If you’re searching for premium sheets, understanding what thread count is will help you find the best bedding for your needs. Thread count simply means the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric on fitted sheets or flat sheets.

Have you ever wondered why some sheets feel crisp and refreshing and others offer a more weighted feeling? A higher thread count can be an indicator of better quality, but it’s also important to consider weave and fibre quality, which will also impact how it feels.

Fibre quality refers to what the fabric is made of. High-quality yarns like long-staple cotton result in more luxurious, longer-lasting bedding due to their smoother and stronger fibres.

Weave is the pattern of interlacing warp and weft – or vertical and horizontal – threads. The cool touch of percale is created with a 'one over, one under’ weave for that crisp, breathable and lightweight feel. The gentle weight of sateen, however, is made with a ‘four over, one under’ weave that makes the fabric silky to touch.

The thread count on sheets will vary, depending on the cotton type and weaving technique. Some sheets – like cotton percale – have counts as low as 200, while others – such as Egyptian cotton – can reach over 800.

Remember, higher thread counts don’t always mean better-quality sheets. Deciding which sheet is right for you depends on what feels best for you, and what helps you drift off.

If you’re someone who loves to relax in the sun but can’t bear to sleep in the heat, you might want to choose sheets with a lower thread count.

Sheets with a thread count of 150–200 are lighter and more breathable, offering a cool, breathable refuge during even the warmest of summer nights. The kind of fabric you choose will also make a difference. Cotton and linen, for example, are naturally breathable and perfect for hot sleepers.

These sheets won’t all feel the same, as fabric quality and weave should be considered alongside thread count, too.

Balanced and versatile. Sheets within the 200–400 thread-count range are ideal for those who want bedding that's soft, breathable and durable. Many different types of sheets fall into this category – including percale and Egyptian cotton – so you’ll have plenty of choice.

This thread count is widely thought to be a good thread count for cotton sheets and a great option for those who prefer to invest in bedding they can enjoy all year round.

Your beauty sleep can improve when you choose the best bed sheets. The highest thread-count sheets can feel like a real luxury to help soothe you into a deep sleep, thanks to a smoother or denser feel, depending on the weave.

Sateen sheets have a more lustrous and smooth finish, cocooning you in silkiness as you turn off the lights and snuggle down under the covers. This type of weave is often used alongside sumptuous Egyptian cotton for that luxe, satin-like feel.

Anything above 400 is considered a high thread count for sheets, though it can go higher. It’s important to remember that what is considered a high thread count doesn’t always guarantee higher quality, as fibre quality also influences softness and durability. That’s why we put so much effort into sourcing the very best fabrics from around the world to make ours some of the very best.

Most high-quality cotton sheets sit between a thread count of 200 and 400 and are a popular choice of bedding. This is the sweet spot for what is considered a good thread count for cotton sheets. Their breathability, coupled with their supreme comfort, makes them a strong choice for anyone looking to elevate their bedding.

Anything above 400 is a high thread count for cotton sheets, though some counts can reach far higher than that. That doesn’t necessarily mean they’re better quality, though. For example, silk will naturally feel softer than cotton regardless of its thread count

If thread count doesn’t solely determine the quality of your bed linen, what does? Here are a few other important factors that can help you sleep soundly:

Cotton fibre length

Long-staple cotton produces a smoother, stronger fabric as a result of its longer fibres. Imagine you’re making a rope – using a few long threads will be far stronger than hundreds of smaller threads.

Weave type

Sateen sheets feel softer and silkier, while percale sheets are crisper and more lightweight.

Breathability and durability

Specialised finishes can improve longevity and softness. High-quality, long-staple fibres can produce stronger, more breathable sheets.

If you’re looking to elevate your bed linen for better sleep, these factors, alongside thread count, will help you choose.

Your bed is your sanctuary – and it should be treated as such. Pairing quality sheets with pillows, throws and duvet covers that match your style can help you refresh your space. Or choose matching pieces from one of our bed-linen collections for a cohesive scheme.

Thoughtful layers of texture and tone help bring your bed together. Choose lighter shades for a fresh, relaxed look, or deeper colours to create contrast and focus. Your sleep space will feel complete with a well-dressed bed to go with your new sheets.

Which sheet feels softest on your skin? The best sheets aren’t just the sheets with the highest thread count, they’re the ones that make you feel relaxed, comforted and cosy. 

Regardless of a sheet’s thread count, choose the sheets you like best, considering both breathability and comfort. What’s most important is choosing bed sheets that make you feel excited to jump into bed after a long day. Understanding thread count can help you compare options, but shouldn’t be the sole determining factor.

The key to a good night’s rest is quality fabric and expert craftsmanship – everything beyond that is down to what feels good for you. So you can sink into your very best rest.

Continue to learn about sleep and wellness here.

There is no definite ‘best’ thread count for sheets. While counts of over 400 are considered luxurious, it is really down to personal preference – and you may prefer a 200-thread-count sheet instead.

Higher thread counts can indicate better quality, but this is not the only factor – fibre quality and weave are also important. Knowing what the thread count on sheets is can be helpful too, but it isn’t the only consideration.

Yes, a 600-thread-count sheet will be heavier and thicker than those with a lower thread count.

Avoid placing too much importance on thread count alone when shopping for bed sheets. They can be useful in comparing different sheets, but the most important factor is your personal preference. What is considered a good thread count for cotton sheets is not nearly as important as what feels most comfortable to you.