However, I've also come to realize that not all sheets that call themselves 'luxury sheets' actually are! Here are 3 things to look for when you decide whether you should splurge.

Threads per inch (TPI)

This is how many threads (warp and weft) are packed into one inch of fabric. A higher thread count means a tighter fabric, and often a softer, more durable one. Luxury sheets start at 200 TPI, and range up to 1,000 TPI or even above.

Generally, really good sheets will have a higher number of threads per inch. But, not all high thread per inch fabrics are luxurious. A fabric with a high TPI can end up being very stiff if the threads used in the weave are not extra fine. While high TPI/coarser thread sheets would be very sturdy and long wearing, they may not have the softness you are looking for. To find out whether sheets will be soft, you also need to look at the type of cotton used.

Pima Cotton, Egyptian Cotton, or Supima Cotton?

There are differences in the humble cotton boll. Cotton with a longer staple will make a softer, finer thread. This translates into softer, more luxurious sheets. You can't drag a microscope along to the store to check fiber quality, though! You have to check the label. If the label just says cotton, you can assume that it is shorter staple cotton.

If the manufacturers are using a higher quality cotton, they will be proud of it and tell you! If the label says Pima Cotton, a longer staple Pima cotton was used. If only the higher quality Pima was used, it will say 100% Pima cotton.

Supima is a brand name of Pima cotton, and all sheets labeled Supima are guaranteed to be 100% superior American Pima.

Egyptian cotton is generally a wonderful, long staple cotton. However, any cotton from Egypt could call itself Egyptian cotton, even short staple! Some of the most amazing sheets ever are made out of Egyptian cotton, but you must be cautious. In looking at Egyptian cotton sheets, evaluate other clues to its quality as well. By all means, feel the sheets if you have the opportunity.

Percale, jacquard, sateen... huh?

The other factor to consider when you buy luxury sheets is the weave. This is actually very important in determining whether you will be happy with your purchase. If you are imagining your new sheets will be downy soft, but find them silky smooth, you might be disappointed! The sheets might be of a wonderful quality, just not what you are hoping for.

A percale is a traditional over one, under one weave (like those potholders you made out of loops when you were a kid). It is usually considered more crisp and and cool to sleep on. Sateen is a weave where the thread goes over several threads before going under one, resulting in a fabric with a soft touch and sheen. It is a bit less durable than percale.

Jacquard is where the weave is designed to leave a certain pattern (stripes, or leaves) in the fabric. The effect on the feel of the sheets is variable according to the particular Jacquard pattern, so take advantage of any opportunity to feel whether you like it.

Though usually not made as luxury sheets, flannel and jersey are common weaves making soft, homey fabrics. I love my flannel sheets in the winter! How you prefer your sheets to feel is entirely up to you. Weave is a personal choice.

If you aren't sure what type of weave you like, try out some luxury pillowcases with similar thread count and cotton content, but different weaves. When you settle on your favorite, you'll be ready to splurge on a whole sheet set or two.

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