Does Thread Count Really Matter When You're Shopping for Sheets?

It's hard if not impossible to shop for new sheets without reading about their thread count. This number has been widely adopted as the single most important factor for sheet quality, but what does thread count actually indicate? And how much does it really matter?

For centuries, thread count has been used to measure the softness and comfort of sheets, so it’s natural to draw the conclusion that a higher thread count means better, softer bedding. However, that’s not necessarily a hard and fast rule. Thread count is not the only quality to consider when choosing sheets. To better understand the meaning and importance of thread count, we turned to the experts.

What Does Thread Count Mean?

"Thread count is how we measure the softness and quality of bed sheets. It's simply the number of threads woven together in one square inch of fabric, with higher counts generally meaning softer, smoother sheets for your sleep," says Kerrie Kelly a fellow with the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).

For example, fabric that has 250 lengthwise threads and 250 widthwise threads has a thread count of 500. It is a measurement of how tightly the fabric is woven, and historically used to indicate the softness and quality of the material. "The higher the thread count, the more luxurious and comfy your bed will be," she says.

Is Thread Count Important for Buying Sheets?

The concept of thread count dates back to long before the advent of synthetic fibers and requires the assumption that each yarn consists of a single strand. While thread count may be relevant when shopping for sheets made of 100 percent cotton, it is not as important for other types of materials. 

Thread count considers the quantity of yarns but does not account for their quality. "Quality is determined by various factors, which can significantly impact the overall feel, durability, and comfort of the sheets," says textile designer Isabelle Abbott. "It’s essential to look beyond thread count when assessing sheet quality."

Sheets with a thread count of 500 will typically be softer and more comfortable than sheets with a thread count of 200, but that is only true if other factors, such as the weave, craftsmanship, and quality of yarn are the same for both sets of sheets.

Is a Higher Thread Count Better?

Simply put, a higher thread count is not always better. Thread count does not always directly correlate to quality, though it does influence the texture of the sheets.

"Today, fiber content is more important, and with manmade fibers, we are tending toward grams per square inch (GSM) or weight instead of the more traditional cotton thread count," says Deborah Young, a textile expert and educator. Materials such as jersey, flannel, and microfiber are measured not by thread count but by GSM, and silk is measured by momme (the unit of measurement used to grade the weight of silk).

The material you choose determines how much thread count should play into your decision-making process, if at all. "It’s important to prioritize quality, which includes factors like fabric type, weave, and finishing. These aspects have a more significant impact on the comfort and durability of your sheets," says Abbott.

Opting for a thread count that is too high is ill-advised if you value longevity in your bedding. "A very high thread count means the threads are finer and sometimes weaker," says Young. Though they may be soft, sheets with an exceptionally high thread count cannot withstand much wear and tear, especially when compared to those with a more standard thread count.

What’s a Good Thread Count to Look for When Buying Sheets?

While thread count is not the singular most important measure of soft and comfortable sheets, searching for sheets within a thread count range can help you narrow down your choices. According to Abbot, a 300 to 500 thread count is the sweet spot. "This range strikes a balance between a silky-smooth feel and good breathability, making for a cozy night’s sleep," she says.  

Sheets with exceedingly higher thread counts can certainly be soft but probably aren't a great option for everyday sheets. "I would not stray above 1200," Young says. "They get too weak and too thin."

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing sheets, nor is there one clear indicator of comfort. "Comfort is a highly individual preference, and some may prefer higher or lower thread counts or different fabric types for their ideal sheet comfort," says Abbot. "It’s always a good idea to try out different options to discover what feels best for you personally."