FAQs
FAQs
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Polycotton?
Polycotton is used to describe a polyester-cotton fabric blend which is made by combining both polyester and cotton fibres in varying proportions. It is a popular textile choice in the bedding industry due to its desirable characteristics and properties. Our specific ratio of polyester to cotton is 50/50 in Whiteheads polycotton bedlinen.
The combination of polyester and cotton brings together the strengths of both fibres. Polyester is strong so it’s durable to wear and tear and it is less prone to wrinkling than cotton. Cotton is natural so is soft and breathable making it very comfortable and absorbent.
It is a versatile fabric choice and cheaper than pure cotton.
What is 100% Cotton?
100% Cotton is a fabric made entirely from pure natural cotton fibres. Cotton is plant-based and is from the fluffy seed fibres of the cotton plant. It is one of the most widely used and versatile natural fibres in the bedlinen industry.
Pure cotton has some great characteristics and properties;
- It is natural as it’s from a plant so it’s biodegradable.
- It has a soft and comfortable feel against the skin so is a popular choice for bedding.
- It is breathable and allows air to circulate which keeps the body cool and comfortable especially in warm weather.
- The cotton fibre is able to absorb moisture giving a comfortable sleep.
- It is generally hypoallergenic and less likely to cause skin irritation.
- While it is not as strong as some synthetic fibres, it is reasonably strong and can last well with proper care.
What is Percale?
Percale is a type of weave commonly used in bed linen. It refers to a specific weaving technique in which the threads are woven in a one-over-one-under pattern. This results in a tight, crisp and smooth fabric with a matte finish.
Percale sheets are known for their durability, breathability and cool, comfortable feel against the skin. They are often preferred in warmer climate or during the summer months because of their lightweight and breathable nature. Additionally, percale sheets tend to get softer with each wash while maintaining their strength and durability.
Percale fabrics are typically made from cotton, but they can also be made from blends of cotton with other fibres such as polyester. The quality and feel of percale can vary depending on factors like the thread count and the quality of the cotton used.
What is Sateen?
Sateen is another type of weave commonly used in the production of bed linen, similar to percale. However it has distinct characteristics that set it apart:
Weave pattern: Sateen is woven in a way that has more threads on the surface of the fabric, creating a smooth, lustrous surface with a silky sheen. This is achieved through a four-over-one-under (4/1) weaving pattern, where four threads float over one thread. In contrast, percale uses a one-over-one-under (1/1) pattern, resulting in a matte finish.
Texture: Sateen sheets have a softer, silkier texture compared to percale sheets. They often feel smoother and more luxurious to the touch due to the surface threads that give them a subtle sheen.
Warmth and Weight: Sateen sheets tend to be heavier and may provide a bit more warmth compared to percale sheets. This makes them a popular choice for colder seasons or individuals who prefer a slightly armer feel in their bedding.
Durability: While sateen sheets are known for their luxurious feel and appearance, they may not be as durable as percale sheets. The weaving pattern with more exposed threads can make them more prone to snagging or pilling.
Breathability: Sateen sheets are less breathable than percale sheets due to their denser weave, which can trap more heat. This makes percale a better choice for hot or humid climates.
Sateen sheets are often made from cotton, particularly long-staple cotton varieties, but they can also be made from synthetic materials or blends. The choice between sateen and percale comes down to personal preference in terms of texture, sheen, and the level of warmth and breathability you desire in your bedding.
What is Thread Count?
Thread count is a term used to describe the number of threads woven together in a square inch of fabric. It is commonly used as a measure of the quality and density of fabrics, particularly bed linens like sheets and pillowcases. Thread count is typically represented as two numbers, with one indicating the number of horizontal threads (warp threads) and the other indicating the number of vertical threads (weft threads) in a square inch of fabric.
For example, if a sheet has a thread count of 300, it means there are 150 warp threads and 150 weft threads woven together in each squire inch of the fabric. The total thread count is calculated by adding these two numbers together.
Key points:
Higher Thread Count: In general, a higher thread count is often associated with a smoother, softer and more luxurious feel. This is because a higher thread count usually means more threads are packed into the fabric, resulting in a finer weave.
Perceived Quality: Many people associate a higher thread count with better quality, but this isn’t always the case. While thread count can be an indicator of quality, it’s not the only factor to consider. Other factors, such as type of cotton used and the weaving technique, also play a significant role in determining the quality of the bed linens.
Diminishing Returns: There is a point of diminishing returns when it comes to thread count. Extremely high thread counts (e.g. 1000 or more) may not necessarily result in significantly better sheets. Other factors like the type of cotton and the finishing process become more important at these higher counts.
Comfort and Preference: The ideal thread count for sheets can vary from person to person. Some individuals prefer the crisp feel of lower thread count sheets (around 200-400), while others prefer the softness of higher thread count sheets (around 400-800). Personal comfort and preference are essential factors in choosing bed linens.
Durability: Very high thread counts can make sheets more delicate and prone to wear and tear. Lower thread count sheets can be more durable in some cases.
When shopping for bed linens, it’s important to consider thread count along with other factors like the type of fibre (e.g. polyester or cotton), weave (e.g. percale, sateen) and finishing processes to choose bed linen that suits your comfort and quality preferences.
What are Extra Length and Extra Depth?
Extra Length and Extra Depth sheets refer to bedding that is designed to fit mattresses that are larger than the standard sizes. These specialised sheets are often used for oversized or non-standard mattresses to ensure a proper and secure fit.
Extra Length: Extra length sheets are designed to fit mattresses that are longer than the standard mattress sizes. Standard mattress sizes include single, three quarter, double, queen and king, each with its own length and width dimensions. Extra length sheets are typically needed for mattresses that exceed the standard length measurement.
Extra Depth: Extra depth sheets are often used for pillow-top mattresses, memory foam mattresses, adjustable beds and mattresses with additional toppers and pads. These types of mattresses can significantly exceed the standard depth measurements.
When shopping for extra length and extra depth sheets, it’s important to check the specific measurements of your mattress and compare them to the dimensions provided on our website. Make sure the sheets you choose are designed to fit your mattress’s unique size and depth to ensure a snug and secure fit.
What is an Oxford style?
Oxford style bed linen refers to a particular type of pillowcase or duvet cover design characterised by a decorative border or ‘flange’ that surrounds the perimeter of the item creating a flap. This border is typically a wide strip (Whiteheads Oxford border is approximately 5cm wide) that extends beyond the main body of the pillowcase or duvet cover, creating a visually appealing and slightly formal look.
Oxford style bedding is often chosen for its aesthetic appeal and the extra touch of style it adds to the bed’s overall presentation.
What is Oxford Satin?
Oxford Satin stitch or style refers to the same Oxford border style above however instead of a flat, straight stitch, the stitching used to create the border is a tight zigzag stitch. A satin stitch is a type of decorative embroidery stitch known for its smooth, shiny and solid appearance. This stitch line between the body of the item and it’s flap, creates an approximately 5mm wide stitch line which looks very elegant and stylish.