Thread counts of 800–1000 or more likely use multi-ply threads which are more expensive and less durable with limited benefits. So in terms of thread count alone, anything around 200–400 will be good quality and comfortable, broadly speaking.
Though there's no standard measurement, high thread count sheets typically have more than 400 threads woven into one square inch of fabric. Thread counts can reach higher than 1,000, though that's not always an indicator of quality.
A thread count of 600 is the highest possible for single ply sheets. These sheets tend to be less expensive than 800 thread count.
Don't choose high thread counts.
However, thread count greatly affects heat and higher thread counts create hotter sheets. In fact, 1000TC sheets are the hottest cotton sheets you can buy. Conversely, lower thread counts (250TC-350TC 10cm2) create cooler sheets but must be made from good cotton so they last.
It's simple – it's the number of vertical (warp) threads and horizontal (weft) threads in a square inch of fabric. Theoretically, a higher number should mean softer, better quality sheets. But many manufacturers use creative counting methods to give you sheets with up to 1200 thread count on the label.
Thread counts of 800–1000 or more likely use multi-ply threads which are more expensive and less durable with limited benefits. So in terms of thread count alone, anything around 200–400 will be good quality and comfortable, broadly speaking.
Thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads per square inch. Generally, the higher the thread count, the softer the sheet, and the more likely it will wear well — or even soften — over time. Good sheets range anywhere from 200 to 800, although you'll occasionally see numbers over 1,000.
What's the best thread count for sheets? In our tests, top-rated bed sheets often have thread counts between 300 and 500. Anything above 500 isn't necessarily better (so don't be deceived when you see thread counts over 1,500), and on the flip side, you can still find quality sheets with thread counts under 300.
Related Articles. Egyptian-cotton sheets, especially those with a high-thread count, are prized for durability and softness. These sheets get softer over time, but may not feel very soft when they are new and straight out of the package, because of chemicals embedded in the material during manufacturing.
The microfiber polyester fabric is very soft and feels great at first touch. However, it's also very thin. So thin, in fact, that you're able to see your hand through the fabric.
Also, for good-quality bedding, look for a thread count between 180-300. Anything higher than a 300-thread count means the sheets and duvet covers will start to feel heavier. This will result in suffocating the airflow around your body while you sleep.
Luxury sheets have no limits on thread count or price. Generally, the more you pay, the better sheets you get. Most hotels use sheets with a thread count of 250 while high-end hotels use sheets with a 300 thread count. Some luxury hotels even use sheets of 600 or 800 thread counts, but it varies from hotel to hotel.
Most hotel bed sheets are high-quality cotton, though you'll occasionally find hotel bed sheets made from linen. Look for durable and soft cotton, like Egyptian and Supima, and keep up with cleaning your sheets and bed so your bedroom feels like a luxury hotel.
High thread count sheets use cotton threads that are thinner than regular yarns, so when they're exposed to high temperatures, they're much more likely to break. These sheets should be washed in warm water and dried in the dryer on a cool setting.
Hotels use commercial detergents and fabric softeners. These are “commercial use only” products. Commercial fabric softeners include certain chemicals – like phosphates – that get laundry remarkably clean and make the sheets feel so smooth and soft.
The kernel parameter threads-max controls the maximum number of threads. This parameter is defined in the file /proc/sys/kernel/threads-max. Here, the output 63704 indicates that the kernel can execute a maximum of 63,704 threads.
Egyptian cotton can come in a range of thread counts, typically from 200 to 800.
Egyptian cotton sheets typically get softer and smoother with each washing. While they may start out a bit rougher, they should get a buttery texture over time.
Your new sheets may feel stiff and rough because of the manufacturing process. New sheets are often treated with chemicals to make the sheets look and feel crisp and new, which is one reason we highly recommend washing your sheets before use. Luckily, new sheets soften up with regular washing.
Anything with a thread count nearing (or above) 1000 thread count is almost certain to be significantly lower quality than sheets with a more reasonable number. Most fabrics with a thread count over 600 are a sign of deceptive marketing tactics at work.
“Too high of a thread count means that air doesn't circulate well and you'll sleep hot." Percale thread counts are lower simply because the plain weave allows for fewer threads in a square inch. Gopinath told us this made percale lighter and cooler, which is preferable in hotter temperatures or for hot sleepers.
Egyptian cotton sheets are often considered the height of luxury. They're prized for their superior softness, durability, and breathability. The distinct feel of Egyptian cotton sheets come from the unique properties of Egyptian cotton itself.
Egyptian cotton is favored because it has a very long fiber, which allows it to be spun into fine, soft and durable yarns.
Grown in the Nile River Valley, 100 percent pure Egyptian cotton features extra-long staple fibers that weave together into the finest yarns and fabrics. At once silky soft and delightfully durable, Egyptian cotton holds up for hundreds of washes without every tearing or pilling.
The best sheets typically have a thread count between 200 and 400. Any thread count lower than 180 tends to have a rougher texture. Any number over 400 is most likely an inflated figure due to multi-ply thread, meaning you'll pay a premium price for a sheet that doesn't actually feel any softer.