March 16, 2022
Sleep is unquestionably linked to our physical and mental health so it is no wonder we often find ourselves obsessing over how to get a better night’s rest. When researching how to build a bed that improves your quality of sleep, most discerning shoppers focus their efforts on finding the right pillows and mattresses. But so often we overlook the significant role our sheets play in how comfortably we sleep each night. Just recall your last stay at an upscale hotel, one of the highlights of your night may have been the instant relief of climbing between those cool, freshly pressed sheets.
Naturally when your bedding feels good, you can bet you’ll sleep better too. The thread count, material, and finish of your sheets determine how they will feel, and if that feel is ultimately right for you.
Thread Count
Often the first thing we look at when comparing sheets, a linen’s thread count refers to the number of threads in a square inch of fabric. A higher thread count usually drives longevity, softness, and fabric weight.
However, all thread counts are not considered equal, and a higher thread count is not always better! When evaluating thread count, it’s important to account for the quality of the yarn used. For example, Home Treasures’ Plush 1000 is a 1000 thread count, extra-long staple Egyptian cotton woven in Italy; it will last much longer and feel much softer and lighter than a 1000 thread count that you can buy from Amazon that uses a short staple cotton blend made in China.
Material Matters
Selecting the right fiber is also a key consideration when it comes to shopping for your bedding. For example, a cotton Percale or Italian linen can help warm sleepers stay cool, during hot summer months, while a brushed flannel or cotton Sateen will keep you warmer in winter months.
High quality cotton, such as Egyptian cotton, has long fibers and is typically the most luxurious bedding option due to its durability and ability to remain soft and smooth over time. Avoid low quality cotton with short fibers as it is more prone to pill and develop a coarse texture. And always steer clear of synthetic materials and polyester, as these fabrics tend to wear quickly and don’t breathe as easily.
Cotton
Percale
Commonly referred to as a plain weave, Percale is a type of cotton fabric that is tightly woven with a flat matte finish and a cool, crisp feel, similar to the feeling of a man's dress shirt. Think of Percale as your go-to fabric during warm weather seasons with ultra-breathability. Our most popular Percale fabrics are Perla and N⁰45 Classico.
Sateen
In contrast, Sateen is characterized by its smooth feel and lustrous appearance. As opposed to the regular over-and-under Percale weave, a Sateen is woven with one yarn under and three (or more) yarns over, thereby creating a silky surface. Sateen’s density makes it a great choice for sleeping during transition seasons. Some of our favorite Sateen collections are Royal Sateen, Princess, Villa and Plush 1000.
Linen
In contrast to cotton Percale and Sateen, Linen fabrics are woven from flax. They have a subtle texture and relaxed drape that touts a casual elegance. Linen’s breathability and moisture wicking qualities make it a perfect temperature regulator for warmer sleepers and an ideal choice for hot summer nights. As a sign of its durability, unwashed linen has a stiff feel but with washing and use over time the fabric gets softer and smoother. We love layering our crisp Provenza sheets with some of our decorative and contemporary linen jacquards, including Boheme, Zebra and Raja.
Modal
With the supremely soft feel of silk, and the easy care of cotton, Modal offers the best of many worlds. Made from the pulp of a beech tree, Modal offers a supremely soft and breathable feel. For those concerned with their beauty sleep, Modal is moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial and has a supremely silky surface that minimizes abrasion on your skin and hair. What’s even better, is that unlike silk, it’s fully machine washable! Our Athens Modal is available in solid, stripe and dots, in four classic colors, while our Atwood Modal has a heathered effect in three dreamy hues.
Flannel
Flannel sheets are made from a soft, brushed material, just like your favorite plaid flannel shirt. It sounds invitingly warm and cozy: perfect for the sweater weather months. However, when shopping for Flannel sheets, make sure they are made with 100% brushed cotton, as they are sometimes made from wool, polyester and other synthetic fiber blends. While many associate plaid patterns with Flannel, our Jackson collection has a more sophisticated palette, with neutral colors offered in a solid and herringbone pattern.
Home Treasures Bedding
While feel and durability are key to your comfort, the design and finish of your bedding shouldn’t take a backseat. We consider self-expression daily in our appearance, hobbies, and career choices. Your bedroom should be an extension of that personalization. With a myriad of choices, we provide you the opportunity to create a space you daydream to return to each day. If you’re interested in our Royal Sateen, we invite you to explore Cadence, Portofino and Ribbons, while if you lean towards Percale, shop Asher, Harper and Triad. And don’t forget, if you want to design something of your own, we’d be happy to customize something just for you and your preferences!