More than Just a Number; the Perfect Threadcount for Your STR Linens
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Time to read 3 min
Whether it be in store or online, the process of looking for the perfect STR Linens can be daunting. So, when making a choice about sheets, most consumers end up looking at one thing to make their decision; thread count. In the sheet world, thread count is the magic number we have been conditioned to pay attention to. A high thread count beckons us like a beacon of quality. It is a tangible number, especially when we can’t feel or see the product in person, that becomes our supposed compass of comfort and quality. But what many sheet shoppers find out the hard way is that thread count, like a filtered face on Instagram, may not be a true and comprehensive representation of the product that shows up at their door. As a STR host, linens are a big investment- especially when buying for multiple beds and multiple properties.
Let’s break down the inner-workings of thread count
More than just a number?
The thread count is the number of threads used in the weave (the horizontal and vertical threads woven together) of one square inch of fabric. So for example, a weave with 100 horizontal threads and 100 vertical threads would have a thread count of 200. In theory, a higher thread count should result in a stronger and softer feeling fabric, but this is where things get a bit complicated.
Quality over Quantity
First of all, not all threads are created equally. For example, since man made fabrics like polyester are just that- manufactured, the threads can be fabricated to be much thinner than those that are naturally occurring like cotton or linen. Because of their thicker and longer threads, in most cases, a 200 thread count cotton sheet will be more durable and have a softer feel than its synthetic fiber counterpart.
Another trick of the trade practiced by some “sheety” manufacturers is to inflate the thread count of their product by counting the plies within a single thread rather than the thread itself. Plies are the thin fibers that are twisted together to make a single thread. So a thread that consists of four twisted strands could be counted by some manufacturers as 4 separate threads- thus quadrupling their thread count without really adding any additional product or benefit. While this practice is looked down upon within the textile industry, and in the past has landed some big sheet producers in hot water with the US Federal Trade Commission, it can and still does occur.
Shady sheets aside, high quality cotton sheets that have exceedingly high thread counts do exist, but they aren’t really ideal for short term rental properties. First and foremost is the expense. A sheet with a true thread count of over 500 would have a price tag to match. Given that linens used in AIRBNB’s are replaced more often than those used domestically, this price tag is not only unrealistic, but unsustainable. In addition, linens with a higher thread count also produce a heavier fabric with decreased breathability. While this could be good in a colder climate, sheets with an exceedingly high thread aren’t as versatile. In addition, sheets with a high thread count take longer to dry which can slow down turn around times and increase costs if you utilize a laundry service for your linens. For busy STR rentals, long staple cotton sheets with a thread count between 200-400 will achieve the best of both worlds; a breathable and versatile fabric that also features durability and a luxurious feel.
The Process and the Product
To avoid being hoodwinked when buying sheets in store or online, stick with natural fibers with high quality threads. For cotton, longer fibers are the key to quality. Quality cotton fibers go through processes such as carding and combing where smaller fibers are separated and removed from the longer ones. The remaining cotton fibers, referred to as long staple cotton, are not only longer but also stronger and more durable- thus creating a more durable weave, fabric, and eventually sheet that frays and pills less.
The Bottom Line?
Don’t get caught in a web of lies spun with inferior threads. Look for these characteristics in your next sheet purchase:
100% natural long staple fibers like cotton or linen
Quality weaves like sateen or parcale
Thread counts between 200-400- the sweet spot for linens used in hotels and short term rentals.
Want to learn more about FIX Linens' high quality linens and how we can make your hosting life easier? Visit us at fixlinens.com.
Written by: Cary Ballard - Freelance Writer for FIX Linens