Decoding Thread Count: The Real Truth Behind Thread Count in Luxury Bedsheet

Beyond thread count: Higher thread count is it really better? 

Introduction:

In the bedding world, we often heard of people saying " the higher thread count, the better it is " or " just go for the high thread counts" but are they really good ?

Let's unravel what's thread count really means.

Thread count (TC) measures how many threads are woven together in one square inch of fabric, both horizontally (weft) and vertically (warp).

Generally, when more threads is packed together (high thread counts), the resulting fabric is softer and smoother. But there's much more to it.

Knowing that thread count has a significant influence on consumer's decision, many manufacturers come up with a creative way to manipulate or inflate the thread count. Manufacturers may twist multiple strands together to form a single thread, which often results in less breathability and more stiffness.

Hence, thread count alone cannot guarantee the quality of the bedsheets. There's a few factors to consider:

1. Fibre type / quality
2. Yarn quality / size
3. Weaving method
4. Thread count
5. Staple length & number of ply

The truth behind high thread counts explained

The dark side of high thread count: " inflating thread counts "

1. Multi-ply threads: Instead of using single strong threads, they twist 2 or 3 inferior, thinner threads together in order to increase the strength and durability. The multiple strands in each ply are then counted at the end, and contribute to the high thread counts.

For example, a normal 600TC cotton bedsheet should have 300 threads vertically and also 300 threads horizontally. ( 300 + 300 = 600 thread counts )

Another manufacturer using 2-ply cotton, also having 300 threads in each direction, but they can market as 1200TC. ( 300 + 300 ) x 2ply = 1200 thread counts )

Hence, the "1200TC bedsheet" that you bought might not be the luxury bedsheet you thought. Multi-ply threads in fact is less breathable, denser and scratchy on skin. They also have a higher tendency on piling due to shorter thread used.

At Neru, we craft every single piece with single-ply long strand bamboo fibers. Delivering lasting durability, luxurious soft and silky touch. An experience of comfort that you can truly feel.

Visit our next blog post on the weave type, different fiber quality and more !