More important than the color or pattern in making your selection is the thread count. The higher
the thread count, the softer and more durable the sheet will be. Thread count refers to the number of threads woven into one square
inch of fabric. The higher the thread count, the softer and smoother are the bed linens. Thread count also determines whether a sheet
is muslin or percale. Sheets with a
thread count of 140 to 180 are muslin; everything higher is percale. The most common percale
sheets have thread counts of 180 to 200. Higher quality sheets have a 250 to 300 thread count and feel silky to the touch. Look
for a minimum thread count of 200 when selecting sheets (for cotton/polyester sheets, 220 or more is a good choice). Sheets with a
very high thread count (300 to 400) are
considered luxury quality.
Single ply construction made from quality cottons creates a smooth, soft, and lighter weight
sheet with billowy feel and can be woven into sateen, percale, or twill weaves. Multi ply construction is used in very high thread count
sheets and creates a stronger, denser, and smooth sheet with less residual shrinkage, and can be woven into sateen and twill weaves. In
multi ply sheets, each "ply" is counted as a separate thread for thread count purposes because each ply consists of an ultra fine continuous
single thread. Modern technology has allowed sheet manufacturers to either weave sheets in an innovative way or add a finishing process
that gives the fabric a unique feel. In a sateen weave, two threads are woven over one, to give a silky hand. A brushed finish is
a process that adds softness to the fabric.
There are various grades of cotton used in the production of linens. For comfort and durability,
one-hundred-percent cotton is a natural, breathable fabric and is still king in the manufacture of luxury bedding. About 90 percent of
all sheets in the U.S. are woven from American upland cotton, which is grown in the southern tier of states from Virginia to California.
However, sheets (and clothing) with a
higher thread count are also woven from extra-long-staple cottons. Egyptian cotton has long,
staple fibers that result in the most durable, soft, and luxurious sheets. Sleeping on Egyptian cotton bedding is
considered to be the most luxurious night’s sleep and worth every penny.
Flannel sheets are typically used in cold climates or in winter because the napped finish provides warmth.
Cotton/polyester blend sheets (50/50 or 60/40) resist wrinkling but can be stiff. Look for a high thread count (above 220) to ensure quality in cotton-polyester
blends. Since polyester does not "breathe", it is hot and uncomfortable. Look for wrinkle-resistant cotton sheets as an alternative to
stiff cotton-polyester blends. Machine-washable, combed cotton percale with a thread count of 200-250 will
provide long wear and will be breathable to provide more comfort.
Silk satin sheets are ideal for cold climates because the material traps warmth. These sheets feel smooth and luxurious, but they are expensive and must be dry-cleaned.
Avoid satin-style sheets made of polyester; they feel scratchy against the skin. If you try them for the ambience, you will soon be replacing them with your comfy cotton
sheets.
Not all sheets fit all beds. Measure your mattress depth before purchasing sheets. If you have an extra deep mattress, buy sheets
that will fit!
