Cotton Percale Sheets Explained: Percale vs Sateen and How to Choose
Are you overwhelmed by the options when shopping for sheets? You’re not alone.
Cotton sheets often come down to two favourites: percale and sateen. They both have that classic cotton appeal, but they feel different.
So, how do you choose? We’re here to help. It’s all about understanding how they’re woven and how that changes the feel, breathability, and look.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about percale and sateen:
What is cotton percale?
What is cotton sateen?
Percale vs sateen
Which cotton percale sheets are the best?
Care tips for your cotton sheets
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for. Let’s get started.
How does weave make a difference?
The way cotton is woven makes a big difference. It’s not just about thread count or colour. Consider how the fabric feels, how it performs, and how it lasts.
Percale and sateen are two of the most popular cotton weaves for sheets. The difference is in how they’re woven:
- Percale is woven in a one-over, one-under pattern. This makes it crisp, breathable, and durable.
- Sateen is woven in a three-over, one-under pattern with more threads on the surface. It creates a soft, smooth and slightly shiny fabric.
Both are 100% cotton, but they feel different. And when you know what to look for, you can choose the one that suits you best.
What is cotton percale?
Cotton is a solid choice for hot sleepers because it’s naturally breathable, especially if you go for a percale weave. Percale is a type of weave that uses a tight, one-over-one pattern, giving the fabric a light and crisp feel. This weave allows air to circulate easily – keeping you cooler throughout the night.
Some of our best cotton sheets for hot sleepers are our Leo washed cotton sheets. They’re soft, breathable, and designed with deep sides, so they fit snugly without slipping off.
Percale vs sateen
The choice between cotton percale and sateen depends on what you want in your bed. Here’s how they stack up.
Feel
Percale is crisp and cool, like fresh air on your skin. Sateen is smooth and warm, like a cosy hug.
Breathability
Percale is better for hot sleepers or summer nights. Sateen holds warmth, making it ideal for cooler weather.
Aesthetic
Percale has a matte, casual look. Sateen has a soft sheen that feels a little more elegant.
Durability
Both are durable, but percale is more resistant to pilling and wear over time.
Care
Percale is low-maintenance. Sateen needs a bit more care to keep it looking its best.
When to choose percale or sateen
Choose percale if you:
- Love the feeling of crisp, lightweight sheets.
- Are a hot sleeper or live in a warm climate.
- Prefer bedding with a relaxed, casual look.
Choose sateen if you:
- Want something soft, smooth, and silky.
- Get cold at night and need a bit of extra warmth.
- Enjoy a touch of elegance in your bedroom.
Think about how you like your bed to feel. Do you want cool and breezy, or warm and cosy? The answer will tell you which weave is right for you.
How to choose high-quality cotton sheets
You might be wondering which percale or sateen sheets are the best. It’s a great question to ask – not all cotton sheets are created equal. Here’s how to make sure you’re buying the best.
1. Check the fibre quality
Look for long-staple cotton. These fibres are stronger, smoother and less likely to pill.
2. Don’t obsess over thread count
A thread count between 200 and 400 is ideal for both percale and sateen. Anything higher might mean thinner threads, which don’t always make for better sheets.
3. Look for certifications
Certifications like OEKO-TEX and GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) ensure your sheets are free from harmful chemicals and made sustainably.
4. Feel the fabric
If you can, touch the sheets before you buy. Percale should feel crisp and light, while sateen should feel soft and smooth.
5. Pay attention to finishes
Avoid sheets with synthetic finishes like wrinkle-free coatings. These can make the fabric less breathable and shorten its lifespan.
How to choose high-quality cotton sheets
You might be wondering which percale or sateen sheets are the best. It’s a great question to ask – not all cotton sheets are created equal. Here’s how to make sure you’re buying the best.
1. Check the fibre quality
Look for long-staple cotton. These fibres are stronger, smoother and less likely to pill.
2. Don’t obsess over thread count
A thread count between 200 and 400 is ideal for both percale and sateen. Anything higher might mean thinner threads, which don’t always make for better sheets.
3. Look for certifications
Certifications like OEKO-TEX and GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) ensure your sheets are free from harmful chemicals and made sustainably.
4. Feel the fabric
If you can, touch the sheets before you buy. Percale should feel crisp and light, while sateen should feel soft and smooth.
5. Pay attention to finishes
Avoid sheets with synthetic finishes like wrinkle-free coatings. These can make the fabric less breathable and shorten its lifespan.
Caring for your sheets
Good sheets deserve good care. Here’s how to keep them in top condition.
- Washing: Use a mild detergent and wash in cold water. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners – they can break down the fibres.
- Drying: Line drying is ideal, but if you use a dryer, stick to low heat to prevent shrinkage.
- Storage: Fold your sheets neatly and store them in a cool, dry place. This keeps them fresh and ready to use.
You will need to be a little more careful with sateen sheets. They’re more delicate than percale, so use gentle cycles and low heat.
Final word on cotton percale
Your sheets are more than just fabric. They set the stage for a good night’s sleep.
Whether you choose percale or sateen, the right choice is the one that makes you excited to climb into bed every night. Invest in quality cotton sheets if you can, and make your bed the most inviting place in your home.
