One of the first things most people notice when shopping for bed sheets is the thread count. That’s because we’ve all been led to believe that a high thread count equals high-quality sheets. The funny thing is, this isn’t always the case. Most of what you’re paying for with high thread count sheets is the marketing. Don’t fall for the hype.
What is Thread Count Anyway?
Thread count represents the number of threads in one square inch of fabric. It can range from 100 up to 1200. Higher thread count doesn’t necessarily mean that the fabric will feel comfortable and lush. It also doesn’t guarantee that the sheets will hold their shape over time.
Unfortunately, most manufacturers and retailers tend to use various methods to inflate thread count to attract customers. One of the ways they do this is by using low-grade cotton that gets thinner once spun. This allows them to cram more threads into a smaller space while degrading the overall quality of the sheets. Unfortunately, this marketing gimmick seems to work because most people go crazy the moment they see “1000 thread count sheets” emblazoned on the packaging.
How to Choose the Right Bedding?
The process of making bedsheets involves more than just thread count.
That’s why you must consider a wide range of factors when shopping for bed sheets too. For instance, you should look out for things like fiber quality, weave, finish, yarn, the origin of the fabric and the manufacturing process used to make the sheets. Let’s take a closer look at a few of these variables to give you a better idea of what they represent and why they’re so important:
Fiber
Fiber quality is what determines the weight, softness and durability of your sheets. Fine, long-staple, combed cotton yarns make for softer, smoother and stronger sheets.
Yarn
When it comes to threads, size does matter. Yarn size for sheets ranges from 40 to 100, and it varies depending on the fabric. They can be single-ply or individual fibers twisted into one strand of yarn, or multi-ply where two or more threads are twisted together.
Now, this is where it gets tricky. You see, a lot of manufacturers use the multi-ply method to fool people into thinking that they’re buying a high thread count sheet. What they’ll do is they’ll twist two or even four threads together before weaving them into the fabric. This allows them to double or quadruple the thread count so they can market it as a high thread count sheet. But, this process doesn’t necessarily improve the strength or the softness of the fabric. Instead, it makes the sheets heavier and less supple, which means higher thread count alone does not guarantee a comfortable sheet.
Fabric
You must also consider the fabric that the sheets are made from. The fabric you choose can make a massive difference in terms of comfort, style and care.
Bedding fabric can be made from natural or man-made fibers or both. Examples of natural fibers are cotton, Bamboo Lyocell, silk and wool which are derived from plant protein.
You also have synthetic fibers that are man-made from petrochemicals, like polyester, nylon and acrylic. Natural fibers are more absorbent and porous when compared to synthetics. This makes them more breathable and responsive to changes in body temperature and humidity.
Optimal Thread Count for Bamboo Lyocell Sheets
An optimal thread count of 300-400 gives HyggeB Bamboo Sheets a luxuriously soft feel. Bamboo Lyocell Sheets tick all the boxes needed for a good bedsheet, which includes breathability, comfort and being wrinkle-resistant. Most importantly, they’re affordable
How is this possible?
Firstly, bamboo fibers are naturally elongated. The warp and weft of bamboo fiber sheets are usually the same both ways, and this weaving method is what gives them such excellent quality at a low thread count. Bamboo Lyocell sheets don’t trap in a lot of heat, so they don’t get hot, and they can last for years without declining in feel and performance.
There’s also the fact that HyggeB Bamboo Lyocell sheets are made from sustainable bamboo plants without the addition of harmful chemicals. Not only does this contribute to their affordable price, but it makes Bamboo Lyocell sheets the best hypoallergenic option, and they’re good for the environment too.
Click here for a selection of comfy HyggeB sheets made from all-natural Bamboo Lyocell.
Other Important Tips for Choosing Bedsheets
Above and beyond the tips mentioned above, you must consider your sleep preferences and needs. For instance, if you’re buying sheets for a warm climate or season, you’ll want something breathable, feathery soft and lightweight.
Also, look out for tell-tale signs of cheap sheets in the form of non-uniform stitches or threads that hang off one side of the fabric.
The Bottom Line
Don’t get so hung up on the thread count because most of it is a marketing gimmick. In addition to thread count, consider the fabric, its origins and the weaving process that’s used in making the sheets as well as your needs.
Check out hyggeb.com to start shopping for soft, lightweight and lush Bamboo Lyocell Sheets from HyggeB.
