What Thread Count Really Means?
Thread count is one of the most talked-about terms in bedding, but not always the easiest to understand. Here, we’re answering some of the most commonly asked questions about what it really means and which thread count is best for you.
What is thread count?
Thread count refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric, counting both the horizontal and vertical threads. In principle, the higher the thread count, the more tightly woven the fabric and the softer and more durable the linen.
Does a higher number always mean better quality?
Not quite – and this is where it gets interesting. Thread count is less about quality and more about feel. A lower thread count in a percale weave produces a lighter, crisper fabric – cool against the skin and ideal for warmer sleepers or the spring and summer months. A higher thread count sateen sits with greater weight and warmth, making it the natural choice for cooler evenings and winter months. Both represent exceptional quality – the difference lies in what you're looking for from your sleep experience.
The Peter Reed standard
At Peter Reed, thread count is just one part of the story. The quality of our Italian-sourced materials, the weave, the weight and the craft applied at Butterworth Mill all contribute equally to the linen you feel against your skin. A number tells you something. The feel tells you everything.
What should I look for?
For refined everyday luxury, our thread counts of between 210 and 400 in a single-ply percale or sateen weave offer an exceptional balance of breathability, softness and durability – linens that feel as good on the first night as they do years later. For those seeking something truly exceptional, our collections extend to 1,000 thread count – resulting in linens of extraordinary softness, weight and depth. Linens that, once slept in, become rather difficult to forget.
