When shopping for pure cotton bedsheets online or any other bedding material, for that matter, you may have noticed the term “thread count” being thrown around. Thread count is often used as a measure of quality when it comes to bedsheets, but what is thread count in bedsheets, and how does it affect the quality of your bedding?
What Is Thread Count?
Thread count refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. This number is determined by adding the number of horizontal threads (known as the “weft”) and vertical threads (known as the “warp”) in the fabric. For example, if a fabric has 100 horizontal threads and 100 vertical threads, the thread count would be 200.
How Does Thread Count Affect Quality?
The general perception is that the higher the thread count, the better the quality of the bedding. However, this isn’t always the case. A higher thread count doesn’t necessarily mean that the fabric is of better quality or that the sheets will feel softer or more luxurious. In fact, there are many other factors that can affect the quality of a bedsheet, such as the type of material, the weave and the finishing techniques used to make the sheet.
When it comes to thread count, a number between 200 and 800 is generally considered to be the sweet spot. Duvet covers with a thread count of 200 or below may feel rough and scratchy, while sheets with a thread count of 800 or above may be too heavy and stifling to sleep comfortably in.
One place where you can guarantee to find quality home furnishing products, including cotton bedsheets, pillow covers and many more, that are customizable to your needs is Thoppia – where the art of weaving is mastered.
All of Thoppia’s bedsheets attain that sweet spot for thread count. Our thread count is maintained in the range of 200-250 and our products are made with 100% pure cotton fabric.
It’s also important to note that thread count alone isn’t always an accurate measure of quality. Some manufacturers may use a technique known as “double-ply” or “triple-ply” to artificially inflate the thread count of their sheets. This technique involves twisting two or three threads together before weaving them into the fabric, effectively doubling or tripling the thread count. While this may sound impressive, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the sheets are of better quality. In fact, double-ply sheets may be thicker and heavier, which can make them feel less breathable and more uncomfortable to sleep in.
What Should You Look For Instead?
The Fabric
Instead of focusing solely on the thread count, it’s important to consider other factors that can affect the quality of your bedding. For example, the type of material used is a major factor in determining the feel and durability of your sheets. Cotton is a popular choice for bedding because it is soft, breathable, and durable. Egyptian cotton and Pima cotton are both considered to be high-quality cotton due to their long fibers, which result in stronger, smoother yarns.
Similar to cotton, Linen bed sheets are also a popular fabric choice. They are more breathable than cotton as it is made from flax fibers, which are hollow and allow more air to circulate through the fabric, and it has a slightly rougher texture than cotton, which can feel cool and crisp against the skin. Thoppia offers a collection of both cotton and linen bedsheets with contemporary designs and elegant color selections, which you can customize in scale.
The Type of Weave
When it comes to the type of weave, there are many that ensure good quality such as percale, sateen, twill and jersey to name a few. To pick one among them is out of question as it depends on personal preferences.
At Thoppia, we use the twill weave and consider it the best choice for bed sheets. It is a textile weave that creates a diagonal pattern in the fabric which results in more durable and strong bedding.
Finishing
It is also important to consider the finishing techniques used to make the sheets, as it affects the overall look, feel, and durability of the bedding. Sheets that have been “combed” or “mercerized” have undergone additional treatments that can make them softer and more durable.
Finishing can also help to improve the appearance of the bedding by reducing wrinkles, eliminating pilling, and preventing colors from fading. This is especially important for sheets and pillowcases, which are highly visible and frequently washed.
Embrace Your Personality
Finally, don’t forget about personal preference. Ultimately, the quality of your bedding comes down to how it feels to you. Some people may prefer a lighter, more breathable cotton double bedsheet with a lower thread count, while others may prefer a heavier, more luxurious sheet with a higher thread count. The key is to find a sheet that feels comfortable and suits your needs.
While thread counts can be a useful indicator of quality, there are other factors to consider when selecting your dream bedding. Pay attention to the type of material, finishing techniques, type of weaving and of course, your personal preference to find a high-quality sheet that feels soft, comfortable, and durable.
When it comes to quality, we do not compromise. Do explore our products and find those designs that have been elusive from your reach.
