Single-Ply vs. Multi-Ply
What is single-ply and multiple-ply?
The marketed thread count of cotton fabric for bedding follows one key variable: ply.
Cotton fibres must be spun into a single thread -similar to braiding hair- to create a yarn that anyone can weave.
When working with a strong, soft, and long-lasting cotton fibre, such as ELS Egyptian cotton, the cotton fibre can be twisted around to create a single-ply. If a lower quality or weaker cotton fibre is used, the strands will get twisted together to form a single yarn strong enough to be woven, resulting in 2- or 3-ply cotton. For example, two-ply yarn comprises two single strands, whereas three-ply yarn is from three single strands.
Compared to bedding produced from 1-ply cotton, bedding produced from 2 or 3-ply cotton will be denser and heavier.
Generally, single-ply is less opaque and easier to see through. Double-ply is thicker and tends to look more luxurious or expensive, but can also be less breathable than sheets that are only single-ply.
