Does a higher thread count actually mean better sheets?

Not necessarily. Thread count — the number of horizontal and vertical threads per square inch — was originally a useful quality indicator, but today it is heavily manipulated through marketing tactics. Manufacturers inflate thread count by using multi-ply yarns or counting each thin strand within a twisted thread separately, which can push numbers past 1000 without any real improvement in feel or durability.

What matters more is the quality of the fiber itself and the weave. A 300-thread-count sheet woven from long-staple Egyptian cotton or organic Supima cotton will outperform a 1000-thread-count sheet made from short-staple, low-grade cotton blended with polyester. Percale weaves typically range from 200–400 thread count, while sateen weaves range from 300–600.

ONDU recommends ignoring inflated thread-count claims and focusing on fiber origin, certification, and weave type to find sheets that genuinely feel luxurious and last.