Over the last decade or so the "thread count" number has become the top measure of quality for bed sheets. It seems simple, right? The higher, the better? Well, no, sorry it's really not that simple.
1. Thread count is simply the number of warp and weft threads in one square in of fabric. Over a certain level (say 300 thread count) it is really no measure of quality whatsoever.
2. Fiber quality is more important than thread count in determining bedding quality. What are those threads made of? Egyptian cotton? (sweet!), poly cotton? (ugghh)
3. Yarn size is also more important. Yarn size is the measure of how fine the threads that make up the fabric are. The higher the yarn size, the more fine. Finer threads facilitate higher thread counts because you can fit more of them into a square inch; they also produce lighter more supple fabrics.
4. The construction of a bedding fabric refers not only to its thread count but to the ply (2 ply, 3 ply) of thread used, and to the number of threads (picks) used in the weft. After a certain point (about 400 thread count), with a single ply, single weft construction it is impossible to achieve higher thread counts. After that, the most common methods are using plied yarns or multiple threads in the weft.
5. There is, in practice, no industry agreement on the use of plied threads. Package labeling is not required to disclose the use of 2 ply of 3 ply threads. (a 300 thread count that is made with 2 ply yarn may be labeled as 600 thread count)
6. Trying to find the highest thread count for the lowest price is a fool's errand.
7. Have you ever felt a 1200 thread count? It is so heavy and feels as thick as a blanket.
8. If you asked industry insiders what their preferred thread count was, it would be 300 - 400 thread count.
9. European companies generally do not quote thread count. (Pratesi, Frette, etc.)
10. You can buy 1000 thread count at Walmart for $100, enough said.
