Percale vs. sateen sheets: What's the difference?
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If you've ever shopped for sheets or read our guide to the best sheets, you're probably come across the words "percale" and "sateen." When it comes to the best cotton sheets, these are two types of sheets that are distinctly different.
Percale and sateen are types of cotton weave — how cotton yarns are woven together to create a fabric. They're the most common weaves and cotton sheet types you'll see while shopping for bedding. While both percale and sateen are highly popular and comfortable, you'll probably like one more than the other based on your body temperature and what kind of feel you prefer.
The differences in their properties are due to how each weave is made:
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What does percale feel like?
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Because percale has a tight, even 1:1 weave, it has a crisp, matte, and lightweight feel, similar to a white button-down shirt. It's airy and breathable. Percale is best for sleepers who like to stay cool throughout the night.
If you are searching for a soft yet crisp set, you should consider our L.L. Bean percale sheet set review.
What does sateen feel like?
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Due to its looser weave, where more yarn is exposed to the surface, sateen feels silky smooth, similar to a soft cotton t-shirt, with a slight sheen to it. It's very soft and warm, but it's less breathable than percale, so it might not work for people who sleep warm. Thanks to its luxurious feel, many hotels use sateen sheets in their guest rooms.
If you want a set that gets better with every wash, you should check out our Brooklinen Luxe Sateen Sheets review.
Is percale or sateen better?
The best cotton sheet for you is subjective and depends on how you like to sleep.
Percale is crisp and breathable, and it gets softer over time. Its tight grid pattern also makes it more durable than sateen. It's a great option for hot sleepers or the warmer months.
Sateen has a luxuriously smooth and warm feel, but it tends to snag more easily due to its weave. Since sateen is less abrasion-resistant than percale, you must use more care when handling it. It's ideal for cold sleepers or the colder months.
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Keep in mind that other factors like the type of cotton used and the thread count also play a role in the feel and durability of your sheet. Long-staple cotton, for example, is longer, softer, and more durable than short-staple cotton. Extra-long staple cotton (also known as pima or Supima cotton) is even softer and more durable than long-staple cotton. Meanwhile, thread count — the number of yarns per inch, horizontally and vertically — also helps make a sheet softer and durable.
Take into account weave, cotton type, and thread count when you shop for sheets.
Does percale or sateen cost more?
The type of cotton and thread count affect the final cost. All things equal, you should be able to find percale and sateen sheets for about the same price.
However, since sateen tends to come in at a higher thread count, it's usually more expensive than percale. The higher price also helps contribute to the idea that sateen is more "luxurious" than percale.
Our favorite percale and sateen sheets
Many bedding brands offer both percale and sateen sheets. Once you've determined which type you want, try these sheet sets. We've personally tested them and can vouch for their comfort and durability.