Recognize Quality Bedding

How to recognize quality bedding.

We offer a wide variety of quality sheets and bedding to help you get a good night’s sleep. Let us guide you through the important details in choosing which sheets are right for you.

Thread Count

Thread count is probably the most advertised attribute for bed linens, yet it is not a very accurate indicator of true quality. Thread count is simply the number of yarns (threads) woven together in one square inch of fabric.

To achieve a high thread count, sometimes multi-ply yarns are used (a multi-ply yarn is one where more than one yarn is twisted together) and each of the plys are counted in the thread count. Whether a fabric is woven from single-ply or multi-ply yarns is not as important as the quality of the cotton used to spin the yarns.

Through technological advancements in weaving, thread counts can now range to over 1,200. The notion that more is better no longer holds true. Although a high thread count often denotes high quality, we suggest you take other attributes of bedding under consideration as well. These include the staple length of the cotton and the finishing techniques used.

There are four basic constructions of bedding

Percale weave is used for the majority of bedding. An even number of threads alternately cross over and under another, to produce a strong, even fabric.

Twill weave, identified by a diagonal rib or twill line, is used to produce strong bedding fabric that can have a softer “drape“ than a plain weave.

Sateen weave is used to produce smooth, lustrous, higher thread count bedding with a thick close texture. The number of yarns exposed on the surface of the fabric gives sateen its characteristic sheen.

Patterned weaves, such as jacquard and damask, are the most difficult and most expensive to produce due to their complexity, and are some of the most durable fabrics used in bed linens.

When considering flannel or jersey knit sheets, the weight of the fabric and quality of the cotton are more important than the thread count.

Fabric Finish

When selecting bedding, take into consideration if any special fabric finishing techniques have been utilized. The three most commonly used functional finishes are mercerizing, shrinkage control, and wrinkle resistance.

Mercerizing improves the shape of the individual cotton fibers, by adding strength, luster, and an increased affinity for dyes.

Shrinkage control keeps the fabric from shrinking no more than 1% to 2% when properly cared for. An example of shrinkage control is when a fabric is Sanforized®.

Wrinkle resistance is applied to some cotton fabrics used in bedding so they require little or no ironing after washing.

Here are a few tips to help you recognize quality linens:

  • The weave of the fabric should be firm, which can be tested by scratching the surface of the cloth. If the threads shift easily, the product may be inclined to develop holes at the seamed edges.
  • The weave of the linens should be uniform. Hold a sheet to the light and look for any unusually thick or thin areas. Bedding in which the weave is not uniform will wear unevenly.
  • The color should be even and look fresh. If there is a fold or crease in the product, check whether the color has rubbed off. This could be an indication of poor dye quality.
  • Printed designs should be even, with no undyed areas showing through except in areas of the design which are meant to be white.
  • A print that is geometric or symmetrical should be printed at right angles.
  • No powdery dust should appear on the surface of the bed linens. If so, this is an indication of too much sizing and may conceal poor quality.
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