Welcome to All in the Detail... I am so glad
you are here!
There are hundreds of types of bed sheets online and
in stores. The selection can be overwhelming. Thread counts, fabrics, weaves,
fit… who knew choosing sheets could be so complicated?
Here’s some answers to some questions about sheets.
Hopefully they make the next bed linen
shopping trip a little easier.
What does thread count actually mean?
Thread count refers to the tightness of the weave and the number
of threads per square inch. The higher the thread count, the tighter the weave,
the softer the sheet and the more durable the sheet over time.
But should thread count be your main criteria for sheet
selection? No.
Aim for a mid-range thread count around 300 to 450, then select
the sheet that feels best to you. Be wary of astronomical thread counts in the
1,000 range. There are tricks that sheet makers use to inflate thread count
that doesn’t necessarily translate to better quality sheets.
What
fabric is best for sheets?
Cotton comes to mind first – with good reason. It is
generally agreed the best and softest sheets use high-quality, long-staple
cotton, such as 100-percent Egyptian or Pima. But there are many cotton blends
available. A cotton percale delivers a cool, crisp linen feel while cotton
sateen has a satin weave smoother to the touch with a luxurious sheen finish.
Flannel cotton is soft and cozy and a favorite for cold weather climates. If
you love T-shirt fabric, consider jersey knit sheets with loads of stretchy
softness and a bit clingy. It all comes back to personal taste. And it’s
perfectly acceptable to have multiple sheet sets on hand to complement the
change of season.
Choose a blend that’s right
for you, but I stick to cotton (and white because it is so easy to bleach and keep fresh. The same goes with my bath towels - white, but that's for another time).
What
are microfiber bed sheets?
Microfiber sheets are made of fibers so fine they do not occur
naturally. It is a synthetic material that feels soft, smooth and even
slippery. Note that microfiber will not have a cotton crispness.
Microfiber sheets can vary a lot. Compare several brands and
styles side by side before you buy.
Which sheets are easier care?
Laundering sheets is basically the same regardless of material or thread count. However, some sheets hold up better over time and multiple washings. Microfiber sheets do not have the longevity compared to thicker fabrics and weaves.
Cotton-polyester blends are the easiest care with a wrinkle-free finish. But they can also be less soft and comfortable.
Do some
sheets fit better than others?
As in clothes, perfectly sized bed sheets look and
feel better. The fitted sheet is key. Look for all-around elastic for a snug
fit (some sheets only have elastic in the corners). If you have a non-standard
mattress (e.g. extra-long twin, California king or thick pillow top) look for
sheets with added depth or length and deep pockets. It will state this on the
packaging.
Fitted sheets are key to the
perfect fit. Remember to measure extra depth if you add a mattress topper to a
standard mattress.
My Top 5 Tips for Keeping Bed Sheets Beautiful
Year after Year.
Year after Year.
1. Wash sheets
and pillowcases once a week in cold or warm water with a mild detergent or
specialized linen powder.
2. Dissolve
detergent in water before putting sheets in the washing machine.
3. Do not bleach;
it can deteriorate soft cottons.
4. Dry bed sheets
on permanent press. Remove while still damp to prevent wrinkling.
5. Spring clean
your linen closet just like your clothes closet. Throw out bedding that’s worn
or grayed.
