What Thread Count Means

Bedding experts and enthusiasts often use the term “thread count” to describe the quality of bedding. This article will explain the nuances of thread count and what to look for in high-quality bedding. 

Thread Count Explained

Fabrics are composed of horizontal and vertical threads that intersect each other. When we say “thread count,” we refer to the total number of horizontal threads plus the number of vertical threads in a square inch. So, if a square inch has 300 horizontal threads and 300 vertical threads, the thread count is 600.

Is a higher or lower thread count better?

Consumers often ask about the thread count when purchasing bedding. The general impression is that the higher the thread count, the better the quality of the bedding. Many people equate it with softness and a higher degree of comfort when sleeping, but a well-rounded decision goes a long way. We recommend considering other factors when purchasing your bedding. Here are other things worth noting:

1. The quality of the fibre: A fabric is made up of fibres, and their quality determines the overall condition of your bedding. Bed sheets constructed from high-quality fibres are soft and durable. Long fibres, such as long-staple cotton and CleanBamboo® lyocell fibre, are lightweight, giving the fabric an airy, breathable quality ideal for hot, humid climates.   

2. The kind of weave: The weave type determines how your bedding feels (texture) and looks (lustre). Common weaves include Percale (crisp and cool) and Sateen (silky and shiny).  

3. The brand: Most people unfamiliar with bedding technicalities rely on a brand’s reputation. Consumers typically gravitate towards well-known brands, often avoiding those they haven’t heard of. Although not necessarily true, most people equate good quality with famous brands. Other people rely on word of mouth and hype, going for the brands friends recommend.   

Thread Count Demystified

It’s worth noting that thread count can be manipulated by using low-quality threads. It’s best to make a balanced decision and consider other factors, such as fiber quality, weave type, and brand reputation.

Use your experience as your guide when buying your sheets, and stick with it. What makes you comfortable should be your top consideration when choosing which bedding is worth buying.

Softness and Comfort Guaranteed

ettitude’s bedding has a thread count 312, on the higher end of the recommended range of 250-350 for bamboo sheets. Our CleanBamboo® Signature Sateen and CleanBamboo® Sateen+ Sheet Sets use sateen weave to achieve the silky feel and luxurious sheen many associate with good quality. We designed our sheets with your comfort in mind, making them breathable and hypoallergenic. It took several years of testing and learning to design ettitude’s CleanBamboo® sheets, which are the optimal combination of soft, silky, breathable, and durable. That is why 93.75% of sleepers prefer ettitude sheets to cotton sheets, as proven in a study conducted by SleepSpace. 

Try our sheets for 60 nights risk-free and experience the difference.

FAQs

What thread is best for bedding?

Bamboo sheets are renowned for their breathability and absorbent properties, making them an ideal choice for hot sleepers seeking a more restful night's sleep. Unlike many bamboo viscose sheets, ettitude’s CleanBamboo® fabric—made with an innovative lyocell process—outperforms cotton, bamboo viscose, and Tencel in durability, breathability, and moisture-wicking, as confirmed by third-party testing. In a 3-week sleep study, ettitude sheets delivered a clinically significant 10% improvement in sleep quality and 1.5% improvement in sleep efficiency, equating to 43 extra hours of sleep per year. Additionally, ettitude bedding is dermatologist-recommended and ideal for those with sensitive skin, eczema, psoriasis, allergies, cancer, hormonal imbalances, menopause, and pregnancy due to its smooth, hypoallergenic, naturally cooling and non-toxic qualities. 

Is a high thread count worth it?

Thread count is not the only criterion to consider when buying bedding. Other factors include fibre quality, weave type, and brand reputation. Also, manufacturers can easily manipulate thread count using thinner, low-quality threads.