Have you ever walked into a store looking for a new bedsheet in Singapore only to be surrounded by different, confusing bedsheet thread counts? Numbers range from 300, 750, 1000, and even 1200 thread count sheets! Something you might also notice is that as the count increases, so does the price.
For a very long time, consumers have been mistakenly made to focus on the thread count of bedsheets to determine the luxury of sheets. The higher the number, the better, right?
Unfortunately, this does not always hold true!
While it matters to a certain extent (and only if in a certain range), it’s not the be-all and end-all of quality bedding. Let’s break down this common bedding myth about high thread count sheets in Singapore.
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What Is Thread Count For Sheets?
Are you one of the many people who wonder: what does thread count mean? By definition, thread count (TC) is a measure of the total number of threads woven vertically (the warp) and horizontally (the weft) into one square inch of fabric. It is a unit of textile measurement for bed sheets and other types of fabrics such as shirts.
When more threads are packed tightly together, the resulting fabric is softer and smoother.
Is A Higher Thread Count Better? The Truth Explained
Think about this: only that many pieces of thread can fit into a specific space. With cotton bedding, the maximum number of threads is around 600. How then do brands achieve those huge numbers?
Knowing that thread count has a huge influence on the consumer’s decision, many manufacturers employ some creative math to manipulate their numbers as a promotional strategy.
How Highest Thread Count Bed Sheets Are Made
1. Using Weaker, Multi-Ply Threads
To better understand thread count sheets' meaning, let us look at a key variable - the fabric's ply. When working with strong and long cotton fibers, they can be twisted around to form a single-ply. On the other hand, multi-ply threads (such as two-ply or 3-ply) are formed when multiple strands of thread are twisted together. These strands are often weaker, cheaper and short-staple cotton threads twisted together in an attempt to increase their strength and durability before being woven.
The strands in each ply are then counted to give its high number. Here’s a simple example.
By definition, an honest 600 thread count single-ply bed sheet has 300 vertical threads and 300 horizontal threads:
300 + 300 threads = 600 thread count
Take another bed sheet made using double-ply cotton - It still has 300 threads each way, but because each thread has two strands, marketers include that in their calculation:
(300 + 300 threads ) x 2 ply = 1200 thread count
Compared to single-ply thread sheets, bedding made with multi-ply threads are less breathable, denser, and more scratchy on the skin. They also have a higher tendency of pilling due to the shorter threads used.
2. Using A “Metric” System
There are two systems for measuring threads – Metric and Imperial measurement.
The “metric” system is where the number of threads in a 10 cm square area is counted instead of the one (1) cm square area by definition. This increases thread count by 50% without improving the sheets. This also means that you would be paying for a lesser thread count than you actually thought.
What Is A Good Thread Count For Sheets?
Generally, the maximum thread count a square inch area can pack is around 600. Look for sheets with a minimum thread count of 400. While anything above 500 thread count is excellent, do also be wary of excessively high numbers.
When Does Bed Sheets' High Thread Count Matter?
Only when the material is 100% long or extra-long staple cotton with singly-ply threads does a higher number imply higher quality. Smoother and finer yarns are used in high thread count cotton bed sheets. Cheap cotton sheets, on the other hand, might irritate delicate skin owing to itching and restricted air movement.
5 Factors That Affect Bedsheet Quality
Thread count is just one of the many factors that affect the way a fabric feels and performs. What matters more are the fiber quality and raw materials. We share with you things that make a great set of quality, long-lasting cotton sheets:
- Staple Length: Long or extra-long staple (ELS) cotton for luxurious softness and smoothness
- Ply: Single-ply for durability and breathability
- Weave Method: Cotton sateen for smooth and lustrous sheen and cotton percale for a breathable, crisp feel
- Thread Count: Any above 400 TC is good but beyond 600 bed thread count for bed sheets might be questionable
- Yarn count: Higher yarn count range from 80s to 100s for finer threads and a lightweight, softer, and smoother fabric
Note, however, that the best thread count may vary according to the fabric type. For instance, TENCEL™ Lyocell sheets may have a lower range, ideally between 300-400. And linen sheets have way lower - 80-150 TC.
Find High-Quality Bedding At Weavve
At Weavve, we set out to create quality bedding products that you will love each day. All our sheets are also Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, meaning that they are made and tested free from common harmful toxins.
Cotton Sateen Sheets
Our cotton sheet sets are created from 100% pure cotton fibers, single-ply, an honest 600 thread count, and sateen weave - everything that speaks premium quality! Stronger, more comfortable sheets are also produced with the use of extra-long staple cotton and fine 100 yarn threads. We work with a leading factory to ensure consistent top quality.
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