How to Choose Top Quality Bed Linen
There is a wide variety of factors that go into the creation of top-quality bed linen. Most people are familiar with thread count, but this is not the only factor to be aware of.
Many retailers will use thread count as a marketing ploy to indicate they offer a superior product. But this can be misleading as thread count is not a precise indication of quality. As a matter of fact, high thread count can even be indicative of a lower quality linen in some cases. It is like choosing a mattress, your bedding is essential to ensure you are getting a good restful sleep. Find out everything you need to know in this Nectar mattress deep-dive.
The following guide will help you make an educated decision when choosing the best linen for your needs.
1. Choose 100% cotton
The cheaper quality bed linen is typically made from a polyester/cotton blend. Polyester is a plastic textile and is treated with harmful chemicals that shed each time they are washed. This can have negative effects on your skin and the environment as a whole. Polyester is not a breathable cloth either, which means it will trap body odors. It also makes you hotter when you sleep and as you produce more sweat the linen creates a breeding ground for bacteria.
2. Choose 60s Yarn “Long Staple” cotton
Staple length and yarn count are some other very important points to keep in mind when choosing the best bed linen. Long staple cotton fibers, especially those with a higher yarn count are the choice fabric in making soft, smooth linen with a luxurious feel. Bed linen with a yarn count of 40 or less is not top quality.
The best and most comfortable bed linen has a thread count of 60 to 80 and is the best option for achieving the balance between affordability, quality and luxurious comfort.
Bed sheets with a thread count of less than 180 to 200 are also less than desirable. This is because they are made of a fabric which is flimsy and made of coarser materials, this can make the bedding less durable.
If you hope to find a light and breathable linen, look for something with a thread count of between 200 and 350. Sheets made from a fabric with a thread count of 400 or higher in single ply are also a good choice. But single pick fabrics are typically more expensive because they have a more demanding fabrication process and feature a much higher yarn count of 80, 100 or 120.
3. The weave and fabric construction ratio
There are different types of weaves to choose as well. The two main types of weaves include sateen weave and percale weave. Sateen weave provides a soft, smooth and silky feel. Sateen also provides a better drape, an impressive luster and a luxurious feel.
Percale weaves are crisp and can feel a bit more like paper. Percale has a matte appearance and this is not a suitable option for bedding down in warmer climates.
The ratio of the weave is another factor that will play a role in the luster of the material. The horizontal threads also called “weft” are woven into the vertical threads called “warp”. For the best quality sheets, the ratio weave of 2:1 is the best option. This ratio makes for the most beautiful weaves and luxurious fabrics.
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