If you are ready to change your bedding, you may not know where to look for quality textiles. Some companies plan a New York textile show or have showrooms where you can browse. When you go shopping, here are tips for choosing quality bed linens.
Thread Count
This used to be an indicator of quality linen but that is not true any more. Some companies cheat by twisting the yarn and making the thread count higher. If the thread is softer by nature, then the cloth will be softer than a cloth with the same thread count. For example, you can have a lower thread count of Egyptian cotton and it will feel softer than cloth with a higher thread count made with lower quality thread. In reality, a 1000 count sheet may be rather stiff.
Weave
Some people like crisp sheets, like a percale, and others prefer softness, like sateen. In colder climates, many people prefer the nappy feel and warmth of flannel. This is a matter of personal taste and one weave is not superior to another.
Material
Material is also a personal choice. Here are 4 types:
- Cotton – Cotton is preferred by many because it breathes. The best are Egyptian, Pima and Sea Island.
- Supima – These sheets are made of pima cotton, known for its softness.
- Polyblend – Some prefer these because they do not wrinkle easily.
- Linen – Linen is good for warm climates because it is light and soft.
