When it comes to buying sheets, everyone talks about the importance of thread count, but do you really know what the thread means? Some people assume that thread count is just another marketing gimmick to sell more sheets, while others swear that it makes a difference. For such a simple concept, there is a lot myth and mystery shrouded around it. Here is a quick look at what the thread count really is and what you need to know about your sheet thread count.

What is the Definition of the Sheet Thread Count?

By definition, the thread count is the number of thread woven to together within a single square inch. In order to get the thread count, manufactures look at both the threads that run lengthwise as well as widthwise. So your standard 200 thread count means that 100 threads are horizontal and 100 threads are vertical.

What is a “Good” Thread Count for Your Sheets?

According to the Consumer Report, a sheet thread count of 200 should be considered satisfactory, however a thread count of 400 can be noticeably softer. However, this is where the agreement ends. Some argue that once you hit 400 there is not much difference, aside from price, by getting a higher thread count. On the other hand, there are a lot of people who gladly pay extra because they can feel the difference.

The Dirty Little Secret

You might be thinking about a set of sheets with an impossibly high thread count like 1,200 and be wondering how great it could really be. A better question is whether or not this is even possible. In the most basic terms, it simply isn\’t possible. So how do thread counts get so high? The reason that thread counts can get impossibly high is because manufactures count the “plies” instead of the thread. A plie is the fiber that is used to make the thread. This means that a single thread could have 2 or 4 plies twisted together for each thread. If you still don\’t understand what a ply is, then think about your toilet paper. Single-ply paper has one layer whereas double-ply has two layers of paper for each sheet of toilet paper. That means that a sheet with an 800 thread count, could really only have 200 thread with 3 plies per thread.

Moreover, in many cases the thread count is exactly correct. In fact, there have been numerous reports where a sheet advertised a certain thread count and hit well below the mark. One of the most notable as done by the Consumer Reports where a sheet set that cost nearly $300 and boasted a 1,200 thread count. An independent lab found that the actual thread count what only 416. Although it has 3-ply thread, thus the stated 1,200 thread count.

So Where Does This Leave Us?

In short, thread count is important, but only to a certain point. If you are choosing between a 200 and 400 thread count, then 400 will almost always be noticeably more comfortable. However, after that it is still anyones guess.

Author Bio: Jason Kay recommends reading customer reviews of high thread count sheets to find the right sheets for you.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: high thread count sheets, luxury sheets