Thread Count, Fabric, Cost: Know Your Stuff Before Buying Luxury Sheets

At Shelterpop, we looooove helping our readers, and sometimes, we learn a thing or two along the way. This week, a lovely reader wrote in asking about luxury sheets and, more specifically, how she can find a set for wayyy less. Always up for a challenge, I went shopping (in the name of research, of course)!

Here's everything you needed to know about when to splurge on sheets -- and when you're getting ripped off.

Which thread count is best?
First of all, let's talk thread count. A sheet's thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads in each square inch of fabric. The average shopper believes the higher the thread count, the softer the sheet. However, after researching linen buyer's guides and talking to a few textile manufacturers, it turns out that any sheet with a thread count larger than 380 is a bit of a falsity. Much like sunscreen, higher doesn't always mean better. Many manufacturers often twist two threads together to create a larger thread count, which, as a result, gives you less of the natural fiber you're purchasing.

Which fabric blend is worth the money?
Alternatively, rather than choosing your sheets based on thread count alone, take into account the type of fibers the sheets are crafted from. A few popular options are Pima, Supima, and Egyptian Cotton, which generally have thread counts between 200 and 300 and are known for a soft, silky but durable quality. Steer clear of any muslin blend, as these sheets are often hard and scratchy.



Where to find them?
A good tip is to search for American-made sheets, as imported fabrics can double your cost. Here are a few great sources I'd recommend:

• Domestic Bin:
  Try the Egyptian cotton 275 thread count sheet set from Wamsutta (at just $39.99!).
• Linen Place:
  Try the Echelon Sateen set, made from 100% Egyptian cotton with a thread count of 300 for just $72 for the queen sheet set.
• Overstock:
  Try the Pima Cotton 350 thread count sheet set for just $49.99.

By now you should have a better idea of what to look for in luxury sheets. As always, a good deal isn't a good deal if you don't take care of it, so remember to hang-dry your sheets and avoid heavy detergents and bleaches.

Happy dreaming!

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