What is a Good Thread Count for Sheets?

Understanding Thread Count

Thread count gets a lot of attention in the bedding business, with companies often touting their high numbers as a reason to choose their products over those belonging to the competition. However, the truth is that thread count is only part of the story, and ultimately the quality and comfort of your sheets depends on a wide array of factors.

Before hitting the aisles of your favorite bedding store, it’s important to understand what thread count actually means. A term for the number of horizontal and vertical threads occupying a given square inch of fabric, thread count can be as low as 100 or as high as 2,000 plus. However, there’s a limit to the number of full, high-quality threads that can fit in a square of fabric. In order to inflate their numbers, and make their products seem superior, some less-than-honest bedding manufacturers use multiple strands of lower-quality thread twisted together. The end result is a less durable sheet that may not feel as soft to the touch.

You may be wondering how you know what thread count to seek out in your sheets. Because 800 is the maximum number of single-ply threads that can fit in a given square inch of fabric, you should be suspicious of any bedding that claims to offer a higher count. Typically, bedding on the lower end of the spectrum is more breathable while those on the upper end are thicker and warmer.

How Thread Count Affects You

So, how does all this affect you while you sleep? When you purchase low-quality sheets or those featuring inflated thread counts, you can expect a less restful experience overall. In general, sheets made from multi-ply cotton are thicker and denser, allowing less air to pass through. Sleepers are likely to overheat and wake up soaked in sweat when they go this route. 

Additionally, cheaper cotton can be problematic for those with sensitive skin. Because these products are more likely to pill or become scratchy, you may end up tossing and turning rather than getting the good night’s rest you desire. In the long run, those low-priced sheets may end up costing you more as they need to be replaced frequently due to rips and tears.

Benefits of Egyptian Cotton

Instead of focusing on thread count when shopping for sheets, it’s wise to look at the type and quality of the material. Time and again, sheet experts report that certified Egyptian cotton sheets are among the best options for bedding. Strong and supple, true Egyptian cotton comes from the Nile River Valley and is manufactured using extra-long staple fibers. Not only is Egyptian cotton stronger than other materials, resisting breaking, tearing, and pilling, but it also boasts a silky-soft, ultra-breathable texture that protects the skin while ensuring a good night’s rest. You can feel confident that your Egyptian cotton sheets will go the distance, holding up after even hundreds of washes.

The Importance of Texture

Opting for Egyptian cotton sheets is a good first step. However, you still have choices to make when it comes to bedding. One of the most important decisions is whether you prefer sheets with a percale or sateen texture.

Silky-soft to the touch, sateen sheets boast a special weave that makes them resistant to wrinkles. As a result, you don’t have to worry about ironing your sheets when they come out of the dryer. The tighter weave also means that sateen sheets are warmer, so they’re a great choice for those who live in cold climates or like to snuggle up on chilly nights. Additionally, sateen is ideal for those who appreciate the feel of silk but want to enjoy the breathability of Egyptian cotton. 

Maybe you love the crisp, clean feel of hotel-style sheets. If so, a percale weave may be the way to go. These highly breathable sheets tend to stay cool on even the hottest of nights, making them a perfect choice for hot sleepers and those living in warmer parts of the world. If you want to slide into sheets that feel fresh-washed every night, consider opting for percale.

Consider the Manufacturing Process

It’s not just the quality of materials or texture of your bedding that affects the end result. Manufacturing process plays a crucial role when it comes to sheets and pillowcases. If you want to experience a truly luxurious night’s rest, seek out bedding that’s made free from harmful chemicals or pesticides. At Pure Parima, we pride ourselves on using only OEKO-TEX® Certified Non-Harmful Chemicals. The end result is a high-quality product that you can sleep on worry free for years to come.

Trust Pure Parima for Egyptian Cotton Sheets

Pure Parima was founded with a goal of providing families with high-quality Egyptian cotton sheets. We hand pick our extra-long staple cotton fibers in the Nile River Valley, so customers can rest assured they’re getting the softest and most durable products. Our exceptional sheets boast the coveted Cotton Egypt Association seal of approval, guaranteeing their purity and strength. If you’re ready to experience the best sheets on the market, shop online today. We look forward to helping you enjoy your bed again.