Understanding Thread Count, GSM, and Fabric Types in Bedding – A Buyer’s Guide for Quality Home Furnishings

When sourcing bedding for your retail or wholesale business, understanding fabric specifications is essential. Terms like thread count and GSM are more than just marketing buzzwords — they directly impact the comfort, durability, and appeal of your products.

In this guide, we break down thread count, GSM, and fabric types so you can make informed purchasing decisions when working with a bedding supplier or home furnishings exporter.

1. What is Thread Count in Bedding?

Thread count refers to the number of horizontal and vertical threads woven into one square inch of fabric.

General Rule:

• 200–400 TC – Good quality everyday bedding

• 400–600 TC – Premium, softer bedding

• 600+ TC – Luxury-grade bedding with a silky feel

However, higher thread count doesn’t always mean better quality — the yarn quality and weave type also matter.

Tip for Importers: Always request fabric swatches from your bedding exporter to feel the difference rather than relying solely on thread count numbers.

2. What is GSM in Bedding?

GSM stands for grams per square meter and measures fabric weight. This is especially important for quilts, duvet covers, and flannel sheets.

GSM Ranges for Bedding:

• 90–120 GSM – Lightweight summer bedding

• 120–170 GSM – All-season bedding

• 170+ GSM – Heavy, warm bedding for colder climates

Tip: If you export to multiple regions, choose bedding GSM according to the climate of your target market.

3. Common Bedding Fabric Types

Cotton

• Soft, breathable, and durable

• Ideal for all climates

• Variants: Egyptian cotton, organic cotton, Pima cotton

Polyester

• Affordable, wrinkle-resistant, and easy to maintain

• Often blended with cotton to balance comfort and cost

Silk

• Luxurious feel, naturally hypoallergenic

• Higher cost, requires delicate care

Linen

• Highly breathable and moisture-wicking

• Perfect for hot climates, premium market segment

Blended Fabrics (Cotton-Poly, Cotton-Bamboo)

• Combine durability with comfort

• Lower cost than 100% cotton or silk

4. Matching Specifications to Your Market

Different markets have different expectations:

• Europe & USA: Prefer higher thread count and natural fabrics

• Middle East: Demand for luxury finishes and decorative stitching

• Australia & Tropical Countries: Lightweight GSM and breathable fabrics

Working with a bedding supplier from India allows for customization in thread count, GSM, and fabric type to match your target audience’s needs.

5. Quality Assurance Before Bulk Orders

Before finalizing a bulk bedding order:

• Request fabric test reports for GSM and thread count verification

• Check colorfastness and shrinkage rates

• Review stitching quality and seam strength

Conclusion

Choosing the right bedding means understanding thread count, GSM, and fabric types. These specifications influence not only product comfort but also your sales potential in different markets.

At Grace Furnish, we supply premium bedding in customizable specifications for global buyers, ensuring the right balance of comfort, durability, and market appeal.

Contact us today to discuss your bedding requirements and receive tailored recommendations for your region.