Bedding Feature: Thread Count Myths

300, 400, 1800 thread count sheets? What does this even mean! Most people are quick to think that a higher thread count means better quality sheets - this is actually not always the case. Below we discuss: what does thread count mean, what a low vs. high thread count entails, and how to choose bedding fabric.

Pictured: LNBF Leaf Jacquard Bamboo Duvet Cover Set 

What is thread count?

Thread count refers to the number of threads in one square inch of fabric - in other words, how dense the fabric of the sheets is. Manufacturers of bedding often market higher thread count as better quality sheets - but this is not the case. Often, thin lower-grade cotton fabric is used, meaning companies can add more threads into a smaller space. This technically increases the thread count, but does not make the sheets any softer or stronger, as it is still a thin lower-grade cotton (source: Business Insider). 

When considering new bed sheets, consider the quality over the quantity of the threads. Read into what they are made from and what type they are. Thread count does not measure the fabric’s breathability, comfort, or softness, but rather the fabric density (source: Sealy). It’s also important to note higher density can, in turn, decrease the breathability of the fabric, making your sleep a warm one.

How to Choose Bed Sheets? Top 3 Considerations When Choosing New Bedding

When investing in high quality bedding, consider these 3 things!

Pictured: LNBF Leaf Jacquard Bamboo Pillow Shams

1. The Fabric Itself

Bamboo vs. cotton is a common comparison in the bedding market. So which is the right choice? Let’s talk about texture, durability, and coolness factors. Bamboo has a softer, silkier texture than cotton. Cotton tends to be stiffer, and can be scratchy. As discussed in an article by Sealy, a 100% bamboo fibre sheet set is softer and slippery than a 100% cotton sheet, even if they’re the same thread count (source: Sealy). The durability of bamboo fabrics also differs from cotton - bamboo fabric tends to last longer, keeping its shape and colour longer than cotton fabrics. Cotton retains heat more than bamboo - so for warmer Summer weather, cotton sheets may provide an uncomfortable warm night's sleep (source: sleepadvisor). Bamboo fabric is airy and breathable, perfect for all seasons!

Pictured: Terrera Bamboo Pillowcase Set 

2. Sustainability

It is important to find bedding that feels good on the skin and on the mind, knowing it is eco friendly. Reading into the company and fabrics sustainable practices should be one of the top three things to consider before buying new bedding. Cotton is known to use more water, pesticides, and land compared to bamboo. Bamboo produces little waste, is a regenerative crop, and requires less land than cotton.

Pictured: LNBF Leaf Jacquard Bamboo Duvet Cover Set 

3. Breathability

The higher the thread count, the denser the fabric. This can mean the breathability of the bedding may be decreased with a higher thread count, contributing to a warm and uncomfortable sleep. Consider the breathability of the bedding by looking into not only the thread count, but also the fabric and thread materials used.

It can be tricky figuring out which sheets are suitable for you, especially with all the misinformation about thread counts. Using these three factors as a guideline when making your purchase will help you decide what sheets are right for you!

Check out our ultra-soft bamboo bedding here!

Sources:

https://www.businessinsider.com/thread-count-meaning-bed-sheets-cotton-cloth-2017-11

https://www.sealy.com.au/sleep-hub/thread-count-does-higher-mean-better/

https://www.sleepadvisor.org/bamboo-vs-cotton-sheets/