The Truth About Thread Count: How to Choose the Best Sheets for a Better Sleep

The Truth About Thread Count: How to Choose the Best Sheets for a Better Sleep

2025 Jul 9th

If you've ever shopped for bed sheets, chances are you've come across the term “thread count,” touted as a badge of luxury. But what is thread count, really? And does a higher number actually mean better quality?

In this blog, we’ll break down the truth about thread count, explain the difference between percale vs sateen sheets, and help you understand what actually makes a great sheet.


What Is Thread Count?

Thread count refers to the number of horizontal (weft) and vertical (warp) threads woven into one square inch of fabric. Imagine zooming into a sheet with a magnifying glass—you’d count every thread running left to right and top to bottom in that tiny square. Add them together, and you’ve got your thread count!

The High Thread Count Myth

Here’s the truth: a higher thread count doesn’t always mean higher quality. Some manufacturers inflate thread count by twisting multiple low-quality yarns together (called “plying”) and counting each strand separately. 

If two or three yarns are twisted together and counted individually, that same fabric may be labeled as 500 or even 750 thread count—without actually feeling better.

These multi-ply yarns are often made from short-staple fibers, which are weaker, rougher, and more likely to pill. So, while the number sounds luxurious, the sheet may feel heavy, scratchy, or stifling.

Percale vs Sateen: What’s the Best Weave for You?

If you’re wondering how to choose the best sheets, weave type is just as important as thread count—if not more so.

Percale Sheets: Crisp, Breathable, and Cool

Percale weaves (also known as plain weaves) feature a classic one-over-one-under structure. It creates a matte finish and a crisp, cool hand feel—similar to a freshly pressed dress shirt. 

The best thread count for percale sheets is usually between 200 and 300.

Benefits of Percale:

  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Cool to the touch—great for hot sleepers
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Softens over time with washing

Sateen Sheets: Smooth, Silky, and Luxurious

Sateen weaves use a four-over-one-under structure, placing more threads on the fabric’s surface. This creates a subtle sheen and a silky-smooth touch that feels luxurious and drapes beautifully.

The best thread count for sateen sheets is between 300 to 700, depending on the material. But be wary of thread counts past this range—they may involve multi-ply yarns, and won’t be as soft as you might think!

Benefits of Sateen:

  • Softer and smoother than percale
  • Lustrous, satin-like finish
  • Wrinkle-resistant
  • Heavier, warmer feel—great for cooler months

What’s More Important Than Thread Count?

If the thread count isn’t everything, what should you focus on? Here are the 4 key factors that actually affect sheet quality, so that you can shop and sleep smart! 

  1. Yarn Quality

Even with high-quality materials, how well the yarn is spun matters. Fewer breaks in the fiber mean a smoother surface, which translates into a softer, more luxurious sheet.

  1. Weave Type

Choose percale for coolness and crispness or sateen for softness and drape. Your sleep style should guide your choice.

  1. Honest Thread Count

A thread count of 200-300 is ideal for percale sheets, while 300-700 is preferred for sateen sheets. Anything over 800? Be cautious, unless it’s verified single-ply.

  1. Long-Staple vs Short-Staple

The length of the fiber (also called a ‘staple’) can also determine the strength and smoothness of your sheets. Longer staples—like those used in our Egyptian Cotton sheets—create smoother, stronger fabric that resists pilling. Short-staple fibers tend to be less durable and can feel rougher, or develop fuzz over time.

Does Thread Count Matter?

So—does thread count matter? Yes, but only in context.

Ross Thompson, our creative director and textile expert at QE Home, explains it best:

“You could go and get a 1200 thread count sheet, and it can feel like sandpaper, just because of the base ingredients—the threads, the yarn that they started to weave with. Whereas you could find a 250 percale, for example, that’s buttery soft, crisp and gorgeous to touch. Because once again, it was made with high-quality cotton that they’ve woven that with.”

A good sheet is about balance: high-quality cotton + the right weave + reasonable thread count = a truly luxurious sleep experience.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Fall for the Numbers

Remember: thread count is just one part of the story. Instead of chasing big numbers, choose sheets based on:

  • Honest thread counts
  • Sateen and percale weaves
  • Your personal sleep preferences
  • Trusted, transparent brands

So, the next time you see 1000 thread count sheets in the wild, pause. Ask questions. And run your hand over the fabric, because the best sheets aren’t about the label—they’re about how you feel when you slip into bed.

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