Cotton Facts
What is thread count?
Simply put, thread count is the number of pieces of cotton thread that can be found within a single square inch. Both the horizontal thread (the weft) and the vertical thread (the warp) are counted. For example, if there are 200 horizontal threads and 200 vertical threads, the total thread count will be 400. Being among the finer fibres available naturally, cotton breathes, so cotton sheets feel cooler against your skin.
Does thread count really matter?
If you’re trying to decide on the perfect set of sheets, we think you’ll be surprised at how much of a difference thread count makes. In general, the higher the thread count, the higher the quality and the more luxurious and soft the feel. If you want softer sheets, please choose the higher thread counts! That said, lower thread counts also have a place in the home, and offer practical and easy care options. To give you an idea of how thread count affects the feel of a fabric, consider that good quality bed sheets come in at 180, and anything above 200 is considered a better quality. The 200 and 300 thread count cotton sheets will have a lovely crispy feel. Luxury bedding would generally be anything from 400 thread count all the way up to 1000 thread count.
“Understanding the basics when it comes to thread count will help you make an informed decision that suit your lifestyle, your home and your budget. In the end, the best way to determine which sheeting is the right choice for you is to sleep on it. Different people sleep better with different weaves, weights and textures of sheeting, so choose something that feels luxurious against your skin, and enjoy it!
Percale vs Egyptian Cotton?
Percale, refers to the actual weave pattern rather than the cotton used in the fabric. Percale uses a plain weave that intertwines warp and weft threads in a sort of a checkerboard pattern. The result of this weave is a strong sheet that has a medium weight to it. In most cases, the thread count is 200 or higher. The percale weave is often produced from 100 percent cotton although a blend of cotton and polyester is sometimes used. Interestingly, when you look at percale vs Egyptian cotton sheets, you may be surprised to find that these two terms are often paired together on your bedding package. Egyptian cotton can be woven in a percale fashion, making for a strong fabric that is also very soft and comfortable. Because Egyptian cotton can be woven as a percale, it allows for a very high quality sheet that may cost more, but is certainly worth the investment! When we compare percale vs Egyptian cotton sheets, you must understand where Egyptian cotton comes from. Egyptian cotton is produced in Egypt along the Nile River. This cotton comes in long fibres that are woven into a series of patterns to give your sheets that soft to the touch feel. Most Egyptian cotton is 200 thread count and higher. This produces a very strong sheet that is also very soft to sleep on. The higher the thread count, the softer your sheets will feel to the touch.
