However, thread count greatly affects heat and higher thread counts create hotter sheets. In fact, 1000TC sheets are the hottest cotton sheets you can buy. Conversely, lower thread counts (250TC-350TC 10cm2) create cooler sheets but must be made from good cotton so they last.
That's because the less dense weave allows for more airflow. Of course, you don't want to choose a sheet with such a low thread count that it feels rough or falls apart. A sheet in the 250–300 thread count range could be an ideal fit for hot sleepers.
High Thread Count For Bed Sheets
1000 TC sheets are the warmest cotton sheets available on the market. Lower thread counts (250 TC-350 TC), on the other hand, provide cooler sheets but they must be made of high-quality cotton to retain a premium standard.
For example, 1,000-thread-count sheets tend to feel heavy and warm because the excess threads can make the fabric less breathable. A sheet that doesn't breathe can trap air and create a hot microclimate underneath the covers. You may end up feeling too hot, which can disrupt your sleep.
Buying a set of bed sheets with a high thread count may not be the best idea when it comes to breathability, because more threads result in a tighter weave and less airy construction. If keeping cool is your priority, look for low thread count sheets in the range of 180 to 280.
Here's what we look for in the very best sheets (hint: 1,500 thread count sheets definitely don't make our list): An honest thread-count with single ply yarns. For soft, cool sheets that hold up for years, 180-280 thread count is a perfect range.
Several of the sleep experts I spoke to suggested linen sheets. According to Dr. Joshua Tal, a psychologist who specializes in sleep disorders, they are very breathable and “pick up cool air.” Oks says that since linen is made of a looser weave than, say, a cotton sheet with a high thread count, it traps less heat.
For people who get hot during sleep, choosing sheets made of bamboo, cotton, or linen — breathable fabrics that wick away moisture from the body and help maintain a comfortable temperature — can help.
Materials. Some materials are more breathable than others. Fleece and polyester, for instance, are known to trap heat next to the body for a warmer night's sleep. However, a material can be breathable but not moisture-wicking, leaving you humid and hot.
The higher the thread count, the finer and more luxurious the fabric will feel. Cotton percale sheets found in hotels usually have a thread count between 250 and 600, while cotton sateen sheets will usually have a thread count between 300 and 600.
Sheets with a thread count between 600-800 are considered very high quality. A 1500 thread count is through the roof. If you're suspicious about a set of 1500 thread-count sheets for $22 dollars, you're right to be.
What's the best thread count for sheets? In our tests, top-rated bed sheets often have thread counts between 300 and 500. Anything above 500 isn't necessarily better (so don't be deceived when you see thread counts over 1,500), and on the flip side, you can still find quality sheets with thread counts under 300.
There isn't really a best thread count for sheets. Depending on budget, aim for a thread count between 400 and 1,000. The highest thread count you should look for is 1,000. Anything above that number is unnecessary and often lower quality.
Don't choose high thread counts.
However, thread count greatly affects heat and higher thread counts create hotter sheets. In fact, 1000TC sheets are the hottest cotton sheets you can buy. Conversely, lower thread counts (250TC-350TC 10cm2) create cooler sheets but must be made from good cotton so they last.
Woven cotton or linen nightwear is ideal. Silk is especially good at helping you stay cool at night. Avoid nightwear made with synthetic fabrics – check the label if you're unsure. Cool down with a shower.
For hotter nights, however, the best thread count for summer sheeting does tend to be the lighter end of the scale — the 300 and 400 thread counts. It allows for air to pass through the weave, helping you stay cool while sleeping.
The reason is that some types of mattresses retain a lot of heat, which causes users to have night sweats and restless, sleepless nights. But factors like bedding, room temperature, and individual metabolisms also contribute to making one sleep hot. For example, a hot room is likely to make one sweaty at night.
Your Mattress Is Absorbing Body Heat
Some mattress materials — particularly certain types of foams — don't have great airflow, and therefore absorb and trap body heat. The result? A sweaty, uncomfortable night with very little sleep.
Some bed sheets may cause a person to overheat if the fabric is non-breathable and heavy. Some synthetic materials may not suit someone experiencing night sweats, along with satin and some cotton blends, as they can retain heat quite effectively.
Most people should wash their sheets once per week. If you don't sleep on your mattress every day, you may be able to stretch this to once every two weeks or so.
There are a few different types of sheets that may be considered “cooling.” Some are simply made with breathable fabrics, such as eucalyptus sheets or cotton percale sheets. Others have moisture-wicking properties.
Luxury sheets have no limits on thread count or price. Generally, the more you pay, the better sheets you get. Most hotels use sheets with a thread count of 250 while high-end hotels use sheets with a 300 thread count. Some luxury hotels even use sheets of 600 or 800 thread counts, but it varies from hotel to hotel.