Can someone fill me in on the thread count thing on sheets?

What's a good count what's a bad count. I'm confused

From Ask Yahoo . Com

What does the thread count of sheets refer to?
Erik


Dear Erik:
We searched on 'thread count of sheets' and 'linens buying guide' and had to rip past dozens of sites trying to sell sheets before we found your answer. Finally, we came to rest upon this definition: thread count is the number of horizontal and vertical threads in one square inch of fabric.
Thread count in sheets can range from 80 to 700, although most stores sell sheets that range from 180 to 320. In general, the higher the thread count, the softer the fabric feels, but that doesn't necessarily mean the sheets will last longer (and sheets with a higher thread count are usually more expensive). One linens department manager says thread counts above 380 are 'kind of a farce.' Manufacturers twist two threads in a way that lets them double the sheet's thread count.

Recently, many linens manufacturers have touted thread count as the best way to choose a sheet. But others point out that the quality of the fibers and finish are more important to the sheet's comfort and durability. In fact, sheets made of linen, flannel, or jersey (those trendy 'T-shirt' sheets) have low thread counts due to the type of fabric. A high thread count would eliminate part of the appeal of these sheets.

According to Consumer Reports, cotton and cotton-blend sheets with a thread count of 180 to 200 stand up to wear and tear and provide satisfactory comfort.

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Posted by mrsmeri1104

Thank you!!!!

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you may want to check out overstock.com ---- DH & I bought a couple of sets of high quailty/high thread count sheets for really low prices.

Higher thread counts are overrated. (It's a big marketing ploy for the most part.) You really have to feel the linens to get an idea. God, I've felt some higher TCs that felt like sandpaper. Currently, my favorite sheets are Cotton Sateen 300 TC.

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Posted by Jenny5150

Higher thread counts are overrated. (It's a big marketing ploy for the most part.) You really have to feel the linens to get an idea. God, I've felt some higher TCs that felt like sandpaper. Currently, my favorite sheets are Cotton Sateen 300 TC.

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I agree. My DH bought 600-thread count sheets and they are no better than our 300-count, and they were so much more expensive. A total waste of money!

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Posted by chmlengr

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Posted by Jenny5150

Higher thread counts are overrated. (It's a big marketing ploy for the most part.) You really have to feel the linens to get an idea. God, I've felt some higher TCs that felt like sandpaper. Currently, my favorite sheets are Cotton Sateen 300 TC.

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I agree. My DH bought 600-thread count sheets and they are no better than our 300-count, and they were so much more expensive. A total waste of money!

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I don't know, I have 1000TC sheets and they are fantastic! Totally unlike the normal 250.

Now I'm wondering if there's a big difference between 500, 800 and 1000 because I need some more (since we got them, they're the only sheets that go on our bed - which is rather inconvenient!! )

-overstock and smartbargains usually have decent prices

I have read that the most important thing is the KIND of cotton..

so a 100% Egyptian cotton sheet at 200 thread count will be of a higher quality than a

100% non-Egyptian cotton or cotton blend where only 50% is Egyptian and has a 600 thread count