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.
Despite the low price and the fact that they are soft, the Sweet Home Collection 1500 Thread Count Sheet Set isn't a good value in the long run. We purchased the Sweet Home Collection 1500 Thread Count Sheet Set so our expert reviewer could put it to the test in her home.
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.
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.
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.
A sheet should be at least 200 thread count to be considered good quality - a count typical of cotton sheets. Higher thread count sheets range from 300 to 800 and up, but 300 to 500 are common ranges for sheets made from Egyptian cotton, sateen, and bamboo.
No, probably not. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
According to the many experts we've interviewed, really good sheets—the ones that feel soft and wear well after years of use and washing—generally have thread counts ranging from 200 to 600, depending on whether they're percale or sateen.
That's why hotels generally use low thread count sheets (250TC). Fewer threads require less cotton, less cotton means lower costs, and this allows hotels to get quality for a reasonable price.
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.
Looking for sheets with a reasonable thread count (200-600 for most styles) will typically produce the best results. Be sure to modify your expectations somewhat depending on the material used. Excessively high thread counts (600-800) likely won't change much beyond the price tag.
The ideal thread count for soft and durable bed sheets is actually between 300 and 500.
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.
If keeping cool is your priority, look for low thread count sheets in the range of 180 to 280. This way, you can be sure your bedding is soft and built to last while also allowing for steady airflow while you sleep.
Egyptian cotton can come in a range of thread counts, typically from 200 to 800.
The highest thread count you should look for is 1,000. Anything above that number is unnecessary and often lower quality. This is because manufacturers use thinner cotton to cram in as many threads as possible, increasing the ply or the number of single threads twisted together.
In fact, as thread counts increase, fabrics can become denser and warmer because there are more threads of yarn per square inch, especially if a multi-ply yarn is used. For example, 1,000-thread-count sheets tend to feel heavy and warm because the excess threads can make the fabric less breathable.
The logic behind why a higher thread count is better makes sense: all things being equal, higher thread counts require finer threads (the better to fit into a square inch), and the finer the threads you use, the softer, smoother, and more tightly woven (and thus, stronger) the fabric should be.
That means there are 1000 threads per 10 square centimetres, counted along two sides of a square that is 3.16cm wide and 3.16cm high, distributed across the warp (up/down) and weft (across).
The highest thread count for sheets is usually 1,000. Anything above that number is often lower quality.
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.