What is so special about Egyptian Cotton?
Egyptian cotton bed linen has become wildly popular in recent years. After all, it was believed for a long time that cotton was cotton and it was actually the ‘thread count’ of the cotton fabric that was the only important factor when choosing quality bed linen. However, this is no longer the case as consumer guidelines for buying bedding suggest that cotton from Egypt is superior to other cotton. But why is this? And does Egyptian cotton really produce better quality bed linen? What difference does it make?
As a natural product, the quality of the cotton used to make the thread is paramount in creating high quality woven bed linen. This can be affected by growing conditions (weather, soil, temperature) and of course, the plant type. Egyptian-grown cotton is known for its ability to create extra long staples, or fibres. These fibres can produce thread or yarns that are thinner than other cottons because of their longer length. This yarn is smaller in diameter yet stronger than other cottons. Smaller yarn means that more threads per square inch of material can be used to create a more luxurious fabric which is stronger, lighter in weight, yet breathes well.
As already mentioned, many buyers think that choosing high thread count sheets is the only gauge of quality. This is not true, as in the case of Egyptian-grown cotton the threads in are longer, stronger and closer together. Furthermore, 100% Egyptian cotton fabrics resist pilling or “surface balling” after repeated washings, as the cotton plants used to make it don’t produce a lot of lint, unlike other cottons, or blended Egyptian cottons, which may pill. If properly cared for, bed linen produced from Egyptian cotton can last for decades.
Thread Count
Quality bed linen starts at around 180 threads per inch, with 300 thread count bed linen providing superior luxury. Bed linen made from 180 thread count fabric will be harder wearing and have a super crisp feel as the individual threads are thicker, whereas bed linen with a silky satin feel is provided by the thinner threads, such as those of the higher 300 thread count bed linen.
Choosing Your Perfect Bed Linen
Please bear in mind that the feel of bed linen created from Egyptian grown cotton is a bit harder than other cottons when the bedding is new. However, with every wash, Egyptian cotton duvet covers, sheets and pillowcases become softer and softer. Like a fine wine, Egyptian cotton bedding definitely improves with age and, unlike many products, you will prize it more and more with time and use.
So please consider whether you prefer hotel style crisp Egyptian cotton bed linen, or a softer more luxurious feel. Are looking for bed linen with a strong construction, able to withstand frequent washing, or perhaps short term luxury is more important? Comfort is all important in creating the perfect night’s sleep, and the right cotton bed linen is a vital part of this.
Please note: cheaper Egyptian cotton bed linen is likely to be made from a blend of fibres. Althought such bed linen may still be perfectly pleasant to use, you simply won’t get the full quality and feel for which Egyptian cotton duvet covers, sheets and pillowcases are known.
300 Thread Count Bed Linen
Our range of 300 thread count Egyptian blended long fibre cotton percale includes flat sheets, fitted sheets, Oxford and house-wife style pillowcases. Available in a variety of colours including white, vanilla and sand; these linens are a true investment.
4 Item(s)
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300 Thread Count Pillowcases White
300 Thread Count Egyptian Blended Cotton
Price: £16.00 -
300 Thread Count Flat Sheet White
300 Thread Count Egyptian Blended Cotton Percale
Price From: Price: £30.00 -
300 Thread Count Deep Fitted Sheet White
300 Thread Count Egyptian Blended Cotton Percale
Price From: Price: £25.00 -
300 Thread Count Bed Valance White
300 Thread Count Egyptian Blended Cotton
Price From: Price: £38.00
4 Item(s)
