Know your sheets
This article and tip sponsored by
Divatex, maker of Kirkland Signature™
540-thread-count Pima sateen and
Portuguese heavyweight flannel sheets.
REMEMBER WHEN A SHEET was just a sheet? Nowadays, it’s all about
thread count, or so it seems. But that’s just one of several factors to consider
when purchasing sheets.
Thread count. This refers to the
number of vertical (warp) and horizontal (weft) threads in a square
inch of fabric. Typically, the higher the thread count, the softer and
more lustrous the fabric.
Most people prefer a higher-thread-count cotton sheet. Years
ago, 180 to 200 thread counts were
considered the standard for a quality
sheet. Now, with advanced weaving Subtle patterns lend a touch of class
techniques, sheets are produced in to bedroom décor.
higher thread counts ranging from
400 to 600 thread counts using single-ply cotton yarns.
However, if you see sheets with
very high thread counts, the manufacturer may be weaving two-ply yarns
and counting the plys, or individual
strands, that are twisted together
to make the thread. Don’t expect
the same performance and durability
from a sheet made with two-ply
(twisted) yarns as those made with
single-ply yarns. Solid-color sheets and pillowcases have a calming effect in the bedroom.
Fiber length. The longer the fiber, or
staple, the stronger and softer the resulting fabric. Both Egyptian and Pima
or Supima cottons have long staples
and are usually identified as such.
Combed or carded cotton. A good
bet is combed cotton. Combing removes fibers that are short or dead
(which appear as specks on finished
sheets). Combed yarn is stronger,
softer, more lustrous and has a more
even appearance.
Bold, yarn-dyed plaid patterns in the
pillows and sheets draw attention to
the bed.
