One of the most common complaints I hear when people are searching for bedding is that they don’t truly understand the jargon used to describe the available products. For many people, the prospect of shopping for new bedding is just as bleak as searching for a new lawyer because the terminology used to describe bedding products is so unique. Words like thread-count and loft are abstracts that only apply within specific industries and most people simply haven’t taken the time to learn what these terms mean and how they apply to their bedding purchases. With that said, let’s outline a few of the basic terms found in the bedding niche and how they apply to you.
Thread-count – The term thread-count refers to the number of threads found in one square inch of material. Lower thread-count materials are more pliable and soft but they are often less durable as well. High thread-count materials are more rigid and more durable but they may not offer the same degree of comfort as a lower thread-count material. In addition to durability, higher thread-count materials often reflect heat better than lower thread-count materials, making higher thread-count bedding a better choice for most shoppers.
Loft – Similar to the measure of thread-count for materials, loft in bedding refers to the fill materials quality. Higher loft numbers usually reflect a warmer, more comfortable bedding item while lower loft numbers may be more suitable for warmer climates. As a general rule, higher loft numbers also carry higher price tags so shopping for the climate where you live can save you money by eliminating the need for additional blanket purchases or preventing you from buying a comforter set that will be uncomfortably warm in your climate zone.
Comforters and Duvet Covers – Many shoppers just don’t understand the difference between a comforter and a duvet cover. A comforter is a warm, insulated top blanket for a bed. A duvet cover usually has a limited amount of insulation, if any, and is used to encase an old or expensive comforter for aesthetic purposes or to protect the comforter from damage.
While this is just a brief coverage of a few of the most common questions I receive on a regular basis, I hope that it can be of assistance to you in your search for the best bedding products for your home. Keep watching for further posts that will explain additional elements of the bedding shopping experience and provide insights into how you can save money on your bedding purchases.