We Know: How to Buy SheetsAbout Buying SheetsIn most cases, sheets are sold as a set that includes one fitted sheet for the mattress, a top sheet, and two pillowcases. There are sheets for standard box spring mattresses and sheets designed especially for waterbeds, European sized or other specialty beds. Depending on the quality and manufacturer, sheet sets can cost anywhere from less than $100 to many hundreds of dollars. On average, a set of full/queen cotton sheets costs less than $100. What's the importance of the thread count?The thread count is the primary method of gauging a sheet's softness. It refers to how many threads are contained within a square inch. The higher the thread count, the softer and more comfortable the sheet. Good sheets begin with a thread count of 200. Extremely high quality sheets can have a thread count of 1,200 or higher. What's the importance of the weave?The weave is the method of stitching and can affect the softness of sheets. In addition to a standard weave of one stitch over and one stitch under, there is also a pinpoint and a sateen weave. Pinpoint lasts longer than a regular weave but isn't as comfortable as sateen. Sateen is the softest but doesn't last as long as the other two types of weave. Grades of Cotton MaterialThere are three main types of cotton used for sheets:
Additional Types of MaterialAs an alternative to cotton sheets, you also have the following options:
Sheet SizesThere are the main standard sizes for sheets:
|
||||||
|