The Importance of Thread Count: Debunking the Thread Count Myth

When it comes to shopping for sheets and bedding, most consumers have been conditioned to believe that higher thread count means higher quality. We’ve been told that thread counts over 1,000 yield softer, more luxurious fabrics. However, this marketing ploy has been widely debunked by textile experts. The truth is, extremely high thread counts have diminishing returns when it comes to quality and feel.

The Importance of Thread Count: Debunking the Thread Count Myth

Be a savvy shopper and don’t get seduced by thread counts over 600-800. In fact, textiles experts suggest being wary of any sheets claiming a thread count over 1,000 – they’ve likely used creative math or ply manipulation to inflate that number. Focus on high-quality, durable, breathable natural fibers and you’re sure to get your beauty rest, no matter the thread count.

What is Thread Count?

Before diving into why incredibly high thread counts are a myth, it’s important to understand exactly what thread count refers to. Thread count is the number of threads woven into a square inch of fabric, including threads running lengthwise (warp) and widthwise (filling).

To calculate thread count, you would count the number of warp and filling threads contained in a square inch, and add those numbers together. For example, if there were 200 warp threads and 200 filling threads, the thread count would be 400.

Why Extremely High Thread Counts are a Myth

While it’s true that higher thread counts can result in fabrics that are more durable and have a smoother hand-feel, there is a plateau where increasing the thread count has no perceivable impact. Most textiles experts agree that a thread count somewhere between 300-600 is ideal for good quality cotton sheets.

When you start getting into thread counts over 1,000, there are actually some sacrifices being made in terms of breathability, durability, and feel. Sheets with extremely high thread counts tend to have thinner individual threads woven very tightly together. This super-dense weave can make the fabric feel more stiff and papery, not soft and smooth as you’d expect.

High thread count sheets are also more susceptible to pilling since the threads are so fine. And the ultra-tight weave can make for a less breathable material, potentially causing you to sleep warmer than you’d like.

What to Look for Instead of Thread Count

So if thread count isn’t the be-all and end-all, what factors should consumers consider when purchasing sheets? Here are some more important things to look for:

• Fibre Quality
  The quality of the cotton (or other natural fibre) used matters far more than thread count. Long-staple cotton fibres result in stronger yarns that create fabrics with a smoother, more durable feel. Look for long-staple varieties like Egyptian, Pima, or Supima cotton.
• Fabric Weight
  A fabric’s weight, measured in grams per square meter (GSM) is a better indicator of quality than thread count. Mid-weight fabrics around 300-400 GSM tend to feel durable yet breathable.
• Weave
  The type of weave used (percale, sateen, etc.) significantly impacts the hand-feel of sheets. Percale tends to feel crisp while sateen has more of a silky, lustrous finish.
• Finishing
  How the fabric is finished also plays a role. Look for fabrics that have been mercerized or combed for enhanced softness and durability.

While it’s understandable that consumers have been trained to equate higher thread counts with luxury, the truth is that incredibly inflated numbers are often just a marketing tactic used to justify higher price tags. Shoppers are better off focusing on other factors like long-staple fibers, fabric weight, weave, and finishing.

Be a savvy shopper and don’t get seduced by thread counts over 600-800. In fact, textiles experts suggest being wary of any sheets claiming a thread count over 1,000 – they’ve likely used creative math or ply manipulation to inflate that number. Focus on high-quality, durable, breathable natural fibers and you’re sure to get your beauty rest, no matter the thread count.