Is there any such thing as the best thread count for bed sheets? A sleep editor investigates

If you've ever tried shopping for sheets, whether online or in-store, you've probably come across the term 'thread count'. People say that, the higher the thread count, the better the quality of the sheets. I wanted to work out whether there's any truth behind that statement or whether it's an old wives' tale.

As resident Sleep Editor here at Homes & Gardens, I lead a team of expert testers in the search to find the world's best bed sheets. For the sake of a fair fight, we assess each sheet set against the same criteria: look and feel; thermoregulation; and durability. I've combed through our back catalog of reviews to see whether higher thread counts automatically equate to better-quality sheets.

Spoiler alert: I don't think it does. I spoke with an expert panel of bedding designers, who tend to agree that other factors are more important than thread count when you shop for sheets. Your time and money is better spent weighing up the pros and cons of different bed sheet types and weaves than it is agonising over thread count.

Is there any such thing as the best thread count for bed sheets?

Before we begin, it always helps to define our terms. I asked Fredrik Kempe, Founder and CEO at PROSSIONI, to tell us more about how bedding brands calculate thread count and what it means for you, the consumer.

What is thread count?

'Thread count refers to the number of threads woven in one square inch of fabric,' says Fredrik. 'You've got warp threads (which run vertically, up and down) and weft threads (which run horizontally, side to side). A cotton sheet with 150 warp threads and 150 weft threads in each square inch of fabric would have a listed thread count of 300.'

'To some extent, a high thread count is an indicator of quality,' Fredrik concedes, 'but don't be fooled by thread counts of 600 or more, which often result in overly thick and unventilated fabrics. Also, many manufacturers use multiple yarns (two-ply or multi-ply) to create the impression of double the thread count, but a low-grade feel.'

What is the best thread count for bed sheets?

In my experience testing bed sheets, thread count only really matters when it comes to 100% cotton. A higher thread count often indicates smoother, finer yarns, which feel softer on your skin than thick, coarse fibers.

'In general, there isn't a single optimal thread count for sheets,' says Lori Miller, Principal, LGC Interior Design. 'Certain bedding yarns are larger and thicker than others, so it's important to remember that it's not an apples-to-apples comparison most of the time. For example, linen fibers are significantly larger than that of cotton, so linen sheet thread counts are always lower than sateen and percale cotton sheets.'

'You typically don’t want to go below 180 thread count for any woven sheet material,' Lori continues. 'While a sheet below 180 may feel super light and breathable, the fabric isn’t strong enough to withstand normal use and routine wash cycles. Also, there are certain sheet types where thread count really doesn’t apply. Any knit materials, such as jersey sheets, are not woven, so there are no vertical/horizontal threads to count. Certain sheet materials, like flannel sheets, are measured by weight, not thread count. For these fabrics, you should look at another specification: grams per square meter (GSM) to denote weight. But again, that’s not necessarily a measure of quality.'

'Always prioritize the material over the thread count,' advises Parima Ijaz, the brains behind the luxury bedding brand, Pure Parima. High-quality Egyptian cotton and fabrics made with extra-long staple fibers create luxuriously soft, durable sheets. As a matter of fact, extra-long staple fibers cannot produce extremely high thread counts. To inflate thread counts, some companies use shorter staple fibers woven together, which compromises quality while driving up the price. While a higher thread count can indicate a denser weave, it often reduces breathability and isn’t the primary factor for durability. The type of fabric, the weave, and the finishing processes are just as important.'

FAQs

What thread count do hotels use?

Most hotels use cotton percale sheets with a thread count somewhere between 200 and 300. These sorts of middling thread counts tend to feel lighter and more breathable and they can withstand the wear and tear of regular cycles in the washing machine.

Which bed sheet types are the best quality?

Which bed sheet types are best for you depends on your sleep style, your budget, and the weather. Cotton is a classic for a reason and comes in two distinct weaves: sateen feels silky and smooth, while percale is crisp and cool. Personally, I like the slightly coarser look and feel of the best linen sheets, and I'd encourage you to embrace the wrinkles as part of their natural charm. For eco-conscious shoppers, I recommend bamboo or eucalyptus.

Over the course of my career, I've sampled dozens of sheet sets, and I've come across a few duds. Whether you're shopping in-store or online, you're bound to encounter some cheap sheets that look and feel low-quality. To get the most for your money, I suggest you only shop with the best places to buy bedding.

Setting too much store by thread count is one of the biggest bedding mistakes you can make, along with shopping the wrong size for your mattress and choosing the wrong material for your sleep style. I spoke with an expert panel of product testers and bedding designers to better understand bedding mistakes and suggest some solutions.