The Lo-Down on Thread Count: Choosing Superior Sheets and Bedding

Thread count (abbreviated as TC) is the number of threads woven per square inch of fabric. Confused about what this means when it comes to buying luxury bedding? It’s really pretty simple. First, there are 2 types of fabric used in luxury bedding: single ply and multiply (more than 1). Single ply fabrics use longer, more durable fibers to increase thread count and top out at about 600 threads per square inch. Multiply fabrics are made by twisting 2 or more shorter threads together and range from 400-1500tc. Comparing single ply fabrics to multiply fabrics is an apples to oranges comparison. The very best sheets are made from long fiber, single ply fabric with a thread count between 300 and 600. But multiply fabrics above 600tc are also excellent and offer their own unique experience. They are thick, lustrous, and cottony soft. You may be amazed to know that if you compared three sets of sheets with three different thread counts (500, 1000 and 1500tc) you would find that:

1. As the thread count increases, the thread size actually decreases
2. Just like the cords of a rope, threads are twisted to achieve a higher thread count
3. Once twisted, these threads are called ‘multi-ply’ and are not as sturdy as single ply threads
4. The length of the fiber is more important in creating luxury sheets and bedding than the actual thread count

Sheet sets with thread counts of 800-1200 are most suitable for winter because their heavier weight makes them cozier and warmer; sheets with 600 TC or less are more comfortable for the warmer seasons. Many people believe that simply buying sheets labeled with the highest thread count possible means they are getting the most luxurious item available. But as we have seen, getting a higher tc sheet set only means you are buying something different, not necessarily better. Because of this confusion, many consumers have false expectations when purchasing high thread count cotton sheets. For peace of mind, purchase luxury sheets and bedding from a reputable store or retailer. Most high end and reputable sellers will educate you about thread count and Egyptian cotton, so that the 500tc, 800tc, or 1200tc sheets you are about to take home are the real McCoy. As a final thought… have you ever wondered why so many people prefer Egyptian cotton? The short answer is that sheet sets, pillowcases and duvet covers made from Egyptian cotton are made with long fiber cotton. Egyptian cotton is the finest quality - the best cotton in the world. Cultivated mainly in the Nile River Valley in Egypt, this grade of cotton boasts the longest and strongest fibers in the world. If you would like to learn more, please read a previous post on Egyptian sheets