DEAR GAIL: We’re going to be buying a new bed and going from a queen to a king. In the past I’ve just bought whatever sheets were on sale. I know good quality sheets are expensive, but I’d like to buy just a couple sets of nice sheets this time. So what do I need to know before I head out shopping? Louise S.
DEAR LOUISE: Sheets come in all types, thread counts and prices. They are the basic foundation for your bedding and what makes you comfy and cozy when you snuggle down to sleep. Before heading out shopping there are four things you need to consider that will same you time and money: thread count, fabric content, weave and size.
Thread count is the first thing to check when picking up a packaged sheet. It is extremely important in how long they will last and how they will feel. Thread count is the number of threads woven into each square inch. So the higher the number, the softer and longer they will last.
Look for at least 200 or higher. Anything under will be rough on your skin and after a few washings pill. Many of the sheet sets that come in a bed-in-a-bag set are under the 200-thread count, probably between 160-180. Also, you can assume that if a thread count is not listed, it is fewer than 200.
The starting thread count point for economy sheets, range from 200 -250 threads. They will be either 100% or a cotton/polyester blend. They are not going to have a particularly soft hand, but will be O.K. In the decorating industry, the word "hand" refers to how something feels to the touch in your hand, like fabric, carpet, or sheets. Is it soft, rough, silky, or hard? In this thread count range, it is unusual to find higher-quality sheets.
The next range is 275-350 and they are normally much more luxurious. You’ll see different thread count and cotton type combinations, which is where buying sheets get confusing. One manufacture may use 100% Egyptian cotton with a 275-thread count and another will use a downgraded Pima cotton but with a 375 thread cotton. Both are better quality sheets but you’ll need to open the package and see which one you like the feel of best. There will also be different weaves, which give sheets with the same thread count a different feel or hand. We’ll talk about this is just a bit.
You’ll also see 400-count. Make sure to read the packaging, as it may be a double-layered weave so it may be heavier and not necessarily softer.
My personal favorites are hotel linens that are 100% cotton with a 650-thread count. I have two sets that I switch with each washing and they get softer each time. For the feel and the thread count, I felt they were a good investment at $200 for a king set.
Fabric content is the next item you want to look at and there is a wide range of 100% cotton and cotton/polyester blends. There are also different grades of cotton, which is determined by the length of its fiber. The longer the fiber, the more luxurious and durable the cotton.
The two most popular are: Egyptian cotton, which is the highest quality and provides the softest feel. Supima or Pima cotton is produced in the U.S. and is also very soft and durable.
100% cotton sheets will be the softest and the most breathable, but will wrinkle. The cotton/polyester blends do not wrinkle, but do not breathe or absorb moisture as well.
Another important item to look at is the weave. The type of weave changes the feel and durability of the sheet. If the packaging doesn’t list the weave, assume it is a standard weave of alternating one stitch over and one stitch under.
Sateen weaves are extremely soft although less durable than others. It is softer because most of the threads are placed on the surface when weaving, which is what makes it less durable. Pinpoint weave is more durable but not as soft as sateen. Again, you need to open the package and feel for yourself. If you are purchasing a high thread count of Egyptian or Pima cotton your sheets should last for years, so purchase what feels the best to you.
The last things you need to have with you are all the dimensions of your mattress. Sheets do come in standard sizes, although the depths have changed, so shop with your measurements. You’ll also need to know if you have a regular or Eastern King, which is 76 or 78 x 80, or a California or Western King at 72 x 84.
Take your time shopping and instead of buying a bunch of printed sets, purchase one or two quality solid sets that coordinate with your printed bedding.