sleep on it

I received the premier issue of BlissLiving Home's newsletter today.  Fun reading for us bedding junkies, but *finally* someone has explained in plain English the deal with thread count.  

THREAD COUNT REVEALED The most important thing to understand about thread count is higher numbers do not mean better quality. In fact, there is an argument to be made that a lower thread count may be a more comfortable sheet. Let me explain. First, you have to understand thread count. The right way to calculate this involves adding up all of the vertical and horizontal threads (warp and weft) in a square inch of fabric. There are only so many threads you can realistically fit into a square inch and generally speaking, anything over 300 is more perceived value than real value. Many companies exaggerate the number by counting the number of ply's in a yarn, so a 300 count sheet using a 2 ply yarn may be promoted as a 600 count. The key element most people don't think about when purchasing sheets is how they sleep. Everyone perspires while sleeping, so ideally you would want a sheet that is breathable and absorbent, as well as being soft and comfortable. Higher thread counts mean a tighter weave and consequently a sheet that does not breathe as well, or a hotter sleep. If you live in a warm climate already, sleeping with a higher thread count may just make your nights even warmer. Selecting a good quality sheet involves looking for a brand that uses 100% cotton.  Cotton is still one of the best fabrics when it comes to comfort, durability and care. In August 2005, Consumer Reports issued a report about high thread count sheets from nationally known brands and concluded; "Two hundred is typical and perfectly fine; 400 may provide a finer, softer sheet. Above 400, the only difference is likely to be price."  Speaking from my own experience, BlissLiving makes a fabulous sheet set. Why yes, you can order them here. ;)