A Bit About Thread Count:
Thread count is the number of horizontal and vertical threads in one square inch of fabric. Thread count in sheets can vary from 80 to 700, but most stores sell sheets that range from 180 to 400, and anything above 300 being considered higher quality. In general, the higher the thread count the softer the fabric.
If your preference is a wrinkle free crisp cool sheet, then the Cotton blends like 180 or 220 thread count would be your choice. Poly/Cotton sheets are most effective and hold up well to washing.
For the cool, soft feel of fine quality bed sheets they should be 100% Cotton, 300 and above thread count. Cotton tends to wick away moisture keeping you comfortable not clammy. The softness you achieve with cotton is a luxury your skin will remember. Poly/Cotton blends may wear better with little or no ironing, but your skin will know the difference.
Flannel is 100% Cotton that by nature has a low thread count due to the type of fabric. A high thread count would eliminate part of the appeal of these sheets. Part of the cozy feel of Flannel comes from its low thread count because of the material it is made from.
A Bit About Sateen:
Often, you'll see fabrics with a "sateen weave" or "sateen finish" which gives one side of the fabric a different satin-like texture and luster. This is achieved through a special elaborate process at the mill, where the fabric is woven. First, the fabric is woven in such a way that the threads are twisted on the front side of the fabric. Then, the fabric is "calendered" or passed under a steam-roller-like apparatus that applies 2000 lbs of pressure per square inch. The weave of a Sateen is different enough to set it apart as its own fabric type. |