That Thread Count Myth, Busted

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27 October 2023

What You Should Know About High Thread Counts

Julia Canella | Home | 27 October 2023

Thread counts. All too often, we're asked about them.

Is it a true indicator of superior quality?

Unravelling the thread truth

The truth is – only sometimes.

And unfortunately, it's not that simple.

A true indicator of quality lies in the yarn itself, and not how many threads fit into one square inch of fabric (nor that discount brand screaming through a megaphone about it).

Long staple yarns, like Egyptian cotton, will result in a softer, more durable fabric at a lower thread count.

Also, the way a textile is woven may result in a higher thread count, but it's not necessarily what you desire to sleep in, night after night (hot sleepers, we're talking to you).

High thread count cotton offers a beautiful lustre, but a greater count is dense when multiple twist yarns are used, making a sheet feel rather heavy for someone living in a balmy climate, or those of us who prefer lightweight coverage.

Quality fabrics worth the humble-brag

Looking for a soft, smooth handle?

Cotton sateen and Tencel™ threads are woven closely together, giving them characteristically luxe appearances.

For a cool, crisp feel against your skin, cotton percale is your winner, as this is a plain weave that breathes. The thread count of percale is usually between 225 to 400 single threads (per 10 square centimeters).

Thread count is even less relevant when we start to talk about fibres, such as pure linen or bamboo, which happen to be the most popular and purchased Linen House threads.

Pure linen is much-admired for its drape and distinctively rustic appearance, and is usually treated with a specific garment-washing process for added softness.

Combined, bamboo and cotton is a Linen House best-seller, and celebrated for feeling remarkably soft, being fast to launder, and kind to allergy sufferers (as well as the environment).

Polyester and cotton blends provide a durable, less expensive and easycare product, which is incredibly handy for holiday homeowners and those of us who don't wish to deal with an iron.

That's everyone in the world, right?