How Many Threads Should Good Sheets Have

For good bed linen in cotton percale, the useful range starts at 200 threads. In sateen, at 500. More threads does not mean better quality, though: the quality of the cotton and the density of the cloth are the determining factors. That is why at Matarranz we always work in extra-long-staple cotton, in the finest qualities in the world, securing the highest excellence even at very high thread counts, and making pieces that stand out for their magnificent handle and their durability.

Thread count is the most visible figure on the label of a set of sheets, and also the most misread. The answer to how many threads good sheets should have depends on the weave, on the type of cotton and on the use.

What Is Thread Count, and How Is It Measured?

Thread count is the total number of threads in a square inch of cloth. It indicates the density of the weave, not intrinsic quality. A yarn of long-staple cotton — Egyptian or Pima — produces a sheet that is softer and longer-lasting than one in short-staple cotton at the same count. High thread counts can therefore be reached without any loss of quality; quite the opposite, if the cotton is extra-long staple, as the cotton we always use at Matarranz is.

Does a Higher Thread Count Mean Better Quality?

Not always. As the thread count rises in percale, the cloth gains density but loses breathability if the cotton used is not of the right quality, or if the staple is short.

How Many Threads Should Sheets Have, by Weave?

Percale

Percale has a plain weave: a firm texture, high coolness and breathability. The useful range starts at 200 threads.

Sateen

Sateen uses a floating weave: a lustrous surface and a soft handle. The useful range starts at 500 threads. Sheets of 500 threads and above in sateen bring weight, drape and an enveloping physical presence — the reference for luxury bedrooms and hotel suites.

Which Factors Matter More Than Thread Count?

Three factors determine quality more precisely than the count does:

• The quality of the cotton. Long-staple cotton — Egyptian, Pima or extra-long — produces finer, more even and stronger yarns. With short staple, the cloth frays and forms small balls with use: progressive pilling.
• Finishing and mercerisation. A good finish includes mercerising the cotton — more lustre, more strength and better dye absorption — and an anti-pilling treatment.
• Even density across the cloth. An even interlacing across the whole square inch indicates better manufacture and greater resistance to wear.

A Practical Guide: Which Thread Count to Choose

• Everyday use, summer, warm climates: percale from 200 threads in long-staple cotton. Coolness, softness and durability.
• Winter, or a sensation of luxury first: sateen from 500 threads in long-staple cotton. More density and an enveloping handle.
• Hospitality with industrial laundering: percale of 200 to 500 threads. Greater resistance through heavy wash cycles.
• Suites and premium rooms: sateen of 500 threads or more in Egyptian or Pima cotton. The sensation of luxury that distinguishes high-quality bed linen in the upper end of hospitality.

At Matarranz we make percale and sateen bed linen in our own workshop, and have done since 1911, in selected extra-long-staple cotton and with made-to-measure work for residential and hotel projects alike. Explore the Matarranz sheet collection, and ask us for advice on your project if you need it.