Here's What the Best Thread Count for Sheets Actually Is
Finally, we get some answers.
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IDK about you, but when I pick out bedsheets, I usually keep two factors in mind: First, they've gotta be super cute, and also they've gotta have a super high thread count. But it wasn't until recently that I learned that, while both are solid traits in a quality bedsheet, a high thread count isn't actually that necessary. So what is the best thread count for sheets, anyway? Obvi, I had to consult an expert.
Thread count refers to the number of yarns per square inch of fabric, says Margaret Bishop, a textiles and business professor at Parsons School of Design and Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. It's a myth that the higher the thread count, the higher the quality of sheets they are, she adds.
Now, here's where it gets tricky: Sheets with higher thread count tend to be more expensive—and since a sky-high thread count doesn't always guarantee it's the softest set of sheets, this can be really misleading to people who just want to pick up a set of dreamy sheets that are actually worth their hard-earned cash.
Sure, you can tell the difference in quality between a 100-thread count bedsheet and a 500-thread count one. But if we're talking 400-count versus 600-count, well, there's not that much of a difference. "When you approach a 700 or above thread-count bedsheet, the distinction becomes almost meaningless," Bishop says. Besides, it's only one of three characteristics you should consider when shopping for comfy bedsheets, anyway (the other two being the type of weave and fiber content—but we can get into that another day).
And another fun lil thread factoid: The fabric of the sheets will usually indicate where the count hovers. According to the Sleep Foundation, cotton is at about a 200 to 400 thread count, Egyptian cotton is between 300 and 400, and bamboo usually has between 300 and 500. Ugh, we love a good guidance key.
Ultimately, good quality bedsheets typically have between a 250 and 600 thread count—no need to go any higher than that. So, if you're in the market to pick up a new set of bedsheets, then scroll through for the best ones, according to each tier of thread count.
This organic bamboo set feels like sleeping on clouds. Def a solid choice.
If you're interested in uber-comfy smooth sleeping, but want some added color variety, you've gotta peep the collection over at the California Design Den.
Not only are these a dream to sleep on, but they're also wrinkle-free. Who wants a crumpled up sheet set???
Ok yes, I know we said a high thread count doesn't guarantee softness...but sometimes the two occurrences just so happen to overlap! This is one of those times.
These sheets may have a lower thread count, but they're still soft as heck. Crisp, breathable, and they come with a 365-night sleep trial so you can try 'em out risk-free.
If you like that sateen feel, go for this set. It has a refreshing effect, making it great for hot sleepers.
Supima is a superior and rare type of cotton, and one that Bishop recommends. In fact, it accounts for less than one percent of cotton grown in the world. This, combined with a 400-count sateen weave, is a top-of-the-line ~luxury~. So rest assured, you'll be sleepin' fancy (and cozy!) under these bbs.
Lightweight, durable, and ultra smooth—now here's a sheet set that's worthy of the investment.
Who woulda thought that the least expensive sheets would end up having one of the highest thread counts? Made from Egyptian cotton, these are one of the highest-rated sheets on Amazon. Not only are they soft, but they also have that crisp hotel feel. I promise ya, you'll feel like you paid a whole lot more than you actually did.
Sorry, but there was absolutely no way I was gonna wax poetic about bedsheets and not mention topping off your dream bedding situation with some cute pillows. Go on and have your pick—but Bolé Road Textiles has some of the best, I'm just sayin'.
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