There is a common misconception that higher thread count sheets are higher quality. Many people shop for the highest thread count without taking into account the type and feel of the fabric in question. In some cases, a lower thread count may actually be better. In our article, we discuss the meaning behind thread count and whether higher is actually better.
What is thread count?
Thread count is the number of threads, both horizontal (weft) and vertical (warp), woven into one square inch of fabric. So, if a sheet has 200 horizontal threads and 200 vertical threads per square inch, its thread count is 400.
Does a higher thread count mean better sheets?
Not necessarily. Higher thread count doesn't always mean better quality. In fact, it can sometimes mean the opposite.
Some manufacturers pack in short, low-quality threads just to boost the number, leading to fabric pilling and feeling rough.
Breathability and softness depend more on the material and yarn quality than the thread count. For example:
- 400-thread count bamboo sheets may feel much softer than 1000-thread count cotton ones
- Cotton is more breathable than polyester, even at the exact thread count.
What should you look for instead?
- Fabric type. High-quality fabrics usually include Egyptian cotton, bamboo, or linen.
- Yarn quality. Ideally, your sheets should have long, smooth threads, as these indicate softer, more durable fabric.
- Weave type. Depending on your preferences, you may prefer percale weave, which is crisp and cool, or something like sateen or satin weave, which is smooth and silky.
Great sheets aren’t about quantity of threads, but the quality of the fabric.
Quick reference: high-quality thread count by fabric type
| Fabric Type | High-Quality Thread Count Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton (Regular) | 200–400 | Look for long-staple cotton for softness and durability. |
| Egyptian Cotton | 300–600 | Premium option with long fibers; softer at lower thread counts. |
| Percale Weave | 200–400 | Crisp, breathable cotton weave ideal for warm sleepers. Percale means that the threads are woven in a ‘one over, one under’ process to create the weave. |
| Satin Weave | 300–600 | Smoother and silkier than percale; slightly warmer feel. The thread goes four over, one under, four over, one under in an alternating pattern. |
| Bamboo Viscose | 250–350 | Naturally soft and breathable; thread count less important. |
| Linen | N/A | Measured by grams per square metre; avoid high thread count — lower is better for softness. |
| Silk | N/A | Measured in momme; look for 19–25 momme for high-quality silk sheets. |
| Polyester Blends | 200–300 | It is not as breathable; it is often mixed with cotton for affordability. |
Note that some materials are not suited to measurement by thread count; instead, they are measured in momme (weight) or GSM (grams per square metre)
Top 3 things to look for when buying bed sheets
Investing in good bedding isn’t just about aesthetics — it can genuinely improve your sleep.
1. The fabric itself
- Natural fibres usually indicate better breathability. Cotton, bamboo, and linen allow your skin to breathe and regulate temperature naturally.
- Blends can compromise comfort. Polyester blends are cheaper but trap heat and reduce airflow — not ideal for hot sleepers.
2. Workmanship & style
The quality and care that go into making sheets makes a difference in how they feel, how well they handle washing, and how long they will last overall. Check your bedding for:
- Deep pillowcase openings so pillows stay put.
- Easy-to-use quilt closures (no fiddly buttons or ties).
- Neat seams and finishes, which signal better craftsmanship.
3. Thoughtful, practical design
Look for sheets that are easy to swap and change. These features are usually the most helpful:
- Corner tags for fitted sheets.
- Hidden zippers instead of buttons.
- Durable stitching.
Tip: A well-made sheet typically has 5 stitches per centimetre. If it’s only 2–3, it might not last long.
