Does thread count matter when choosing sheets?

The answer is both yes and no, but not in the way you'd expect. In recent years high thread count has become synonymous with high quality when in truth it's more of a marketing gimmick used to quickly convince customers to purchase. And while there is a sweet spot - thread count range that makes for the best sheets - there are other factors that should be considered as well. These include fiber quality, ply and weave.

What is thread count?

Thread count refers to the number of vertical and horizontal threads per square inch. Higher thread count does not necessarily make the sheets softer or better quality.

Under 200 TC

Anything lower than 200 thread count is generally considered poor quality resulting in a relatively thin sheet that lacks durability. Manufacturers use thicker yarns to compensate for low thread count which causes the fabric to have a rougher feel. 

200 - 600 TC

This is the sweet spot. Sheets with thread count between 200 and 600 are breathable and soft with good strength and durability.

Above 600 TC

Thread counts above 600 often result in poorer quality sheets that can feel thick, rough and lack breathability. Some manufacturers inflate thread count by using double- or even triple-ply thread which is usually made from poor quality fibers wrapped together resulting in sheets that pill easily and fall apart quickly. 

What you need to know

Ply

Ply refers to the number of threads wrapped together to form a single thread. Ply comes in multiple forms, there is a single-ply or multiple-ply. For example, double-ply is two threads twisted together to create one thread.

Cotton

Cotton is durable, affordable, soft, breathable and easy to maintain. But not all cotton is created equal and you should pay attention to the kind of fiber is used. Long-staple fibers are of much higher quality and provide more durability.

Weave

Weave refers to the pattern of how the thread is put together. There’s twill, jersey knit, flannel, percale and sateen. Each weaving technique gives a sheet its individualized feel.  

Cloverlane Sheets

All of our bed linens feature 100% long-staple cotton and anti-microbial protection to keep you cozy and your sheets fresh, night after night. Our percale collection features a 300 thread count and our sateen collection has 600 thread count.

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Quality for our Customers

At Cloverlane, we choose to focus on the aspects that matter and stand behind our quality and our materials. When you buy our sheets, you have 365 days to test them out in your own home, and if you don't love them, just contact our team and we'll work with you to find a solution or we'll issue you a full refund.

Cloverlane - Designed for Comfort, Made to Last

Long-Lasting Luxury

We're all about luxury that can and should 
be lived in. Our products are designed to last and get softer with every wash.

Free SHipping & REturns

There are no minimums for free ground shipping in the contiguous U.S. We also cover return shipping charges.

Charity partners

We're committed to keeping product out of our landfills. We donate all returns to charity.

With Cloverlane, you have 365 days and nights to confidently say yes to loving your linens.

And if you decide they are not right for any reason... returning them is as easy as an email. (yes, even if you washed them.)

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What Cloverlane Customers Are Saying

I bought the Percale sheet set for my son. He tends to get hot and sweaty at night, so I decided to see if these sheets might help. He absolutely loves the sheets. Says they are extremely comfortable and keep him cooler. I like that he is not so sweaty during the night -- less visits to the washing machine! I will be buying more. :-)

Cindy Y. - Bel Air, MD

This duvet cover is amazing! Lightweight, warm but doesn't make you sweat at night , also, extremely soft. I also bought the duvet insert and so far I love it! Definitely recommend to buy together.

Laura J. - Albany, NY

hands down, the best sheets I've ever slept on! ridiculously soft and smooth! the pillow covers have an extra pocket to make sure they stay in place, which is a nice touch. sleeping on these is amazing, they keep me cool and cozy.

Isabella M. - Denver, CO

Top Questions

Do I have to pay for shipping?

No, ground shipping is always free in the contiguous United States.

Do I have to pay for return shipping?

No, our team will provide you with an address of a local (to you) charity donation center or with a prepaid shipping label.

Can I return items that have been opened or washed?

Yes, we want you to try out and love the product under your normal use and will accept opened and washed items within 365 days of purchase. Should you decide to initiate a return, our team will find a local donation center or provide you with a pre-paid shipping label to one.

What is your return policy?

We stand behind the quality of our products and are confident you will love your new bedding and bath linens.

If you are unhappy with your order for any reason, you can initiate a return for items purchased on our site within 365 days of purchase.

All returns will be refunded to the original method of payment. If your original form of payment is no longer active or unable to process the refund, you will receive store credit.