The Mattress Warehouse: Thread Counts & Texture: What Really Makes Bed Sheets Feel Luxurious

You spend a third of your life in bed—yet most of us barely give a second thought to what we’re sleeping on. Beyond colour and cost, there’s one question that seems to trip up even the most stylish home decorators: What makes bed sheets and bedding truly luxurious?

We’ve all heard the phrase “high thread count” thrown around like a mark of prestige, but the truth is more nuanced. From weave types to cotton quality, understanding what goes into your bed linen can help you make smarter, more indulgent choices—without falling for overpriced hype.

Here’s your no-nonsense guide from The Mattress Warehouse, which will help you decode the jargon and find bed sheets that feel as good as they look. Be inspired this woman’s day with The Mattress Warehouse.

Thread Count: Not Always What It Seems

Thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads woven into one square inch of fabric. Generally, higher thread counts indicate smoother, more durable fabric—but only to a point. Anything over 310 to 400 threads per cm²? That’s usually a red flag for clever marketing rather than better quality.

A high thread count doesn’t guarantee softness or longevity. In fact, a 300-thread count sheet made from high-quality, long-staple cotton can outshine a 1200-thread count sheet made from cheaper fibres.

So, what’s the sweet spot? Look for thread counts between 200 and 600 for breathable, comfortable, long-wearing bed sheets.

The Cotton Factor: It’s All in the Fibre

The type of cotton matters just as much—if not more—than the thread count.

• Egyptian cotton is often praised for its softness and durability, thanks to extra-long staple fibres.

   

• Pima or Supima cotton is another high-quality choice with a smooth feel.

   

• Upland cotton, used in most mass-market bedding, has shorter fibres, which can pill and wear more quickly.

As a rule of thumb, look for 100% cotton with a clear fibre label—not a “blend” unless you want something more wrinkle-resistant but less breathable.

Weave: The Hidden Texture You Can’t Ignore

Even with the same thread count and cotton type, the weave dramatically changes how your bedding feels.

• Percale is crisp, cool, and breathable. It is ideal for hot sleepers or summer months. It has a matte finish and a fancy hotel-bed feel.

• Sateen: Smooth, silky, and slightly heavier. It drapes beautifully and feels indulgent, perfect for cooler months or anyone who loves a bit of sheen.

• Twill: Durable with a soft, diagonal weave—think denim but gentler. Twill bed sheets tend to resist wrinkles and drape well.

• Jersey: Technically a knit, not a weave. Think T-shirt material. Soft, stretchy, and casual, but they can trap heat and stretch over time.

Your pick should come down to personal preference: percale for a fresh, crisp feel; sateen for buttery softness.

What to Actually Look for When Shopping

The Mattress Warehouse recommends you look for these important markers:

• Fibre quality – Long-staple or extra-long-staple cotton

• Transparent labelling – 100% Egyptian or Supima cotton, not just “Egyptian cotton blend”

• Thread count in the sweet spot – Around 300–600

• Preferred weave – Percale or sateen, depending on feel

In the end, it’s not just about thread count—it’s about how your bedding makes you feel. The luxury is in the touch, the breathability, and the finish. Once you understand what’s behind the labels, you’ll know when to splurge and when to save. The Mattress Warehouse stocks a wide variety of mattresses and beds for sale, as well as an exclusive bedding range designed to fit all bed and mattress sizes. 

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