and feel over time.

You probably hear a lot about sheet thread count, and there is a lot of misinformation out there about it. We often are asked why we don’t make 1000 thread count sheets. This is because most people believe that high thread count sheets are the best quality, but the truth is a little more complex. In fact, thread count is only a part of the quality equation. We’ve gathered all of the details for you, so you’ll be able to separate truth from myth.

Thread Count: A Game of Marketing Terms

It used to be common knowledge that any food container with the words "lite" or "diet" must be healthy. Once the language was standardized, many of these statements were shown to be merely clever marketing gimmicks. This kind of perplexing terminology are still used on food packaging nowadays. And it appears that the same deceptive marketing strategies have also been used for bedding.

Americans were first exposed to the notion that greater thread counts equated to higher-quality sheets in the mid-1990’s. Since we are naturally driven to numbers when evaluating quality, it was an easy sell. We were able to feel secure in our purchase because of a straightforward statistic like thread count. Surely the sheets would be softer, more resilient, and better all over if the number was higher, right? But the real world is much more complex. Thread count is merely one factor to consider, and it may even be deceptive in certain circumstances. Beyond the numbers, things like cotton quality, weave type, and finishing technique all matter a lot when it comes to how comfortable, breathable, and long-lasting your bedding is. So, what thread count is best for sheets and bedding? Let’s find out!

What is Thread Count?

If you look up “thread count definition,” you’ll find it’s a count of the number of threads per square inch of fabric. So a fabric with a thread count of 250 should have 125 threads woven horizontally and 125 threads woven vertically per square inch.

Sounds pretty straight forward, right? Not so fast.

There are plenty of ways for companies to boost their thread count through creative math, so it’s come to mean very little in terms of quality. In fact, almost all of the really high thread count sheets you’ll find on the market today are boosting their numbers with multi-ply yarns or other tricks.

Does Thread Count Really Matter?

The short answer is no. High thread count sheets do not mean better quality. Often threads are simply split to create a higher thread count, misleading the consumer that it’s better, when in fact it can weaken the fabric and cause pilling. For this reason, thread count should not be the deciding factor when purchasing high-quality sheets. We recommend looking deeper into the details when the thread count is higher than 600. What matters most in luxury bedding is the quality of the cotton.

What is Multi-Ply Yarn?

A single ply yarn is made up of one long thread. A multi-ply yarn is made of two, three, or even four or five threads twisted together. Unfortunately, this allows some companies to use cheaper multi-ply yarns and count each individual thread.

Remember our 250 thread count example above? Using the same exact weave, with a cheaper multi-ply yarn, some manufacturers could list a 500, 750, 1000, or 1250 thread count fabric! But it’s not going to be nearly as good quality as the single ply fabric with the lower number.

What thread count is the softest?

Thread count alone does not determine soft features in bed sheets. Long staple cottons, especially with Egyptian cotton, are considered to offer the most luxurious feeling. Sateen woven sheets are recommended for a buttery smooth feel with a luminous sheen. We offer luxurious 500 thread count sateen sheeting in our Emily Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set.

When Does Thread Count Matter?

The truth is, ideal thread count needs to be taken into account with the quality of cotton, single ply vs. multi ply cotton, and the type of weave. If you're a fan of a heavier sheet, you might be a fan of our 600 thread count Virtuoso. If you prefer something a bit light weight and crisp, even a 200 thread count like our Boutique sheeting will have you in sleep heaven.

But really, it depends a lot on other factors. The type of weave and quality of the cotton or other materials used makes a much bigger difference than the thread count number. That said, be suspicious of anything with a thread count higher than 600. It’s most likely been inflated in an effort to charge more for lower quality sheeting.

So You Shouldn't Buy Those High Thread Count Sheets?

No, probably not. Anything with a thread count nearing (or above) 1000 thread count is almost certain to be significantly lower quality than sheets with a more reasonable number. Most fabrics with a thread count over 600 are a sign of deceptive marketing tactics at work.

What Is a Good Thread Count for Sheets?

If you must measure thread count, look for something in the 400-600 thread count range, and remember to be certain that they’re single ply. But really, there are much better ways of choosing fine quality sheets.

Firstly, you’ll want to look at what the fibers are made of. We believe fine cotton sheets to be the best, both in terms of comfort and ease of care. There’s a reason cotton has been spun into sheeting for thousands of years.

Next, you’ll want to choose a weave that feels right to you. The most common for fine sheets are sateen and percale. Check out our guide to the differences between percale vs sateen for more details.

Finally, check to see if the fabric is made from long staple cotton. This refers to the length of the individual cotton fibers that were spun together to make each thread. Longer cotton fibers create stronger, smoother threads, and tend to last longer.

In the end, the best way to determine which sheeting is the right choice for you is to sleep on it. Different people sleep better with different weaves, weights, and textures of sheeting, so choose something that feels luxurious against your skin, and enjoy it!

Thread Count FAQs

Q: What is thread count, and why does it matter?

A: The term "thread count" describes the quantity of horizontal (weft) and vertical (warp) threads woven into a square inch of cloth. A denser, more tightly woven fabric is sometimes indicated by a greater thread count, which may have an impact on the sheets' breathability, feel, and durability.

A: What is the best thread count for sheets?

A: For most sheets, a thread count of 300 to 600 is excellent. Sheets in this range tend to offer a great balance of softness, breathability, and durability. Higher thread counts above 600 can still feel luxurious, but they may be less breathable.

Q: Does a higher thread count mean better quality?

A: No, not necessarily! While higher thread counts can provide a smoother texture, extremely high counts (above 800) may be due to multi-ply threads that artificially inflate the number. Other factors like the quality of the cotton and the weave are more important in determining the overall quality.

Q: What is the difference between single-ply and multi-ply thread counts?

A: Single-ply fabrics use single threads, resulting in a more breathable and durable fabric. Multi-ply fabrics twist multiple threads together, which can make the sheet heavier but may not always improve the quality. Multi-ply fabrics are often used to inflate thread count without actually improving the fabric’s quality.

Q: What types of cotton are best for thread count sheets?

A: Long-staple cottons, like Egyptian or Pima cotton, are considered superior. They produce smoother, more durable fabrics because their fibers are longer and create fewer fiber ends, leading to less pilling and a softer feel over time.

Q: How does thread count affect sheet breathability?

A: A moderate thread count (300-500) offers a good balance of softness and breathability. Sheets with very high thread counts may trap heat, reducing breathability, while very low counts can feel coarse.

Q: What is the difference between percale and sateen weaves in relation to thread count?

A: Percale is a plain weave that provides a cool, crisp finish, perfect for those who prefer a lightweight feel. Sateen has a more lustrous finish and a silkier texture, often achieved with higher thread counts and more tightly woven threads.

Q: Can thread count affect the durability of sheets?

A: Yes, but it's not the only factor. Higher thread counts can contribute to durability, but the type of cotton and weave also play significant roles. Long-staple cotton and single-ply threads generally last longer than multi-ply, high thread count sheets.

Q: Is there an optimal thread count for hot sleepers?

A: For hot sleepers, a thread count between 300 and 400 is typically ideal, as these sheets tend to be lightweight and breathable, helping to regulate body temperature during sleep.

Q: Do sheets with higher thread counts get softer over time?

A: Yes, high-quality sheets with a good thread count (especially those made from long-staple cotton) tend to become softer with each wash, improving in comfort and feel over time.

You probably hear a lot about sheet thread count, and there is a lot of misinformation out there about it. We often are asked why we don’t make 1000 thread count sheets. This is because most people believe that high thread count sheets are the best quality, but the truth is a little more complex. In fact, thread count is only a part of the quality equation. We’ve gathered all of the details for you, so you’ll be able to separate truth from myth.

Thread Count: A Game of Marketing Terms

It used to be common knowledge that any food container with the words "lite" or "diet" must be healthy. Once the language was standardized, many of these statements were shown to be merely clever marketing gimmicks. This kind of perplexing terminology are still used on food packaging nowadays. And it appears that the same deceptive marketing strategies have also been used for bedding.

Americans were first exposed to the notion that greater thread counts equated to higher-quality sheets in the mid-1990’s. Since we are naturally driven to numbers when evaluating quality, it was an easy sell. We were able to feel secure in our purchase because of a straightforward statistic like thread count. Surely the sheets would be softer, more resilient, and better all over if the number was higher, right? But the real world is much more complex. Thread count is merely one factor to consider, and it may even be deceptive in certain circumstances. Beyond the numbers, things like cotton quality, weave type, and finishing technique all matter a lot when it comes to how comfortable, breathable, and long-lasting your bedding is. So, what thread count is best for sheets and bedding? Let’s find out!

What is Thread Count?

If you look up “thread count definition,” you’ll find it’s a count of the number of threads per square inch of fabric. So a fabric with a thread count of 250 should have 125 threads woven horizontally and 125 threads woven vertically per square inch.

Sounds pretty straight forward, right? Not so fast.

There are plenty of ways for companies to boost their thread count through creative math, so it’s come to mean very little in terms of quality. In fact, almost all of the really high thread count sheets you’ll find on the market today are boosting their numbers with multi-ply yarns or other tricks.

Does Thread Count Really Matter?

The short answer is no. High thread count sheets do not mean better quality. Often threads are simply split to create a higher thread count, misleading the consumer that it’s better, when in fact it can weaken the fabric and cause pilling. For this reason, thread count should not be the deciding factor when purchasing high-quality sheets. We recommend looking deeper into the details when the thread count is higher than 600. What matters most in luxury bedding is the quality of the cotton.

What is Multi-Ply Yarn?

A single ply yarn is made up of one long thread. A multi-ply yarn is made of two, three, or even four or five threads twisted together. Unfortunately, this allows some companies to use cheaper multi-ply yarns and count each individual thread.

Remember our 250 thread count example above? Using the same exact weave, with a cheaper multi-ply yarn, some manufacturers could list a 500, 750, 1000, or 1250 thread count fabric! But it’s not going to be nearly as good quality as the single ply fabric with the lower number.

What thread count is the softest?

Thread count alone does not determine soft features in bed sheets. Long staple cottons, especially with Egyptian cotton, are considered to offer the most luxurious feeling. Sateen woven sheets are recommended for a buttery smooth feel with a luminous sheen. We offer luxurious 500 thread count sateen sheeting in our Emily Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set.

When Does Thread Count Matter?

The truth is, ideal thread count needs to be taken into account with the quality of cotton, single ply vs. multi ply cotton, and the type of weave. If you're a fan of a heavier sheet, you might be a fan of our 600 thread count Virtuoso. If you prefer something a bit light weight and crisp, even a 200 thread count like our Boutique sheeting will have you in sleep heaven.

But really, it depends a lot on other factors. The type of weave and quality of the cotton or other materials used makes a much bigger difference than the thread count number. That said, be suspicious of anything with a thread count higher than 600. It’s most likely been inflated in an effort to charge more for lower quality sheeting.

So You Shouldn't Buy Those High Thread Count Sheets?

No, probably not. Anything with a thread count nearing (or above) 1000 thread count is almost certain to be significantly lower quality than sheets with a more reasonable number. Most fabrics with a thread count over 600 are a sign of deceptive marketing tactics at work.

What Is a Good Thread Count for Sheets?

If you must measure thread count, look for something in the 400-600 thread count range, and remember to be certain that they’re single ply. But really, there are much better ways of choosing fine quality sheets.

Firstly, you’ll want to look at what the fibers are made of. We believe fine cotton sheets to be the best, both in terms of comfort and ease of care. There’s a reason cotton has been spun into sheeting for thousands of years.

Next, you’ll want to choose a weave that feels right to you. The most common for fine sheets are sateen and percale. Check out our guide to the differences between percale vs sateen for more details.

Finally, check to see if the fabric is made from long staple cotton. This refers to the length of the individual cotton fibers that were spun together to make each thread. Longer cotton fibers create stronger, smoother threads, and tend to last longer.

In the end, the best way to determine which sheeting is the right choice for you is to sleep on it. Different people sleep better with different weaves, weights, and textures of sheeting, so choose something that feels luxurious against your skin, and enjoy it!

Thread Count FAQs

Q: What is thread count, and why does it matter?

A: The term "thread count" describes the quantity of horizontal (weft) and vertical (warp) threads woven into a square inch of cloth. A denser, more tightly woven fabric is sometimes indicated by a greater thread count, which may have an impact on the sheets' breathability, feel, and durability.

A: What is the best thread count for sheets?

A: For most sheets, a thread count of 300 to 600 is excellent. Sheets in this range tend to offer a great balance of softness, breathability, and durability. Higher thread counts above 600 can still feel luxurious, but they may be less breathable.

Q: Does a higher thread count mean better quality?

A: No, not necessarily! While higher thread counts can provide a smoother texture, extremely high counts (above 800) may be due to multi-ply threads that artificially inflate the number. Other factors like the quality of the cotton and the weave are more important in determining the overall quality.

Q: What is the difference between single-ply and multi-ply thread counts?

A: Single-ply fabrics use single threads, resulting in a more breathable and durable fabric. Multi-ply fabrics twist multiple threads together, which can make the sheet heavier but may not always improve the quality. Multi-ply fabrics are often used to inflate thread count without actually improving the fabric’s quality.

Q: What types of cotton are best for thread count sheets?

A: Long-staple cottons, like Egyptian or Pima cotton, are considered superior. They produce smoother, more durable fabrics because their fibers are longer and create fewer fiber ends, leading to less pilling and a softer feel over time.

Q: How does thread count affect sheet breathability?

A: A moderate thread count (300-500) offers a good balance of softness and breathability. Sheets with very high thread counts may trap heat, reducing breathability, while very low counts can feel coarse.

Q: What is the difference between percale and sateen weaves in relation to thread count?

A: Percale is a plain weave that provides a cool, crisp finish, perfect for those who prefer a lightweight feel. Sateen has a more lustrous finish and a silkier texture, often achieved with higher thread counts and more tightly woven threads.

Q: Can thread count affect the durability of sheets?

A: Yes, but it's not the only factor. Higher thread counts can contribute to durability, but the type of cotton and weave also play significant roles. Long-staple cotton and single-ply threads generally last longer than multi-ply, high thread count sheets.

Q: Is there an optimal thread count for hot sleepers?

A: For hot sleepers, a thread count between 300 and 400 is typically ideal, as these sheets tend to be lightweight and breathable, helping to regulate body temperature during sleep.

Q: Do sheets with higher thread counts get softer over time?

A: Yes, high-quality sheets with a good thread count (especially those made from long-staple cotton) tend to become softer with each wash, improving in comfort and feel over time.

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