Soft but affordable sheets--what thread count?

We need to get new sheets for our queen size bed, but we don't have a ton of money to spend. What's the lowest thread count you can get and still have soft sheets? I made the mistake of buying cheaper sheets from Target, and they felt like sandpaper. Is 400 still pretty soft? We got a nice set of 440 thread count sheets for Christmas. Unfortunately, there are two small rips at the top, which I didn't notice until after I washed them. And where are the best places to get quality sheets for lower prices? Thanks!

?2012-01-06T14:04:33Z

Favorite Answer

How about trying some Bamboo sheets~they are amazingly soft!

http://www.myfavoritebedding.com/store-products-SL100-bamboo-cotton-sheets-100-Bamboo-cotton-Sheet-Sets_1097664320.html