Sateen vs. Percale - What's the Difference?

When it comes to choosing the right sheets, there are a few things to consider.

• Do you want a specific fabric?
• What thread count are you looking for?
• Do you have any allergies?
• How soft or crisp do you want your sheets to feel?

With all of these factors to consider, it can be tough to decide which sheets are right for your needs.  

Sateen and Percale are two of the most popular high-end cotton fabrics. 

If you have any of these two in mind, choose the weave that’s right for you: percale feels cool and crisp, while sateen is exceptionally soft and smooth. With that being said, a good sheet is one that feels great to the touch and that’s something only you can determine. After all, you’re the one who's sleeping on it!

Do you know the difference between Sateen and Percale sheets?

If not, we're here to tell you! Let’s take a look at the differences between these two types of sheets, as well as the benefits of each. Hopefully, this will help you decide which type of sheet is right for you.

 

The biggest difference between Percale and Sateen is the way they're woven. Percale sheets are woven in a simple one-over, one-under pattern. This results in a strong, durable fabric that's perfect for everyday use. Sateen sheets, on the other hand, are woven in a three-over, one-under pattern. This results in a softer fabric that has a beautiful sheen to it. 

The one-over-one weave passes over a single warp thread while the four underpasses through four separate strands. The two different types of weaves have similar patterns but differently arranging these individual threads creates diverse outcomes that can be seen in percale sheets compared to sateen fabrics.

 

Weave Style: Sateen uses a one-yarn-under and three-yarn-over weave, giving it a smooth and lustrous surface.

Feel: Sateen sheets are silky, smooth, and drape well over the bed, with a slightly heavier feel compared to percale.

Durability: They are also durable but more prone to pilling than percale.

Temperature: Better for cooler climates or those who prefer a warmer, cozy feel, as they retain heat more than percale.

Appearance: They have a luxurious, shiny finish with a slight sheen, giving them a more elegant look.

 

Weave Style: Percale is a simple, one-over-one-under weave, creating a crisp and matte finish.

Feel: Percale sheets are light, crisp, and cool to the touch, offering a breathable and airy feel.

Durability: They are known for being durable and tend to get softer with each wash.

Temperature: Ideal for hot sleepers or warmer climates, as they are breathable and don't retain heat.

Appearance: They have a matte finish and a slightly textured feel, without the sheen found in sateen sheets.

 

In summary, percale sheets are best for those who prefer a crisp, cool, and breathable fabric, while sateen sheets are ideal for those who enjoy a silky, smooth feel with a bit more warmth and sheen. Now that you know more about these two types of fabrics, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Thanks for reading!