From Spa to Sleep:

Have you ever found yourself scrolling online, staring at bedding, asking yourself what the best thread count is? You’re not alone; many have fallen for the trap that higher is always better, but that’s not the full story.

Of course, it still matters, but there’s more to sweet dreams than bedding thread count: it’s the fabric, the finish, how it looks in your bedroom, and how inviting it is when bedtime comes around. When it comes to home trends, here’s everything you need to know about bedding.

If you’re trying to achieve that trend-led bedroom feel, there’s nothing that says luxury more than sinking into plush bedding that not only looks amazing but feels it. Higher thread counts aren’t just good marketing; they’re comfortable and smoother on the skin. But thread count isn’t where the comfort stops, you should also search for natural fibres — like linen and cotton — which breathe and improve with age.

Thread count (or TC) is the number of horizontal and vertical threads per square inch of fabric. Simplified, if 100 threads are going one way and 100 the other, this equates to your duvet, fitted sheet or pillowcase having a 200TC.

So, is bedding with a higher thread count better? Some brands are a little cheeky (not us) and use a multi-ply yarn, twisting fabrics together and counting them as an extra thread. That’s why you’ll find some 1200TC bedding that, in reality, feels closer to 400TC with single-ply quality.

100 - 250 thread count — Great air flow, lightweight, but not as durable. Great for guest rooms or kids' bedding.

300 - 500 thread count — Long-lasting, breathable and soft on skin. Your everyday family bedding; the favourite of homes around the UK.

600 - 1000+ thread count — Silky, luxurious, dense, but not as breathable. A higher thread count is winter’s best friend, or great for those who love a heavier sheet. Hot sleepers beware; a single-ply thread count this high is a recipe for a sweaty night.

The best beds use layers to create an inviting environment, changing patterns and textures to add personality and visual interest.

Start with quality sheets, add a lightweight blanket, then finish with a sumptuous duvet you’ll want to sink into every night. A variety of cushions in changing sizes adds some personality, but more importantly, comfort. Don’t feel as though you have to stick with one texture. Why not try pairing smooth cotton with sleek silks or nubby linen for a more sensory experience?

Layers don’t have to mean over the top; you can still have a minimalist feel and layer in a simpler way. Layering crisp whites with warm bedspreads and cushions is a great way to show off your style.

Finding the perfect bedding isn’t about chasing numbers; it’s discovering what feels right for you. Focus on fibre quality, weave, and breathability—you’ll sleep better and your sheets will last longer. Remember, you’re not just buying duvets, sheets, and pillowcases; you’re investing in a better night’s sleep. 

When choosing the perfect towel for you, there are a few things to consider. Thickness, absorbency, colour, material, and GSM are just some of the terms you may come across. While you’re probably well aware of most, you might be wondering, ‘What on earth is GSM?’. The good news is, you’re not alone.

Cotton is synonymous with having a sumptuous feel and exceptional quality, and is widely considered one of the softest and most luxurious materials available for towels. The long fibres offer maximum absorbency, softness, and durability, which is why cotton is always the preferred choice for a luxurious feel.

Compared to other materials available, cotton fibres are much longer in length, enhancing the feel and smoothness, which over time will also become softer with use. The longer fibres deliver a plush and velvety texture against skin, the type of feel you would expect in any high-end spa.

Another of the top reasons cotton is so revered is its absorbency. The long fibres draw water away from the body, naturally wicking moisture away from the skin. Cotton is also extremely durable, meaning cotton towels (if cared for properly) can retain their quality and last for years to come.

GSM stands for grams-per-square-metre, and put plainly, this is how the weight of a towel is measured. Most bath towels range from 300 to 900 GSM, with 300 on the lower end and 900 on the higher end. Looking at the GSM is a good indicator of a towel’s quality.

Typically, you’ll find towels with a lower GSM are light and thin, while towels with a higher GSM tend to be softer, thicker, and more absorbent. Premium towels with a more luxurious feel, like our Pima Bath Towels, boast a high 650GSM. Made from pure cotton, these towels are super absorbent and very durable. They are also machine washable, making them easy to care for. You can find these towels in varying colours and styles, such as face cloths, hand towels, bath towels and bath sheets.

300 - 400 GSM — Lightweight, thinner and more coarse; your typical kitchen towel is a good example of a low GSM.

400 - 600 GSM — Soft and absorbent, these towels are a medium weight; great as an everyday bath or beach towel.

600 - 900 GSM — Soft, very absorbent, with a luxurious feel (and usually come with a luxurious price), these towels have a high GSM and are found at hotels and spas—or perhaps you have that ‘spa-feeling’ at home.

Just because your towel has a lower GSM, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s bad quality. It simply means it’s not as absorbent. One of the main benefits of opting for a lower GSM is quicker drying times, as naturally they’re both lighter and thinner. Your pockets will be thankful too, as a towel with a lower GSM is usually cheaper.

On the other hand, you might have to replace low GSM towels more frequently, as they can wear out more quickly and fray over time, meaning they might not last long if you wash and dry them frequently. Your best method is to include a couple of mid to high-GSM towels in your rotation, as they will grow softer and more absorbent over time.

Fabrics also play a big part in the quality of your towel, with some featuring a blend of lightweight, quick-dry fabrics and innovative technology to maximise performance.

There are lots to consider when choosing the best bath towels for your needs. From material, weight, colour, and buying options, it can be a little overwhelming to know exactly where to start. Let's break down the key factors you should consider when selecting your perfect bath towel.

First things first, what types of towels are available? The most common types you’ll find in homes up and down the country are hand towels, bath towels, bath sheets, face cloths and jumbo towels.

A standard bath towel will usually measure 70 x 140 cm, while hand towels are much smaller at 50 x 90 cm. Bath sheets are some of the largest towels available at around 100 x 150 cm. Face cloths and jumbo towels are available in a variety of sizes, typically smaller than your average bath towel.

Consider your needs before making a towel purchase, as you may find that you need a variety of towel types.

The usual place you’re going to find difficulties is choosing between a bath towel and a bath sheet. Bath sheets are larger, so they offer more coverage, great for those who like wrapping their towel around their body. This being said, bath towels are usually much more affordable compared to bath sheets (and they take up much less storage space)

So, if you’re on a budget or you have limited storage space, bath towels could be the perfect choice. Plus, being a smaller size, bath towels are much easier to wash and dry.

For a home to feel truly comfortable, it relies on the little details that you feel each day. From the sheets you slip into at night to the towel you reach for after a shower, the right cotton essentials can make a surprising difference to how your home feels.

By choosing quality fabrics that breathe, or investing in plush towels for that spa-like feeling, you can enjoy soft furnishings that not only look stunning but feel great while also standing the test of time. For luxurious designs at a price you’ll love, see our extensive selection of towels and bedding here at Cotton Traders.

You’ll always find thoughtfully designed bedding and towels from our Home Trends Collection: a curated combination of comfort, durability and timeless style. So why not give your home the deserved upgrade it needs?