What Is Thread Count in Sheets?
Quality bedding ensures quality shut-eye. Sheets are an important element of comfortable bedding. Conventional wisdom advises that the higher the thread count, the better the sheet. However, higher thread counts come with a higher price tag and other elements such as the type of thread used and the overall texture of the fabric are important too. Does this Spark an idea?
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Definition
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Thread count is the number of threads per one-inch square of fabric, including vertical (warp) and horizontal (weft) threads woven together. How the thread count affects the texture and durability of a fabric is strongly affected by the thickness and type of threads used, and the ply of the fabric. For higher thread counts, sometimes two-ply yarns are used and extra yarns called "picks" are inserted into the weft.
Expert Insight
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Thread count makes a difference in the quality of sheets, but some experts argue that the increased comfort or value of thread counts of over 300 is minuscule . Depending on the quality of the construction and the fiber used, a 300-count sheet can have a superior texture to that of a 1000-thread count. High quality sheets have a thread count of at least 180. Higher thread count sheets tend to be smoother and more resistant to pilling. Ply refers to the number of individual yarns used in a strand. Double-ply sheets are more durable than single-ply sheets, but depending on the yarn-size used, can feel heavy. Yarn size is the thickness of the thread woven together to make fabric. The higher the size, the finer the yarn.
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Misconceptions
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Since the 90s, thread-count has been portrayed as the element to consider when looking for quality sheets. A direct result of this consumer obsession is the manipulation of thread count by some manufacturers as reported on by ABC News. To achieve higher thread counts, manufacturers commonly insert picks or threads between the weave. For example, if using a construction with single pick between a single-ply weave, the highest thread count possible would be 400. It follows that sheets with higher thread counts have to be using double-ply yarns and multiple picks, both of which can result in a bulkier and rougher sheet. However, fine two-ply yarns (those with a very high yarn size) make a smooth, light-weight sheet.
Considerations
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If you don't like the way sheets look or feel, don't buy them merely because they have the thread count you desire. When considering price, don't forget that sheets are an investment, and if cared for properly can last more than 20 years. High thread count sheets are expensive, but their tight weave and quality thread make them more comfortable, longer lasting and less likely to shrink than cheaper sheets. For warmer climates and hot summer months, a percale weave is cool and crisp, with a 200 to 300 thread count. Sateen weave sheets have a 500 to 600 thread count and a softer, silkier texture. The fiber used in your sheets is important as well, as different fibers will stand up to time and use in different ways. Cotton sheets are cool and comfortable, but wrinkle more than polyester-cotton blends.
Warning
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If a sheet has a high-thread count, and a low price tag, be suspicious. In 2006, seven out of eight sheets tested by the Good Housekeeping Institute failed thread count tests, and found that many manufacturers were exaggerating their thread count by three to five times. While the textile industry rewrote its voluntary standard to clarify that thread counts should be based on threads, not individual strands or plies within a thread, it is to be noted that it's just that, voluntary. The Fair Trade Commission has ruled that plied yarns should only be counted as one thread for thread count, but this is not generally enforced.
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References
- Photo Credit woman in bed image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com
