What does thread count mean?
The thread count of a fabric is determined by the number of threads woven together within a specified area. This consists of both vertical threads (warp) and horizontal threads (weft). In Australia, the thread count reflects the threads counted within a 10cm square. This count is used as an indicator of fabric weight and fabric softness.
Does a higher thread count mean better quality?
Generally speaking, the higher the thread count the more dense the sheet, resulting in a heavier drape. A higher thread count sheet isn't necessarily 'better' than a lower thread count sheet. The best thread count for you, and what can be considered 'high quality sheets', will also depend on other factors like fabric quality, fibre length, type of weave, and your personal preferences surrounding weight, temperature, and softness.
Our sheet and quilt cover collection includes thread counts ranging from 250 through to 1200. While higher thread count sheets may be considered more luxurious, a low thread count doesn't necessarily mean your sheet set is lower quality. In fact, it could mean your sheet set feels wonderfully lightweight and crisp. There are benefits for higher and lower thread count options depending on personal preference. There is no magic number.
What thread count is best for sheets?
Thread count isn't the only determining factor when it comes to good quality sheets. The quality of the yarn is also important. Finer yarns like Egyptian Cotton, made from longer threads (or long staple fibres) can result in more durable, premium fabrics. This, coupled with a high thread count, can result in a higher quality feel; often associated with 'hotel luxury'. A sateen weave can also lend itself to a smoother, more lustrous feel.
However, higher thread count sheets (eg. 1200 TC) tend to offer a heavier drape - which doesn't appeal to all tastes. With this in mind, a high-to-mid range thread count (600 to 800) may be the sweet spot if you're looking for a durable yet soft sheet. Our Carlson Royale sheet set is a customer and staff favourite for this reason.
What is a good thread count? What's the difference between high and low thread count?
Lower thread count sheets (200 – 300 thread count) are usually crisp, light, and cool. Medium thread count sheets (300 – 500 thread count) tend to feel light and soft. Higher thread count sheets (500 – 1000 thread count and 1200 thread count) usually have a fuller drape and more decadent feel due to the higher density of yarn in the fabric.
Shop 500 - 1200 Thread Count Sheets:
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Nassor Stripe 700 TC Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set - WhiteQueenSpecial Price $149.95 was $299.95 -
Carlson Royale 600 TC Egyptian Cotton Sateen Sheet Set - Pale BlueQueenSpecial Price $148.45 was $269.95 -
Caton 500 TC Bamboo/ Cotton Sheet Set - ChambrayQueenSpecial Price $134.95 was $269.95 -
Cambridge 800 TC Egyptian Cotton Sheets - White NavyKing Pillowcase Each$39.95
Shop 300 - 400 Thread Count Sheets:
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York 375 TC Cotton Sateen Sheet Set - AquamarineQueenSpecial Price $89.95 was $179.95
Shop 250 Thread Count Sheets:
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Pure 250 TC Egyptian Cotton Sheet Set - IndigoQueenSpecial Price $84.95 was $169.95 -
Perfects 250 TC Cotton Blend Sheets - BlackQueenSpecial Price $31.15 was $44.50 -
Alara 250 TC Cotton Sheet SetQueenSpecial Price $99.95 was $129.95 -
Caviar 250 TC Cotton Sheet Set - SageQueenSpecial Price $99.95 was $129.95 -
Supreme 250 TC Egyptian Cotton Sheets - Starlight BlueQueen FittedSpecial Price $41.95 was $59.95 -
Sasha 250 TC Cotton Sheet Set - TaupeQueenSpecial Price $99.95 was $129.95 -
Coolabah 250 TC Cotton SheetsQueenSpecial Price $99.95 was $129.95 -
Beth 250 TC Cotton Sheet Set - Green FloralQueenSpecial Price $99.95 was $129.95 -
Aldo 250 TC Cotton Sheet Set - ClayQueenSpecial Price $99.95 was $129.95 -
Irene 250 TC Cotton Sheet SetQueenSpecial Price $99.95 was $129.95 -
Strawberry Thief 250 TC Cotton Sheet Set - NavyQueenSpecial Price $118.95 was $169.95
Choose the perfect thread count for your sheet set
Beautiful cotton sheet sets can go a long way in getting a better night's sleep and improving your sleep health. Along with thread count, cotton fibres and weave type can vary to result in a completely different feel. If you're buying sheets and getting bogged down in plain weave, sateen weave, yarns, blends and other materials, explore our Sheet Buying Guide to create your dream bed.
