You hear a lot of talk about thread counts. Most experts agree that thread counts are a very important factor to consider when buying linens, especially bed sheets. So, exactly what is a "thread count?" The thread count is the measurement of the number of horizontal and vertical woven threads found in a square inch of a fabric. The finer thread counts are in the neighborhood of about 700 threads per square inch while a lower quality fabric would have anywhere from 80 to 200 threads per square inch (psi). Although thread count is definitely a factor to consider when purchasing sheets, it is really just a single factor among several. When you shop in general department stores, you'll find sheets that have an average thread count of from about 180 to close to 320. For longevity's sake, cotton-blend sheets with a thread count of around 200 psi seem to last a respectable amount of time and do provide a reasonable amount of comfort for the average consumer. What is known as a "standard" thread count of regular muslin cotton fabric is about 150. A more refined and better quality sheet would be one with a thread count of about 200 psi. A "percale," which is a kind of soft, easily washed fabric that wears well and practically never wrinkles, is a thread of higher than 200 psi. A luxury sheet, that is quite expensive, is one whose thread count is 500 psi and up. The actual "thread count" of a fabric is not simply the amount of threads in one square inch. Since cotton and other linens have become more finespun through newer weaving processes, thread counts alone can be a less accurate measurement of quality. If a fabric has a thread count of 500 or more, there's a good chance that the yarn in the process has been plied, or twisted, in order to double the yarn. Therefore, if a fabric has 250 yarns, that have been plied, in a square inch, that fabric would actually be rated as a fabric with 1,000 psi thread count. See how it can be deceiving? Still great fabric but not a true 1000 count thread per square inch. According to The National Textile Association, the standard setter for the industry, it is a common practice for the threads to be counted separately whenever a thread count is read from any fabric. So, you see, the consumer could actually be deceived into believing they're getting a higher thread count than they are because if the threads are counted in a two or three ply sheet, the actual number of threads psi is exaggerated. This is a stickler. It is not necessarily more luxurious nor does a fabric become longer wearing simply because several threads have been spun together. The unknowing consumer will almost always note the number of threads in a square inch and make their buying decision based on this number. High quality cotton threads are the real beginning for luxury level linens. Individual fiber or staples are what fine cotton is dependant on. The longer that the staple is, the higher the quality of the cotton. Staples that are longer are often combed with a finer instrument which allows the cotton fiber to be spun into a much finer thread texture. When this process takes place, the result is a softer and more luxurious fabric. The longest staple on Earth belongs to Egyptian cotton. Fabric manufactured with Egyptian cotton is known as "world class" fiber and is considered very luxurious. It is also very expensive. A common trick of some manufacturers is to mix Egyptian cotton with cheaper, less quality cotton. A consumer should make sure that the label assures that the fabric claiming to be Egyptian cotton is in fact, 100% Egyptian Cotton. The finishing process should be an additional factor that the consumer needs to be aware of. Modern technologies, along with the methodology of weaving and dying are the processes that determine the overall appearance and durability of a fabric. The reputation of the manufacturer on the label is very important. If the manufacturer is well-known and of good repute, the fabric is probably what it claims to be; however, if the maker is unknown or has a poor reputation, the consumer should beware the product. With the Internet so handy and the speed of shopping so rapid, it is not surprising that many consumers are fooled so easily. Remember that the thread count of a fabric is not the only factor that you, the consumer, should consider when looking to make a purchase for any linen products. Stay informed and you will be a better shopper.
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