Thread count measures the number of threads per square inch of fabric - a common quality metric for sheets, but NOT relevant for towels.
For Sheets
In bedding, thread count indicates: - Fabric density - Potential softness - Quality (to a point)
Higher thread count generally means finer, denser fabric.
Not for Towels
Towels are NOT measured by thread count because: - Terry construction is 3D (pile), not flat - GSM better measures towel density - Thread count doesn't apply to looped fabric
The Towel Equivalent: GSM
For towels, use GSM (grams per square metre): - Measures weight/density - Indicates thickness - Quality indicator
Common Confusion
Marketing sometimes mentions thread count for towels - ignore it. It's either: - Misapplied terminology - Marketing gimmick - Refers to ground cloth only (meaningless for pile)
What to Look For
When buying towels, check: - GSM (300-700+ range) - Material (cotton variety) - Construction (ring-spun, combed)
Ignore thread count entirely.