Last updated May 6, 2021 | Bedding, Sheets
If you’re on the lookout for new bed sheets, you could be walking into a whole new world of terms you’re unfamiliar with.
What the heck are thread counts? Why does the weave matter? Did you think that “ply” only applied to toilet paper?
A whole lot more than you may expect goes into making high-quality bedding. We’re going to get down to the basics of bedroom décor and break down how to shop for the best bedding.
What are Thread Counts?
Thread counts are a measurement of the number of threads in one square inch of fabric. It lets you know how tightly the fabric is woven.
Manufacturers calculate thread counts by adding the warp and weft threads in a certain area. This means that they add how many threads run lengthwise and how many run widthwise.
If your sheets have 110 warp threads and 110 weft threads in a square inch of the fabric, it has a thread count of 220. Many people think they should use thread count as a way to indicate how soft the fabric feels.
Companies that market bed sheets use thread count as a selling point to indicate that their sheets are of a higher quality than their competitors. What feels more luxurious than knowing your room is decked out in high thread counts and exotic ceiling fans?
The truth is a little more complicated than that.
What is the Best Thread Count?
In truth, there is no “best thread count.” The quality of your sheets depends on the quality of the threads, not the thread count. In fact, each type of fabric has a different ideal thread count.
At the very least, your sheets should have a minimum thread count of 200. Anything less than 200 is loosely woven and won’t feel as soft.
Both the type of fabric and how it is woven will make a difference in what thread count to look for.
For example, percale is a “plain weave” pattern. It has a one over, one under pattern. Percale sheets should have a thread count between 180 and 200 to be considered average quality.
On the other hand, to achieve an average quality set of sateen sheets, they must be tightly woven. They would have a thread count between 250 and 300.
Here are the thread counts for high-quality fabric depending on the material:
- Linen: 80-140
- Cotton: 200-400
- Egyptian Cotton: 300-400
- Bamboo: 300-500
As a side note, linen sheets don’t typically list the thread count on the packaging. High thread counts should be avoided when buying linen sheets.
Also, many popular materials for making bedsheets don’t use thread counts to measure the quality. For example, silk is measured in a unit called a “momme.” This is a measurement that looks at how much a 45 inch by 100-yard piece of silk weighs.
Microfiber, jersey, and flannel are measured in grams per square meter, or GSM.
Does High Thread Count Mean Better Sheets?
In short, no. A higher thread count doesn’t always mean more comfortable or higher quality sheets. This correlation between a high thread count and more comfortable sheets usually tapers off at a certain point.
For most fabrics, once you’ve hit the 600 thread count marker, generally the only noticeable difference will be the price tag. High thread counts, in the 600-800 range, won’t feel any softer or last any longer than the sheets in the 200-600 range.
Plus, if manufacturers packed more than 800 threads in a square inch, your fabric would be bulky and would stifle airflow.
Important Aspects of Good Bedding
Now you understand the basics of thread counts and how to spot good sheets based on that number. But, as we mentioned, there is so much more that goes into making high-quality bedding. Fabric material, weave pattern, and ply count all matter too.
Fabric Material
For higher-quality bed sheets, look for labels that tell you that they were made with extra long fibers. For example, long-staple or extra-long-staple cotton ensures that the fibers won’t stick out from the weave and become uncomfortable.
Another good option for cotton sheets is combed cotton. Cotton is considered “combed” when the manufacturers remove short fibers from the cotton before they spin it.
In general, all-natural fibers will have a much better feel than anything made from polyester.
Weave
There are two different kinds of weaves: plain and satin.
In a plain weave, the horizontal and vertical threads alternate one after the other throughout the weave. Think of it like a checkerboard pattern.
With a satin weave, the weft threads lie along four warp threads at once. This allows there to be more vertical threads in each weave and creates a much softer, smoother sheet.
Sheets with a plain weave are great for people who get overheated overnight. The weave allows for plenty of airflow to help keep you cool.
Sheets with a satin weave are a little better for colder nights. They’re more tightly woven and they feel heavier and more sturdy.
Ply Count
Single-ply sheets are sheets with one strand of yarn per thread. These are more high quality because they use strong, fine threads to create their weave.
Multi-ply sheets use more strands because the threads are more prone to becoming brittle and breaking. They feel more coarse and thick.
Finding the Best Bedroom Decorations
Who knew that buying bed sheets would be so complicated? When it comes to finding the best quality sheets you can afford, there is a lot of information to consider. Just remember that high thread counts and high price tags don’t always mean a better sleeping experience.
At the end of the day, you need to be happy with the decision you made. If you find that you’re more drawn to the way a lower thread count feels, there’s no shame in using them! It all depends on your personal preferences and what makes you comfortable when you rest your head at night.
For more design tips and tricks, keep reading!
Mar 2, 2021 | Bedding, Sheets
Picture this: You have some beautiful bed sheets that impress everyone that comes across it. You’re delighted with them in all aspects, except for one. Every time you place them in the washing machine or dryer, they roll up into balls that cause them not to get washed or dry thoroughly. Additionally, it becomes a hassle trying to unroll them after a wash and eliminate the annoying creases. If this is you, then you are far from alone. While the best trick is to use the best dyer sheets, when it comes to washing it’s not so simple.
This annoying problem is what many people complain about when washing their bedsheets, and it can take hours away from the washer trying to fix creases or rewash. Luckily, there are certain things you can do to fix this issue. Here are five actions you can do to keep your sheets from balling up.
When Done Washing, Uncouple
When we’re done washing, many of us have half a mind to ball up our sheets together and dump it all into the dryer. However, this simple act will act more hours to your washing than you bargained for. Instead, it is essential you carefully untangle sheets before you wash.
If you have the time, it would be best not to wash too many sheets at a time; two is the required maximum. Also, you should make sure you also untangle any other pillowcases from the main bed sheet.
Dryer Balls Are Useful
Dryer balls are objects designed with the intention of stopping bed sheets from getting balled up. They work by simply dropping the balls into the dryer drum with your bedsheets. These dryer balls help to allow air to circulate in the dryer and help to keep your bed sheets separate. Alternatively, you can also use a few tennis if you don’t want to use dryer balls. They also perform this function effectively.
Don’t Overwork Your Dryer
Dumping too much into your dryer may cause your dryer not to function effectively, causing your bedsheets to tangle and get rumpled. Continuing to do this may even damage your bedsheets and dryer!
Duvet Covers Should Be Buttoned
Due to the size of duvets, they can quickly engulf bed sheets and pillowcases. This engulfing wouldn’t let the bed sheets wash well, and it will also increase the chance of getting balled up. That said, if you have duvets that have buttons, make sure you button them up to avoid this. If you have enough hours on your hands, you should try to wash duvets separately from bed sheets.
Sort Your Fabrics Correctly
This tip is one of the most useful pieces of information in order not to get balled up bed sheets. You should sort your fabric based on texture, size, or any other way you want to categorize them.
If possible, you should try and wash bed sheets separately from other household fabrics such as hand towels, pillowcases, and tea towels.
The Bottom Line
Sometimes, getting your bedsheets balled up is inevitable. However, these tips mentioned above can help you prevent that from happening as much as possible.
Mar 1, 2021 | Bedding, Sheets
Something to love about the fashion industry and clothes, mainly, is the variety of fabrics available. This variety allows you to try different styles and combine them to create new, revolutionary looks. One of the best fabrics to try this with is flannel.
Flannel is a warm and soft material that we use to make shirts, pants, underwear, and of course the best flannel sheets. People use this fabric mostly for winter due to its soft, warm and cozy texture. The flannel’s elegant look makes it a top choice among bedding enthusiasts to top it all off.
However, as comfortable as it is to sleep on this fabric, it is also one of those fabrics that must be carefully and adequately cleaned to retain its quality.
This is why you should properly manage and wash flannel sheets to maintain their elegance and beauty.
All The Conditions To Meet
- Warm Water: Since flannel is a delicate fabric, you need to make sure you wash in warm water. A temperature that is too cold or too hot may cause the flannel to get rumpled.
- Mild detergent: To wash this fabric, you will need gentle detergent. The strong detergent may irrevocably damage your flannel sheets.
- Fabric softener: This product is a must if you want to keep your flannel fabric in tip-top shape. Alternatively, you can also use white vinegar or dryer sheets.
How To Wash Flannel
- It would be best if you started by putting warm water in your washing machine. As mentioned earlier, never wash flannel in cold or hot water as this may cause your sheets to get rumpled. Throughout the wash, it would be best if you kept the water warm.
- You can then add your mild detergent to the water. If you use regular detergent, it will work as expected but will cause your flannel to fade over time. Hence, it is essential not to overlook this warning. Harsh detergent, bleach, and other strong chemicals will damage your fabric irredeemably.
- The permanent press or the gentle cycle setting is how you should wash your flannel, depending on what model of washing machine you have and how big the sheets are.
- After you’re done washing your flannel, you can decide to hang it to dry or dry it using your washing machine, although hanging to dry may be slightly better. If you’re using your washing machine to dry it, then you should make sure you remove it immediately it gets dry. If you leave it in the dryer for too long, it will cause the fabric to weaken. It would also be best if you dry it in low or no heat, as this helps to preserve the fabric’s quality for a longer amount of time.
Some Additional Tips
When the flannel gets washed over time, it tends to get smaller. That said, if you want to buy a flannel shirt, make sure you get one slightly bigger than your bed. If your flannel sheets are shedding, you may be able to solve this by adding one-half cup of vinegar.
If you follow these fantastic tips on how to wash and adequately take care of flannel, then you will most likely have that beautiful piece of fabric for a long, long time.
Last updated Mar 21, 2021 | Bedding, Sheets
It is quite exciting to buy gifts for the people you love the most, but sometimes you run out of ideas. Especially when it’s the holidays, and you know your friends and family must be flooded with gifts—finding that unique gift is indeed a task. It takes a little outside the box, thinking to find the perfect gift.
One of the most amazing products, also known as the most potential gift of the year, is the bed sheet. You might be feeling a bit odd, it seems a little weird at first, but it would be loved and adored by your friends and family.
The idea of bed sheets as a gift does not occur to everyone, but why not give something that can be enjoyed regularly? A bed sheet is indeed a thoughtful gift, and not everyone thinks of it as a gift, which makes your offering unique.
Whether you are thinking about a newlywed gift or a couple who moved into a new place, bedding is a perfect gift for couples as stated by Hutch.pk – online bedding stores; it gives a fresh start and a refreshing look to a room. A study proves that a clean and fresh environment increases the love between the couple.
Bed Sheet Sets for a Couple Who Recently Moved to Their New Home
Suppose you know a couple who recently moved into a place and are worried about the house-warming present. The couple must have everything, but they need something to refresh their bedroom. Give them a bed sheet!
Besides, if you think about how a bed sheet will look ordinary, let us clear how you can make it extraordinary!
How Can You Make the Bed Sheet Set Look Extraordinary?
We are not suggesting you present a simple bed sheet with limited pillow covers. You can make your gift astounding by just adding fancy touches. Whether you know or you do not know the bed size, you can still make a fantastic set.
However, a little knowledge about the taste of the opposite party is appreciated. If you know about the color of the room, it will help you in making the right choice. The majority of people love to have a hotel kind of environment in their room, but it takes a lot of effort and planning.
You can style the bed sheet set like the one you get in hotels. All you need to do is decide on two standard size bed sheets. Moreover, keeping the taste of the other person in mind, you can choose the colors and the print. Once you are done with it, you need to pair the bed sheets with the pillows.
Now, in hotels, you get multiple pillows! You can either get just the pillow covers—or you can get the fillings as well. Besides, you need to get four standard size pillows and 4 square pillows.
Once you are all good with the fabric and the print—time for some fancies, you can add either frill pattern on the bed sheet, or you can get some designing on the edges. This will give a new look to your gift. You can get the same design done on the pillow as well.
Now comes the most exciting part! The duvet cover—this will make your gift exceptional, and the receiver might not expect this coming. Pair your bed sheet and the pillow cover with a matching or contrasting duvet cover.
By following the above steps, you can create a perfect gift for couples. This will also add an emotional touch, and the couple will always remember you. Also, this gift is convenient. Now everyone buys new bed sheets while moving; your gift will give them a fresher feeling about their place.
Reasons Why Bedding Makes a Great Gift for Couples:
1. Comfort Gift
Bedding is one of the most comforting gifts in the world. Nothing can be more comforting than a bed sheet set. You can give a complete wedding-bedding to your new-wedded friend. Your gift will help them in achieving a hotel type experience every time they go to bed.
2. A Gift That Can Be Cherished for a Long Time
You got it right! The bed sheet is a gift that can be cherished for a long time. The couple must be living together, but they have recently married. They need to throw the old, ratty duvet covers and bed sheets. You can help them in revamping and recreating a new look in their room.
3. Peaceful Gift
You can pair the bed sheet with other relaxing gifts as well. You can also pair two bed sheets with one duvet cover. Moreover, you also add a touch of aromatherapy products such as a candle, room-freshener, or soothing lotion. Indeed a perfect combination gift for a newlywed.
4. Quality-Sleep
Newlywed couples are exhausted after their wedding. Attending the events and dinners can be extremely tiresome. They might not think that a good, clean, and fresh set of sheets and bedding can help them with peaceful sleep. You can help them in starting their journey on the right foot, a quality-sleep!
5. Customization
It is not necessary that you just buy a bed sheet and pair it with pillow covers and give it to the couple. The bed sheet is a customizable product. You can easily customize it and add a personal touch to it. Moreover, it is quite easy to get a bed sheet customized. All you need to do is think about new ideas. You can get a personalized bed sheet with name initials or funny quotes or something. Or, you can also get the pillow covers customized.
So yeah, now you know what you are going to give to your loved ones. It is not about the perfect gift; it is the thought that matters the most. Couples usually look forward to their wedding gifts. The newlywed couples have almost everything, as they shop for their new lift. But, a thoughtful gift can make their new journey more memorable. Next time, if you are worried about a unique gift—simply go for a bedding set.
Last updated Jun 14, 2021 | Sheets
Unless you’re Martha Stewart, odds are you know the bare minimum about thread count. It’s not exactly a topic discussed at dinner parties.
But did you know that having a basic understanding of thread count and what your options are can greatly enhance your comfort at night?
Not all sheets are created equal. When it comes to optimizing your bed’s coziness, thread count plays a big role. Here’s a basic guide to understanding it and how it can change your world for the better.
What is Thread Count?
When you’re buying sheets and you see a “thread count” on the label, this simply refers to the number of vertical and horizontal lines in every square inch. Most sheets with thread counts between 200 and 800 are considered soft, and high quality.
Basically, the higher the thread count, the more threads used to create the sheet. This generally means that the sheet is softer and more durable than others with a lower thread count.
Typically, most sheets get softer as you wash and use them. Ideally, with a higher thread count, you should start off with ultra-soft sheets. Unfortunately, that high number may not always mean a softer sheet.
However, there are a few tricky things to keep in mind when shopping for sheets that will prevent you from being fooled by a high thread count on the label.
Don’t Be Fooled
Ever heard of “ply”? Well, this little word makes a big difference in whether the thread count you see on a label is actually the number of threads used to create the sheet.
Ply refers to the number of threads that are wrapped together to make one single thread. For example, you may see a sheet advertised with a 400 thread count with double-ply.
This means that sheet fabric is made of two threads twisted together to create every single thread. So those “400” threads actually equate to 200 for your true thread count.
In contrast, if that same sheet was single-ply, it would, in fact, have 400 single threads in it.
Single Versus Double-Ply
Now that you understand the difference between single and double-ply fabrics, how do you know which you’d prefer? Both types offer different things.
Single-ply fabrics will naturally be lighter and more breathable. They will be slightly more airy and delicate.
This may be great if you’re looking to cover a bed in your summer home when you’re looking for a reprieve from the heat at night.
On the other hand, double-ply is heavier and more durable. If you’re looking for warmth, double-ply works better. Especially in combination with a thicker fabric.
Importance of Fabric
Cotton, “the fabric of our lives.”
Cotton is commonly known as the most popular fabric for comfortable sheets. This is for a number of reasons. In general, cotton is known for its softness and durability. Pima cotton, in particular, can be long-lasting.
Every cotton is a breathable fabric. This means you are less likely to wake up in a sweat.
While cotton sheets sometimes feel stiff or paper-like when you first purchase them, they only improve over time. With each wash and use, they soften and become ideal for sleeping.
Egyptian cotton is absorbent and considered one of the best cottons for breathability. You can find almost any cotton material in an organic form as well. Be sure to check that the label includes the U.S. government certification.
If you’ve ever stayed in a winter cabin, you’ve probably slept in flannel sheets. Ultra-cozy on an autumn or winter night, these sheets are usually a larger-ply and hardwearing.
Of course, their warmth does mean they are generally less usable on a regular basis. That is unless you live in the arctic.
Why Weaves Matter
The weave of a sheet is how the threads are combined to create the sheet. The weave affects the feel and texture of the sheet.
Understanding the different weaves will help you select the sheet with both the look and feel you are hoping for.
Percale sheets are woven together closely. This gives them that silky, smooth texture that is often associated with luxury.
Twill weaves are what you usually see in the more durable sheets like flannel. This weave is what makes flannels sheets so soft and snuggly. Twill weaves create a raised surface, giving your sheet a downy fluffy look.
Often, you’ll see the plain-stitch knitted jersey. This sheet weave is usually found in more run-of-the-mill, (but highly comfortable), cotton sheets.
As for the sateen weave, the threads are placed on the uppermost surface of the sheet. This gives off that shiny, silky look but also doesn’t breathe as well as other weaves.
Test Before You Buy
Many retailers will allow you to feel a sheet fabric before you take the plunge. More generic sheet sets also tend to package the sheet in a bag of the same material and fabric.
This allows you to touch and decide if that particular set is right for you.
Just be sure to keep in mind what really makes you comfortable when you sleep. Thread count can make a big impact. But it’s not the only factor that affects comfort.
Choosing the Right Sheets for You
At the end of the day, choosing the best set of sheets is completely a matter of preference. A thread count is just a number. Still, there are a few helpful questions to ask yourself before buying that will help guide your choice:
- What is the temperature of my home at night?
- Do I prefer cool, breathable sheets or snug and toasty?
- Do I sleep better on silky, fuzzy, or more basic weaves like cotton-poly?
- How long do I hope to keep these sheets?
- What is my budget for bed linens?
Once you have a handle on basic sheet vocabulary, things like understanding thread count won’t be so intimidating.
For more helpful guides, hacks, and tips on creating the ideal sleep-space read our post on 5 bedding ideas that help you get a great night’s sleep. Happy sleeping!
Last updated Feb 12, 2021 | Bedding, Sheets
There’s literally no better feeling than crawling up in fresh, clean bed sheets after a hard day’s work. As a matter of fact, a recent poll discovered that clean sheets get at the top of the list of things that make people feel great. Your bed is your sanctuary while your sheets get the most wear and tear every day. That’s why washing your bed sheets carefully is of utmost importance – it will make your sheets last longer and give you that fresh, comfy feeling you adore so much. So, if you want clean yet properly taken care of sheets, here’s what you should avoid once you get to the laundry room.
Don’t wait too long
Let’s assume you’re lucky enough to get eight hours of sleep each night. That means that you will spend one-third of each day crawling up your bed sheets, so regular cleaning is a must. All of that sweat, body oil, dust, and dead skin cells make your sheets dirty pretty fast, so experts suggest washing them once a week. The longest you can wait between two washing cycles is two weeks but try to keep it shorter, especially during the warm periods of the year.
Don’t forget about stains
Bed sheets get stained easily, especially if you eat or do makeup in bed, so don’t forget to check for stains before you throw them in the washing machine. Pillow cases get stained the most with makeup leftovers or hair dye color. If you happen to find a stain before washing, make sure you treat it with a pre-wash stain remover. That surely is easier and more efficient than rewashing them because one cycle wasn’t strong enough.
Don’t set the temperature too high
People often assume that the hotter the cycle in the washing machine, the cleaner the sheets will be. This might be true, however – most sheets are made of cotton and all cotton shrinks, at least a little bit. Higher temperatures will make your bed sheets shorter, so try to avoid washing them in water that’s too hot and drying them at high temperature. Instead, keep it moderate – that’s the only way to prevent shrinkage and prolong your bed sheets’ lifespan.
Don’t overload your washing machine
Although it sounds efficient to wash all of your family’s bedding in one go, overloading the washing machine can do more harm than good. Contemporary washing machines can wash a lot of laundry at a single washing, but it’s important not to overload it. Besides damaging your washing machine, washing your sheets in an overloaded machine can cause them to wrinkle, tear, or don’t wash properly. Leave some room for water and detergent to circulate in order to be sure it’s done properly.
Don’t mix them with towels
When washed, towels can produce a lot of lint that will stick to your sheets and make them coated with tiny lint balls. Also, towels produce a lot of friction which can shorten your sheets’ lifespan. Keeping these two apart is especially important for drying since the fabrics are not the same and sheets will dry faster. This doesn’t mean that you always have to wash bed sheets separately. It’s okay to combine them with some light cotton fabrics that are not too different from the bedding fabric, but towels are a big no.
Don’t use harsh detergents
Neither too much detergent nor too harsh detergent will be good for your bed sheets. This is particularly important if you have bed sheets of a fine quality – the wrong detergent can damage them or make them fade. Remember that your sheets don’t get as dirty as your pants or T-shirts, so using a mild detergent is completely fine. Think baby detergents and you’ll have the softest sheets that will also smell like heaven.
Now, when was the last time you washed your sheet sets? Do it today, don’t make these common mistakes, and voilà – you’ll provide yourself with a heavenly good night of sleep right away!
