What does it mean when you buy a comforter and it says 200 or what ever # thread count?
Thread count depends on both the coarseness of the threads and the tightness of the weave. You always want a tight weave, but whether you want a coarse or a thin thread depends more on circumstances than on anything else. For cold temperatures (either naturally or through overzealous air conditioning), you want a 200 to 400 thread count sheet made from relatively coarse threads. This type of sheet will be thicker with just a little sheen. For warmer temperatures you want a 400 to 600 thread count sheet made from relatively fine threads. This type of sheet will be thinner with quite a bit of sheen, to the point that it might be verging on sateen. Anything more than 600 count is in my opinion unnecessary. A very high-count sheet will be made from fibres so thin that the structural integrity of the fabric (especially for sleeping on) comes into question. More important than thread, though, is content. Look for 100% cotton or a cotton-bamboo blend. Avoid polyester, both in your sheets and
