High thread count bed sheets are much advertised, but what exactly does “high thread” count mean? You know that it means quality and comfort, but if you have ever wondered what the term means technically, or how high a thread count should be, then read on.

Cotton and silk are woven fabrics. The number of threads used in their weaving are counted by the square inch. For example a thread count of 180 is a weave of 100 vertical threads per square inch, called the warp, and 80 horizontal, called the weft. Thread count can go as high as 800 or 1000 threads, but you can buy perfectly good bed linen with a thread count of 100.

The thickness of the thread is also a factor in this equation. The finer the thread the more of them there will be in one square inch, giving a higher thread count.

Another thing to be aware of is ply. Two ply fabric is made by twisting the yarns together before weaving, whereas single ply uses a single thread. Using two ply yarn doubles the thread count. So to compare the two remember that a single ply with a thread count of 100 is equal to a two ply with a count of 200.

A higher thread count is not necessarily better because the higher the thread count the thinner the fibers will be, unless it is 2 ply. Since 2 ply doubles the thread count the bed sheets will be heavier-not necessarily what you want. A thread count of between 100 and 400 is really quite sufficient, there is simply no need to pay for anything higher. if you are buying pure linen bed sheets, rather than cotton, a thread count of 100 is excellent since linen has thicker fibers.

A high thread count is not the only determinant of quality in bed sheets. The treatment that the cotton fiber has received, for example mercerizing, and the way in which the bed linen is woven and finished, all contribute to the quality of the finished product. Mercerizing cotton gives it strength and a sateen finish which accepts dyes more readily.

Now the only other information you will need before you buy is your mattress size. Check standard bed sheet sizes here: www.all-bed-linens.com/bed-sheet-sizes.html