28 June 2011- For more comfort and durability in bed linens, it is very essential to choose bed sheets of high thread count. It is said that the most important factor to consider while buying the best quality bed sheet is the thread count. It is therefore essential to take some time to learn more about bed sheet thread counts.

What is Thread Count?

Thread count refers to the number of threads per square inch of the fabric. It includes both the horizontal and vertical threads per square inch of fabric. The higher the thread count, the softer and smoother the bed sheets will be. In simple sense, you cut out a square inch of fabric, count the number of threads and you get the thread count of the fabric. But in reality is it possible to count each and every thread in the fabric? The answer is NO. You need a microscope to actually see the tiny threads. Hence, to get an accurate thread count, the analysis has to be done at a lab using a sample fabric. This is the first step taken by bed linen manufacturers before proceeding to produce a wide array of bed sheets in varied prints, colors and fabrics. Accordingly you find bed sheets, the quality of which range from a high thread count to a low thread count, from the expensive range to low budget stuff. Infact you have a whole range to choose from as per your budget and taste.

Some Facts on Thread Count

• In any fabric, the thread size decreases as thread count increases.
• The ply of the fabric implies how many threads are wrapped together into a single thread. In single ply, the threads of the fabric itself are used. In two-ply fabrics twist, two threads are twisted together into a stronger thread, which results in increasing the thread count of the fabric.
• Single-ply threads are made from long, strong, individual fibers and generally produce higher quality, long lasting materials.
• The threads in a fabric are twisted before weaving to produce higher thread count. Twisted threads (like the cords of a rope) are referred to as "multi ply". They are not as sturdy as single ply threads.

Bed Sheets Thread Count Facts: Selection Tips

For bed sheets, finer thread produces smoother and softer fabrics. Some facts that are to be considered the best quality bed sheets are as follows:

• A bed sheet with a label "1,000 thread count" means 250 threads per inch woven with a four-ply thread. It is better to go for a high thread count and single ply to get a good quality sheet.
• Most designer style bed sheets have a thread count of around 200 to 300, which is good. The softest bed sheets are usually with 300 to 500 thread count and they offer excellent softness.
• When we talk about luxury bed sheets, they have thread counts of 800, 1000 or even 1200. One such example is the Egyptian cotton bed sheet.
• Always get the feel of the bed sheet while purchasing. This is referred as the "hand" by textile manufacturers. A higher thread count can create a softer hand. But then bed sheets with lower thread count but made of softer materials can also have a very soft hand.
• Lower thread count bed sheets become softer after repeated washings.