Not always true. Still, Threadcount is one of the most usual question people ask when shopping for luxury linens sheets.
So what threadcount really means? Thread count refers to fabric's weave. The weave is made of horizontal and vertical threads that make the texture of a fabric. Threadcount is the total number of threads in a square inch of fabric combined, vertical and horizontal. For example a threadcount of 400 would imply 200 horizontal threads and 200 vertical threads. All things being equal, a higher threadcount would indicate a softer feeling fabric.
However, not all sheets are created equal and sky high threadcount doesn't always indicate a higher quality or more luxurious sheets.
.... And you don't have to be a techie to choose some great luxury linens sheets.
A few basic principles and your own sense of touch will make you a confident consumer.
You too can have sheets that match your comforter and feel like butter wash after wash!
First and foremost, only choose fabrics woven with single ply yarns. The only thing double or triple ply is good for is toilet paper! Just think about it. The double ply on paper makes it heavier and thicker, which also creates an irritating stiff feeling to fabric. Single ply sheets usually feel smooth and silky.
Going back to the whole thread count confusion. Higher thread count does not always make for nicer sheets as manufacturers can inflate thread count by using doubled or tripled strands of yarn. That's misleading and confusing and is the most common reason why a 500TC sheet doesn't necessarily feel better than a 300TC sheet.
There is a substantial difference in the quality of the yarn used to make the sheets as well. Right! Long staple cotton yarn produces higher quality sheets. The type of weave is also something that will affect the final product. Sateen is one of the most common weave for bed sheets. It creates a particularly smooth fabric with a luminous shine and a silky lofty hand.
Among all the others Egyptian and Pima cottons raw fibers have earned a reputation for luxury in the world of luxury bed linens. Apart from traditional cotton others natural fibers are becoming increasingly popular as they bring unique qualities. Organic/Green cotton is becoming very popular as consumers prefer sheets that are chemical-free and enviroment friendly. Bamboo bedding is also getting more popular. Bamboo fibers are soft and breathable, and also have been tested for antimicrobial properties.
The one main advice to anyone shopping for luxury linens is to rely on your own tactile sense. Try at least a pillow case to see how it feels and how it looks on your bed. If it's not as nice as you would expect you have 15 days or more to return the whole sheets set for a full refund. With bed sheets, comfort is everything. If they feel stiff and coarse, washing won't transform them into nice and soft. Get the most out the time you spend in bed, only go for high quality luxury linen sheets.