The best thread count for sheets varies by the fiber type and weave, but you can typically find excellent sheets with thread counts between 200 and 800. Fabric characteristics differ according to fiber type. An Egyptian cotton sheet with a 600 thread count will be softer and have a lighter feel than a linen sheet with the same thread count, as linen fibers are naturally thicker than cotton. This means you don’t need as many of them within one square inch.While the best thread count is subjective, there are ranges by fiber type that you can refer to when buying sheets. These measurements are ty

Some high thread count sheets feel hot because they're made of densely-woven fabric. You can offset heat retention by choosing a fiber like Egyptian cotton or viscose from bamboo, which are both breathable and moisture-wicking. Percale sheets use a pattern of one thread over, one thread under that enhances airflow, while sateen sheets have a pattern of one-under and three- or four-over that traps a bit more heat.

High thread count sheets tend to be both comfortable and long-lasting, so they’re often worth the price if you want a sheet set with a long lifespan. That said, some companies manipulate thread counts by counting all the plies within a piece of fabric, which doesn’t accurately reflect softness and durability. Sheets made with single-ply threads are typically softer than those that use multiple plies. If a luxurious feel is important to you, check to see how a manufacturer calculates its thread count.