As the term suggests, ‘thread count’ is the number of threads woven into the bedsheet on a per square inch basis. The threads are counted as per horizontal and vertical weave. The higher the thread count, the softer the bed sheet. A higher thread count also ensures that the bed sheet is a long-wearing one, since it becomes softer over multiple washes instead of becoming frayed.
Normally, bedsheets using Egyptian cotton have a high thread count and are extremely comfortable to sleep on. Not only does the sheet feature a higher thread density, but the cotton used is among the softest and most durable. The yarn used is normally a soft ply one.
When buying a bed sheet online, inquire about the thread count: the best ones feature thread counts ranging from 500 to 800. Some premium luxury brands have sheets with thread count exceeding 1,000. Some brands price their bed linen based on the thread count of their products.