Find your perfect (bedsheet) match

Shopping for sheets? From thread count to fabric types, it’s easy to get bogged down in the bedding aisle.

July 31, 2024

Thread count unravelled

Thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads woven into 10cm².

Is a higher count thread better?

While a higher thread count often suggests a softer and more durable sheet, it’s not the only factor to consider. Most sheets perform best within a certain thread count range. For example, a thread count over 600 might not make a noticeable difference in feel or durability.

Breathability

A higher thread count can reduce breathability, as air cannot pass as easily through tightly woven fabric.

  • Beware of manufacturers inflating thread counts using multi-ply threads. For example, a thread count of 400 may use single-ply material, while an 800-thread sheet might use two-ply threads to bump up the count without increasing quality.

  • Other materials such as silk, flannel and microfibre don't use thread count at all. Instead, the quality is based on weight.

  • Terms like 'percale' and 'sateen' describe how cotton is woven and will affect how the fabric feels. Adjectives like 'luxury', 'smooth' and 'soft' are a pretty meaningless indicator of quality. A quick feel of the fabric is a better bet when it comes to choosing the right sheets for you.

Types of sheets, explained

Cotton

  • Regular cotton: Affordable, made from short-staple fibres, generally less durable and soft.

  • Egyptian cotton: Handpicked in Egypt, known for extra-long fibres, offering exceptional softness and breathability.

Linen

  • Breathable, moisture-wicking, natural, hypoallergenic.

  • Higher price, can be coarse when new, wrinkles easily.

  • Linen is highly durable and softens with multiple washes.

Flannel

  • Soft, warm, easy to care for, reasonably priced.

  • Best for cooler months or for people who tend to get a bit cold when sleeping.

  • It can be made from wool, cotton, or synthetic fibres.

Polyester

  • Inexpensive, machine-washable, wrinkle-resistant.

  • Poor breathability - may trap moisture and feel unpleasant to some sleepers.

  • Often blended with cotton to create a smoother feel and better temperature regulation.

Bamboo

  • Ultra smooth, breathable, durable, good for sensitive skin.

  • Processed with harsh chemicals, requires careful maintenance to avoid fabric damage.

  • Made from rayon derived from bamboo pulp.

Silk

  • Luxurious, hypoallergenic, excellent temperature regulation, and moisture-wicking.

  • Expensive, requires specific care, less durable.

Microfibre

  • Inexpensive, easy to clean, warm, and soft.

  • Lacks cooling properties, not natural or hypoallergenic.

  • Type of polyester with fine and tightly woven fibres.

Tencel

  • Durable, smooth, soft, cool, resistant to dust and bacteria.

  • Costly, limited insulation.

  • Derived from eucalyptus trees.

So, in terms of thread count alone, anything around 200–400 will be good quality and comfortable, broadly speaking. But thread count is just one piece of the puzzle. The material, its quality, the type of thread and the weave type are just as (if not more) important.

How to reycle old bedsheets

How to make sure your fitted sheet stays put!

Source:
sleepfoundation.org
choice.com.au
This is some text inside of a div block.
No items found.