Thread count, breathability & more: Here's how to choose the right bed linen
Don't let the intricate designs and endless colour options lead to a wrong purchase.
By ET CONTRIBUTORS | Updated:
By Ashwini Vaidya Gupte
Intricate designs, endless colour options and a promise of superior softness! Markets are flooded with all kind of promotions and literature on bed linen, making it all the more difficult to make the right choice.
While there is no scientific formula to help you make a foolproof purchase, there are few things that you should keep in mind while buying one of the most essential pieces of home furnishing- bed linen, the purchase that will determine the quality of sleep.
Thread count or GSM Thread count is extermely important when it comes to choosing bed linen. It refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads per square inch. Therefore, the higher the thread count, the better wear-tear and softer the sheet.
While a high thread count is an important factor, the cotton type used is more significant. This does not mean that low thread count sheets are low quality. Many 200 thread count or less sheets are finished well and give the feel of a better thread count and can do just as well.
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Another term to be familiar with is GSM. The grams per square meter measurement stands for the weight of the fabric woven into per meter of your quilts. A higher GSM indicates a plusher, more comfortable quilt.
Breathability Most bed linen is either printed or dyed. This makes it important to check whether the process used is chemical-free and determine if the bed linen is good for your skin.
The material and weave of the fabric also determines how breathable it is i.e. whether it will remain cool or heat-up against your skin.
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(Image: Thinkstock)
Right Size: If you have ever had to wrestle with your sheets while making your bed, you will know the importance of getting the sizing right. King size is the largest option as per the international standards and is measured at 72'' X 80'', while the Queen size is 60'' X 78''.
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Apart from knowing the size of your bed size, you also need to know the mattress depth, to get perfectly fitted, flat sheets.
Wash Care: Choosing easy-to-wash linen doesn't mean that it isn't going to require any care while washing. Some points to keep in mind are:
-Don't pre-wash a sheet with a fabric softener. This will just weaken the fibers, linen tends to naturally soften with frequent washing.
- Make sure you have three to four sets of bed linens, which you can use rotationally. It allows one set enough room to rest from use. Also, wash matching linens together to maintain colour consistency.
- Do not use detergents containing bleach, as it can damage the quality.
* The author is the Head of Design, Domestic business at Welspun India Ltd
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are that of the writer. The facts and opinions expressed here do not reflect the views of www.economictimes.com.)
Colours, Lanterns, Florals: Summer Decor Done Right
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Colour can make a world of difference to the tone and mood of your room. Whether you want to opt for airy, light shades or go for bold pops in corners, a room gets a whole new life with just the addition of some colour.
So this summer make your home stand out with your favourite colour palette.
And we got Chanda Narang, CEO, Frazer and Haws, to list some summer essentials that will give a vibrant touch to your pad.
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Summer nights are for romance, and candle lights with fragrant oils are a must.
Add soft ambient lighting to add romance to any space. Wrap delicate strings of mini lights around a scrollwork headboard, or hang a diya-lamp to go traditional.
Decorative lanterns, too, are a great way to add a dramatic glow to any room.
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Take a cue from nature to complement the season.
Bring in the flowers, and use rustic, natural materials in your home.
Use single stems of big blooms, like hydrangea, and build about it with pretty boxes and coasters.
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Line up a series of mystic symbols with inherent movement, like dream-catchers or wind-chimes to add newness to a room.
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