Ever seen a sheet set boasting a sky-high thread count? 1000? 1500? Sounds fancy—but is there really a magic number to get the perfect cotton sheet?
Key Takeaways
- The ideal range for cotton sheets is 200-400 for softness, breathability, and durability. Anything higher may feel heavier or trap heat, depending on fibre quality.
- Higher thread count doesn’t always mean better sheets. Some brands twist fibres together to inflate numbers, creating dense, less breathable fabric.
- Fabric type matters just as much as thread count.Bamboo feels luxurious at 250-500, while linen relies on weave rather than thread count for comfort.
Thread count gets a lot of hype, but here’s the truth: it’s just one piece of the puzzle.
Fabric type, weave, and fibre quality matter just as much. Get it wrong, and you might end up with stiff, suffocating sheets instead of soft, breathable bliss.
So, what is a good thread count for cotton sheets? How about bamboo or linen sheets? And does higher always mean better? Keep reading or jump ahead to help you pick the best sheets on the shelf.
Jump to a section:
- What Does Thread Count Mean?
- What Is a Good Thread Count?
- Is Higher Thread Count Better?
- What to Look For When Shopping for Sheets?
- What Is the Highest Thread Count for Sheets?
- How is Thread Count Calculated?
- FAQs
What Does Thread Count Mean?
Thread count is essentially the number of threads woven into a square inch of fabric—both lengthwise (warp) and widthwise (weft).
But in Australia and New Zealand, thread count is measured differently. It’s based on the number of threads within a 10cm square, serving as a guide to fabric weight and softness.
A basic sheet might have a thread count of 250, while premium options boast 500 or more. But higher doesn’t always mean better. Some manufacturers use multi-ply threads to inflate the number, which doesn’t guarantee a softer or more durable fabric.
The real secret? It’s not just about the number—it’s about the quality of the threads themselves.
What Is a Good Thread Count?
There’s no overall best thread count for sheets that guarantees the softest, most comfortable sheets.
The best thread count depends on the fabric. Let’s break it down.
| Fabric Type | Recommended Thread Count |
| Cotton | 200 – 400 |
| Bamboo | 250 – 500 |
| Linen | 50 – 140 |
Cotton Sheets
For high-quality cotton sheets, the sweet spot is 200 to 400. This range offers a balance of softness, breathability, and durability.
If you’re eyeing 1000 thread count cotton sheets, check the fibre quality. Egyptian and Pima cotton can feel luxurious even at lower counts, while lesser-quality cotton may feel stiff or heavy at ultra-high counts.
Bamboo Sheets
Bamboo sheets are naturally soft, meaning it doesn’t need a sky-high count to feel luxurious.
A 250 to 500 thread count is ideal. Anything higher can make the fabric denser, reducing its breathability.
Linen Sheets
Linen sheets play by different rules.
Since it’s made from thicker flax fibres, its thread count is much lower—typically 50 to 140. But don’t let that fool you. Linen’s comfort comes from its unique weave, not a high thread count.
Note: In the case of linen, you may wish to avoid considerations of thread count altogether. As the fibres are heavier, lower thread counts are often preferable as they are likely to be softer and more breathable.
So, what thread count is the softest among the three sheets?
A 200 to 400 thread count in high-quality cotton offers a soft yet breathable feel, while bamboo sheets stay luxuriously smooth even at 250 to 500 thread count. And for linen lovers, softness isn’t measured in numbers—it’s something you feel with every wash.
Is Higher Thread Count Better?
A common myth: the higher the thread count, the better the sheets.
It sounds logical—more threads must mean a softer, more luxurious feel, right? Not always.
Sheets with a 500 thread count made from high-quality cotton can feel far better than 1000 thread count sheets made from lower-grade fibres. Why? Some brands twist multiple fibres together to artificially boost the number, which can lead to heavier, less breathable fabric.
For the perfect balance of softness, durability, and airflow, higher isn’t always better. It’s about choosing the right thread count for the fabric type.
What to Look For When Shopping for Sheets?
A high thread count alone doesn’t guarantee better sheets. Here’s what truly matters:
Fabric Quality Over Thread Count
If you’re wondering what thread count is good, focus on fabric quality first.
The quality of the fibres matters more than the numbers. Here’s what to know about different materials:
- Egyptian Cotton – Made from a high-quality cotton species, Egyptian cotton sheets are known for their durability and luxurious feel. With the right care, they can last decades.
- Sateen – A fabric made from pre-treated cotton using a satin weave. It feels soft and luxurious but can pill and wrinkle more than Egyptian cotton.
- Percale – A tightly woven fabric that’s durable, smooth and crisp. Often used in bed covers and sheets with intricate patterns.
- Other Materials – Silk sheets, flannel and microfibre don’t use thread count as a quality measure. Instead, they’re assessed based on weight.
Weave Type Affects Feel and Breathability
Percale and sateen are two common weaves.
Percale has a crisp, lightweight feel, perfect for hot sleepers. Sateen is smoother and silkier, with a subtle sheen. Your choice depends on personal preference.
Learn more about percale vs sateen.
Breathability Matters
If you tend to overheat at night, breathable fabrics are your best friend. Linen and bamboo naturally wick away moisture and promote airflow, keeping you cool while you sleep.
On the other hand, a super high thread count can trap heat, making your bed feel stuffy. If you’re after a cooling bedding option, focus on lightweight, breathable materials rather than just the numbers.
Beware of Inflated Thread Counts
Some brands inflate thread count by twisting multiple fibres together, making the numbers seem higher than they really are. But more isn’t always better.
Once you go beyond 800 thread count, the benefits start to diminish—often becoming more about marketing than actual comfort.
What Is the Highest Thread Count for Sheets?
Is 1,000 thread count really good?
Some sheets boast 1,000+ thread count, but at that point, you’re likely paying for clever labelling rather than true luxury. Overly high counts can reduce breathability, trapping heat instead of delivering the comfort you’d expect.
How About Hotel Sheets?
Ever wondered, what thread count are hotel sheets?
Despite what some marketing might suggest, most luxury hotels opt for a 300 to 500 thread count. This range offers the perfect mix of softness, durability, and breathability. Instead of chasing sky-high numbers, hotels focus on premium cotton, like Egyptian or Pima cotton, to achieve that crisp yet inviting feel.
How is Thread Count Calculated?
Thread count is the total number of threads woven into a 10cm² section of fabric in Australia (or a square inch in other regions). It includes both:
- Warp threads – The vertical threads running top to bottom
- Weft threads – The horizontal threads woven side to side
For example, if a fabric has 150 warp threads and 150 weft threads, the thread count is 300.
Some manufacturers twist multiple threads together and count them separately to advertise higher thread counts. This can make numbers misleading, as more threads don’t always mean better quality.
Does thread count matter? Only when paired with high-quality materials. Experience the perfect balance of softness and breathability with Ecosa’s cotton sheets, designed for ultimate comfort!
FAQs
What is a Thread Count?
Thread count refers to the number of threads woven into a 10cm² fabric square in Australia. It’s often used as a measure of softness and durability, but fibre quality and weave matter just as much.
Is 250 Thread Count Good?
Yes! A 250 thread count is ideal for bamboo sheets, offering a balance of softness and breathability. For cotton, it’s on the lighter side but can still feel comfortable with high-quality fibres.
Is 500 Thread Count Good?
A 500 thread count is great for cotton and bamboo sheets, delivering a luxurious feel without compromising breathability. It’s often the sweet spot for those wanting softness without excessive weight.
Is 1000 Thread Count Good?
Not necessarily. While 1000 thread count sounds luxurious, it can sometimes feel thicker and less breathable. High-quality Egyptian or Pima cotton can feel just as soft and durable at lower counts.
How to Determine a Thread Count?
Thread count is the total number of threads woven into a 10cm² fabric square in Australia. Check the label, but also consider fibre quality and weave for true softness.