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Headshot of author Daniel Noyed
By Daniel Noyed
Methodology
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Do you enjoy crisp, lightweight bedding that sleeps cool and doesn’t drape or cling to the body too closely? If so, you’ll probably enjoy the feel of percale sheets. Percale is a type of weave that produces material with a crisp hand-feel and an airy structure. It is also known as “plain weave.” In addition to sheets, percale is used to construct men’s dress shirts. Percale sheets are normally produced from cotton, but this weave can also be used for other fabrics such as polyester and rayon from bamboo.

A four-piece set of percale sheets and pillowcases can cost anywhere from less than $50 to more than $1,000, but you should be able to find a high-quality collection in the range of $70 to $150. In addition to price, other important factors to consider when choosing a percale sheet set include the fabric’s thread count, the pocket depth of the fitted sheet, care instructions, and the seller’s return policy.

Our best percale sheets guide will cover everything you need to know about this type of bedding, including construction and weave technique, price expectations, pros and cons, and differences between percale and other weave types. First, check out our picks for the best percale sheets sold today. These selections are based on reviews and feedback from verified owners of these sheets, as well as results from our own hands-on testing.

In-Depth Reviews

Price

$185

Material

100% long-staple cotton

Weave

Percale

The Saatva Percale Sheets should feel quite comfortable for anyone who enjoys the crisp, breathable feel of pure cotton. A 200 thread count and percale weave enhance the fiber’s natural qualities to create light, breathable bedding that sleeps cool during hotter times of the year and feels smooth against the skin.

The set is available in six sizes that correspond to standard mattress dimensions, as well as a split king for couples who use adjustable bases. Twin and twin XL sizes include one pillowcase while larger sizes include two, and all sets come with flat and fitted sheets. You can include two extra pillowcases with your purchase for an added fee. The fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 16 inches that makes it compatible with most mattresses made today.

Three neutral colors are available to complement your bedroom decor. Each item in the set is fully machine-washable. Saatva recommends washing with similar colors in cold water and tumble-drying on a low setting.

The price-point for this collection is very reasonable compared to competing sets made from comparable materials. Saatva also offers free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Your trial period for the sheets spans 45 nights in length, and you’ll receive a 1-year warranty if you decide to keep the set after the trial ends.

Price

$125

Material

100% Cotton

Weave

Percale

Percale-woven bedding may not feel particularly soft at first, but high-quality cotton percale sheets are designed to soften over time for a lived-in feel akin to a well-worn T-shirt. Each item in the Silk & Snow Percale Sheets collection is made of natural cotton with a 200 thread count. This ensures an exceptionally lightweight feel, making the set ideal for hot and humid nights, and the percale weave adds extra breathability to keep you cool and dry. Over time, the fibers should relax and soften.

Six sizes are available, all of which correspond with standard mattress dimensions. Twin and twin XL size sets include a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and one pillowcase. Larger sets feature all of these elements, as well as a second pillowcase. You can also purchase a duvet cover and pillow shams to coordinate with your bedding. Silk & Snow offers seven neutral color schemes.

The fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 15 inches. This makes the set compatible with many mattresses sold today, but you should measure yours before purchasing the set just in case. Each item in the set is fully machine-washable for quick and easy care. Silk & Snow recommends using wool dryer balls in lieu of fabric softener.

The Percale Sheets are reasonably priced and shipping is free for all customers in the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. Your order includes a generous sleep trial that spans 100 nights in length. If you decide to keep the sheets after the trial concludes, you’ll also receive a 1-year warranty against material defects.

Price

$279

Material

100% organic cotton

Weave

Percale

Organic cotton is a popular bedding material. It offers the same natural breathability and softness of standard cotton, and is sustainably produced using limited resources. The Boll & Branch Percale Hemmed Sheet Set is a great option if you’re in the market for organic cotton bedding. The material has a crisp hand-feel that will gradually soften over time with subsequent washes. It also offers a fine, lightweight structure without sacrificing durability thanks to a tight percale weave and a generous thread count.

Boll & Branch offers two solid colors and a pinstripe pattern for this collection. Eight sizes are also available. These include the six standard mattress sizes, as well as a split king size for couples who use an adjustable bed base and a king size set with standard size pillowcases. The fitted sheet in the twin size set has a pocket depth of 15 inches, making it compatible with most mattresses sold today, while the larger size fitted sheets have a 17-inch pocket depth for even more reach. Each component of this set can be washed and dried in any household machine. Organic cotton tends to wrinkle a bit, so you may need to iron these items when they are finished drying.

While the Percale Hemmed Sheet Set’s price-point may seem steep at first glance, it’s actually on par with other sheet sets made from high-quality organic cotton. Boll & Branch offers free shipping for U.S. orders and full refunds on returned sheets and pillowcases within 30 days of the original purchase.

Price

$179

Material

100% Long-Staple Cotton

Weave

Percale

The sheets and pillowcases in the Brooklinen Classic Core Sheet Set collection are constructed from long-staple cotton, a material that is more durable than standard cotton. The cotton also has a thread count of 270, which is reasonably high for percale bedding. As a result, this set is comfortable and durable – even after repeated wash cycles.

The Classic Percale Sheet Set is available in a wide range of solid color and pattern options, so you should be able to find a design that matches your decor tastes. The fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 15 inches, meaning the set will be compatible with your mattress as long as it measures no more than 15 inches thick. If you don’t need the flat sheet, Brooklinen also sells the more affordable Classic Starter Set that includes a fitted sheet and two pillowcases. Alternatively, the more expensive Classic Hardcore Set includes the four core components plus a duvet cover and two additional pillowcases.

While you can wash each component of this set in your household machine, Brooklinen recommends line drying these items to preserve their structure. The Classic Core Sheet Set’s price-point is very reasonable compared to other percale collections, especially those made from long-staple cotton. Brooklinen offers free shipping within the contiguous U.S. and accepts used and laundered returns within 365 days of your original purchase.

Price

$230

Material

100% Egyptian cotton (350TC)

Weave

Percale

The Pure Parima Ultra Percale Sheets feature the luxurious hand-feel and exquisite craftsmanship people love about hotel-style bedding. Each sheet and pillowcase in this collection is composed of extra-long staple Egyptian cotton, a material prized for its exceptional softness and durability. A Cotton Egypt Association certification verifies each fiber has been directly sourced from Egypt’s Nile River Valley, ensuring you’re buying real Egyptian cotton and not a blend containing other fabrics. Single-needle stitching and elegant tonal flange add to the set’s sophisticated look.

The percale weave makes these items feel crisp at first, but the cotton fibers will relax and soften over time. This adds to the material’s natural breathability, making the set particularly well-suited to hot and humid climates. You can wash and dry the sheets and pillowcases in household machines, but Pure Parima recommends doing so sparingly – frequent laundry cycles will cause the fibers to break down more quickly, potentially leading to premature wear and tear.

You can choose from five sizes for your set. Twin sizes include a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and single pillow case. The full, queen, king, and California king options feature all of these elements, as well as a second pillowcase. The fitted sheet’s pocket depth makes it compatible with the vast majority of mattresses sold today, including high-profile models too thick for standard-pocket sheets. The set is also available in four colors.

The Ultra Percale Sheets are affordably priced compared to other Egyptian cotton collections of this caliber, and Pure Parima ships for free to all 50 states. All purchases are backed by a 100-night trial period, during which you may return the sheets for a full refund as long as each item is in like-new condition.

Price

$149

Material

100% cotton (300TC)

Weave

Percale

Most sheet sets are available in multiple colors, but many are limited to white, off-white, and other classic neutrals. With the Classic Cool Percale Sheet Set from The Company Store, you can choose from nearly 20 different palettes. These include neutrals, earth tones, and more striking options such as teal, merlot, and forest green. As long as you follow the care instructions, the sheets and pillowcases should retain full color for years to come.

All components of the set are composed of pure cotton, which is combed during production to soften the fibers. A percale weave gives each item a crisp hand-feel, and this nicely balances the cotton’s smooth texture. Percale-woven bedding is also prized for its breathability — these sheets sleep much cooler than their sateen-woven counterparts — and with time and subsequent laundry cycles, the fabric should relax and feel more lived-in. 

The set is available in six sizes that correspond to standard mattress dimensions. In addition to the color selection, you can opt to have your sheets and pillowcases personalized with a monogram for an extra fee. To launder your bedding, machine-wash with like colors in a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low heat. Removing the items as soon as the drying cycle is finished should minimize wrinkling.

Approachable pricing and free shipping for all orders make the set a solid choice for budget-conscious shoppers. The Company Store allows you to try out the Classic Cool Percale Sheet Set for up to 30 nights. If you decide to return the set during this time frame, you’ll receive a full refund minus a small processing fee.

Price

$125

Material

100% GOTS-certified long-staple organic cotton

Weave

Percale

Percale sheets are usually quite breathable, and the Homebird Percale Fitted Sheet Set is no exception. The fitted sheet and pillowcases are made from long-staple cotton, a material touted for its durability and breathability. A GOTS certification backs the materials, ensuring they were grown using environmentally friendly means without the use of pesticides or growth modifiers.

The sheets are pre-washed for a gentle feel when new, and they should soften more over time. Each set includes a fitted sheet and two pillowcases. The fitted sheet has a 16-inch deep pocket that is compatible with most mattresses. The longer and shorter sides of the sheet are labeled to make changing sheets quick and easy. Customers can choose between full, queen, and king sizes, as well as eight color options.

Each item in the set is washable in household machines. Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, and tumble dry on the lowest setting. Remove the set from the dryer immediately to prevent wrinkling. Homebird ships free to customers in all 50 states, as well as Canadian provinces and territories. Percale Fitted Sheet Set purchases come with a 45-night sleep trial.

Price

$198

Material

100% Egyptian Cotton

Weave

Percale

While percale sheets are popular with many sleepers, some find this type of bedding a bit too coarse at first. The Snowe Percale Sheet Set feels exceptionally soft while retaining the classic crisp appearance of percale sheets. The sheets are particularly well-suited to people seeking sheets that are both breathable and easy on the skin.

The 500 thread count sheets are made with long-staple cotton, which is known for its high quality and durability. The lightweight feel and natural breathability make these sheets a good option for sleepers who run hot. While the sheets feel softer than other percale sets we’ve tested, subsequent laundry cycles will further soften the bedding for a relaxed, lived-in feel. For best results, machine wash in warm water on a gentle cycle with like colors and tumble dry with low heat. You can use a warm iron if wrinkling occurs.

The set is available in four colors — classic ivory, essential white, ash grey, and slate blue. You can choose from a full, queen, king, or California king size. All sets come with a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. The fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 17 inches, making it compatible with most mattresses sold today.

Snowe charges a small shipping fee for orders in the contiguous U.S. You can test the sheets for up to 14 nights, during which you may return the sheets for a refund minus a return shipping fee.

Price

$159

Material

100% organic cotton (300TC)

Weave

Percale

The SOL Organics Percale Cotton Sheet Set is made with organic cotton that feels luxuriously soft against the skin while keeping the crisp look that percale bedding is known for. These sheets are breathable and lightweight enough for summer months while still keeping you cozy in cooler months.

The sheet set is composed of 100% long-staple cotton, which is a variety of cotton known for its durability, softness, and resistance to pilling. The percale weave gives the sheets a lightweight feel and a more structured appearance than sheets with a sateen weave, which drape more closely to the body. People who tend to sweat or run hot at night will appreciate the airy quality of these sheets.

The set is available in twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king sizes, and you can pick from five neutral color options. Each set comes with a flat sheet and fitted sheet. Most sets come with two pillowcases, but the twin and twin XL sets include just one. The fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 15 inches, which should accommodate many mattresses but may fall short with thicker models.

SOL Organics offers a 30-night sleep trial with this sheet set. Customers may return the sheets for a full refund within this timeframe. Shipping is free for all U.S. orders. Discounts are available when you purchase more than one set.

Best Percale Sheets Video

In the video below, our Sleep Foundation test team takes a closer look at the feel and performance of our top percale sheet picks.

What Are Percale Sheets?

Some consumers mistake “cotton percale” for a specific variety of cotton. In fact, the term percale refers to a type of weave used to make bedding, garments, and other products. Percale is also known as plain weave. Most percale sheets are made from cotton, but this weave can also be used with polyester, rayon from bamboo, microfiber, and other synthetic fabrics.

Each woven fabric consists of vertical threads known as warps and horizontal threads known as wefts. For percale, the wefts pass – or “float” – over the warps in a one-by-one pattern, forming a grid shape that leaves the material with a crisp hand-feel that will gradually soften over time. Percale’s tight structure requires fewer threads than other weaves, so its thread counts are generally lower and the fabric is relatively lightweight. This sets percale apart from other weaving techniques such as sateen and twill.

The minimum thread count for percale is 180, but most percale sets fall in the 200 to 300 thread count range. The average set of percale cotton sheets will cost between $70 and $150, but some high-quality sets have lower sticker prices. In the guide below, we’ll discuss how percale is made, key differences between percale and sateen, and what to look for when shopping for a new percale sheet set.

Percale vs. Sateen

Like percale, sateen is a weave commonly used for sheets and pillowcases. In the table below, we’ll outline the key differences between these two weave types.

PercaleSateen
WeaveThe weft floats over and under one warp at a time to create a tight, grid-shaped pattern.The weft thread floats under three warp threads for each one it floats over, resulting in a looser weave.
MaterialThe percale weave can be used for cotton, as well as synthetic fabrics like polyester and rayon from bamboo.Sateen is primarily used for cotton, as well, but may also be used with polyester and rayon from bamboo.
FeelThe tight weave gives percale an initially crisp feel that many compare to men’s shirting material, but it will soften with use. Percale is also very lightweight and breathable since it requires fewer threads.Sateen is smooth and silky-soft when new. Over time, sateen will become softer and drapier. Since the thread count is higher, sateen is usually heavier than percale and also not as breathable.
Thread CountThe minimum thread count for percale is 180, but the optimal range for this material is 200 to 300.The ideal thread count for sateen sheets is 300 to 600. The looser weave requires more threads to hold the fabric together.
Price RangeThe average percale sheet set costs between $70 and $150.Similarly, the average sateen sheet set costs between $50 and $150.
Who They’re Good ForPercale sheets are best suited to people who prefer crisp, lightweight bedding. They also offer above-average breathability.Sateen sheets are ideal for sleepers who enjoy soft, drapey bedding. The loose weave gives sateen a smooth feel, but the material is not as breathable as percale.

How to Choose Percale Sheets

Buying new sheets might seem like a straightforward purchase, but there are a few factors to consider before deciding which set is right for you. These include feel, thread count, pocket depth of the fitted sheet, and ease of care. In the next section, we’ll explain what each factor entails and how to evaluate different sheet sets based on these criteria.

What to Consider When Buying Percale Sheets

From misleadingly high thread counts to claims of sheets that “never wear out,” dubious assertions and exaggerations can be common in the bedding industry. Rather than relying on brand marketers to guide your purchasing decision, we recommend evaluating each set using the following criteria. This will help you distinguish high-quality sheet sets from their lower-quality competitors.

Weave
All percale sheets are woven with the weft threads floating over the warp threads in a tight, one-by-one pattern. Unless this technique is used, then the sheets should not be considered percale. Keep in mind that some brands prefer the more traditional “plain weave” label, which is synonymous with percale.

Feel
You’ll notice a crisp texture with new percale sheets. This can be attributed to how tightly the threads are woven together. Don’t worry if they feel too rough at first – the sheets and pillowcases will soften with subsequent washes. Percale is also relatively lightweight since fewer threads are required during the weaving process.

Fit
Before you begin sheet shopping, take a moment to measure how thick your mattress is. Every fitted sheet is designed for mattresses up to a certain height, as indicated by its “pocket depth” measurement. Most fitted sheets have a pocket depth of at least 14 inches, making them compatible with most mattresses sold today, but we recommend checking anyway. The deepest pocket percale sheets will be compatible with mattresses measuring at least 18 inches thick.

Price
The average percale sheet set costs between $70 and $150. You may be able to find a high-quality set for less, but many of these items are made from fabric blends, not pure cotton. On the other hand, a luxury sheet set can easily run you $500 or more. These include items produced from pure Egyptian cotton, Pima cotton, and other high-end fabrics.

Thread Count
Technically, the fabric must have a thread count of 180 to be considered percale. When judging a fabric by quality a thread count of 200 to 300 is a good benchmark for percale sheets and pillowcases. Thread count is not necessarily an indicator of quality, especially if the number seems unusually high.

Design, Color, and Pattern
This factor is purely aesthetic, but still important to many consumers. Percale sheets are available in a wide range of designs, including neutral and earth tones, bright shades, and multi-colored patterns. Depending on the brand, you may need to pay more for certain colors and patterns, such as “limited edition” styles.

Breathability
Percale is typically quite breathable. This can be attributed to its weaving technique, which requires fewer threads and creates a fabric that allows air to pass through more easily. Many sleepers prefer percale bedding for summer months and hotter climates. Cotton percale is especially well suited to warm weather thanks to its moisture-wicking properties.

Durability
Cotton percale tends to be more durable than percale produced from other fibers. However, the material will still break down over time. Pilling, or the appearance of small bumps of cotton on the fabric’s surface, is a common sign of wear. As your sheet set nears the end of its lifespan, you may also notice rips and tears developing, and the fitted sheet’s elasticated corners may lose some of their stretch.

Ease of Care
Most percale sheets and pillowcases can be washed and dried in any household machine. However, you should not wash them too frequently because laundering breaks down the fabric and causes wear and tear. To preserve the material and extend your set’s lifespan, consider line-drying your percale sheets and pillowcases instead of drying them in a machine.

What Types of Percale Sheets Are Available?

While percale sheet sets made from synthetic fibers like polyester and rayon are widely available and – in most cases – relatively affordable, cotton percale sets generally offer higher quality, better durability, and more consistent temperature control.

As you browse different sheet sets, you’ll notice terms like “long-staple,” “Pima cotton,” and “blended percale.” While similar in structure, each type of percale offers distinct pros and cons for sleepers. Below, we’ve highlighted four of the most common percale categories.

  • Standard: “Staple” refers to the length of cotton fibers used to produce the fabric, and is a good indicator of overall quality and longevity. Standard cotton has a staple length of 1.125 inches or shorter. This material is more susceptible to early pilling and wear, but sets made of standard cotton are often easy on the wallet.
  • Long-Staple Cotton: By definition, long-staple cotton measures about 1.25 inches in length. While this may seem like a slight advantage, long-staple cotton is considerably softer and more durable than standard cotton.
  • Extra-long Staple Cotton: ELS for short, extra-long staple cotton can measure up to 2 inches in length. Two of the most sought after cotton types, Egyptian and Pima, are ELS varieties.
  • Blended Percale: In most cases, blended percale refers to a blend of cotton and polyester. This material is not as strong or durable as pure cotton percale, but it is affordable and feels quite soft.
  • Organic Cotton: In order to earn the “organic” certification, cotton must be grown without GMO seeds, chemical fertilizers, or pesticides. Prominent certifying organizations for organic cotton include the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Global Organic Textile Standard.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Percale Sheets?

While many sleepers love percale sheets for their crisp hand-feel and consistent breathability, the material is also susceptible to heavy wrinkling and may be too lightweight for cold weather. The table below summarizes some of percale’s most notable pros and cons.

ProsCons
  • Due to its tighter weave and lower thread count, percale sheets tend to be very lightweight and breathable. Cotton percale is also absorbent and will wick moisture away from the skin.
  • Percale sheets and pillowcases feel crisp at first but soften over time, striking a fine balance between smooth and scratchy.
  • Percale’s tight weave structure makes the material quite durable, especially compared to sateen. The fabric shouldn’t pill too much or attract lint during cleanings.
  • Percale is a low-maintenance material. For most sets, you’ll be able to wash and dry each component at home without spot cleaning or dry cleaning. However, you may wish to line dry the items to minimize wear and tear.
  • The composition of percale makes the material wrinkle easily. Some brands discourage ironing percale sheets, which means you may need to smooth them by hand.
  • Some sleepers find percale too coarse and scratchy. This is particularly common with sheet sets made from low-grade cotton, cotton blends, and synthetic fabrics like polyester.
  • While percale is quite breathable and well suited to warm weather, the fabric is a bit too thin and lightweight to insulate you from the cold. You may want to consider a heavier sheet set for the winter months.

Who Is Best Suited to Percale Sheets?

Percale sheets are optimal for people who want a crisp hand-feel from their bedding that will become softer over time. The fabric will never drape closely to the skin like sateen due to its tighter weave, nor will it feel as smooth, but many sleepers prefer the gentle texture of used percale to the body-hugging clinginess of sateen.

Hot sleepers should also consider a percale sheet set, especially if they find sateen excessively warm. As the percale technique incorporates a lower amount of threads, air will pass through the material more easily. If you are an exceptionally hot sleeper, you should definitely pick cotton percale over blended or synthetic percale. Cotton offers natural breathability and absorbency, so you can stay cool and dry during the night.

Lastly, percale sheets are a solid investment because the material offers better longevity than sateen. Percale won’t pill as easily, either. If you’re in the market for a cotton sheet set that will deliver high value over time, percale is your best bet – especially long-staple and extra-long staple cotton varieties.

What Is the Ideal Thread Count for Percale Sheets?

At minimum, percale sheets and pillowcases must have a thread count of 180, but the ideal thread range for this material is 200 to 300. If the yarns are exceptionally dense or the cotton staples are longer, then the thread count may be higher. Comparatively, sateen’s looser weave requires more threads to hold together, so this material’s ideal thread count range is 300 to 600.

The term thread count refers to the number of horizontal weft and vertical warp threads found in one square inch of fabric. Thread count can help you evaluate the weight, breathability, and longevity of a sheet set. However, many bedding manufacturers exaggerate both the thread counts of their products and the importance of thread count as an indicator of overall quality.

For example, some percale sheets are made by twisting – or “plying” – two or more yarns together for each warp and weft thread. Some brands that produce two-ply sheets will double their advertised thread count. If you see a set of percale sheets with a thread count of 400 or higher, then chances are the items are made of two-ply material. Thread counts of 600 or higher may indicate three or more plies. While higher thread counts often drive up the sticker price of sheets, percale with two or more plies is not necessarily of better quality or more comfortable than single-ply material. Even the best Egyptian cotton percale sheets carry a relatively modest thread count unless the manufacturer has inflated the number.

More Frequently Asked Questions About Percale Sheets

What is the typical price range for percale sheets?

For a high-quality cotton percale sheet set with a thread count of 200 to 300, expect to pay between $70 and $150. You may find more affordable cotton percale sets, but lower prices often indicate blended or synthetic percale. Sheet sets that cost more than $150 are often made from premium materials such as organic cotton, long-staple cotton, or extra-long staple varieties such as Egyptian or Pima cotton. However, higher thread counts can also make sheet sets more expensive – and as we’ve already discussed, thread count may not indicate better quality.

How long do percale sheets last?

A high-quality percale sheet set should last at least five years. That said, many factors will affect the durability of your percale bedding, such as the type of fibers used, the staple length if the sheets are pure cotton, and how frequently you launder these items. Percale resists pilling better than sateen, so your sheets and pillowcases shouldn’t become too bumpy over time.

How do I wash and care for percale sheets?

Unless the care tag says differently, your percale sheets and pillowcases can be washed and dried in any household machine. You should wash them with like colors, especially if you choose a white set. Percale is prone to heavy wrinkling, so you may need to smooth the sheets by hand after removing them from the dryer; many brands discourage ironing the wrinkles. Additionally, you should wash your percale bedding items sparingly in order to preserve their structure and extend their lifespan.


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