Bed & Bath Linens

Percale Sheets

Percale sheets are woven using a classic one-yarn-over, one-yarn-under pattern that creates a flat, crisp fabric with a matte finish and cool hand feel. This plain weave is one of the oldest and most traditional textile constructions, prized for its durability, breathability, and satisfying crispness that many associate with high-end hotel bedding. Percale requires a minimum thread count of 180, though quality percale typically falls in the 200-400 range where the crisp character is most pronounced. The defining characteristic of percale is its cool, breathable nature, making it the preferred choice for warm sleepers and those living in hot climates. Unlike sateen, which traps slightly more heat due to its tighter weave structure, percale allows air to circulate freely through the fabric. The matte finish gives percale a clean, understated elegance that works beautifully in both casual and formal bedroom settings. While percale does wrinkle more readily than sateen, many design enthusiasts consider the natural rumpling part of its relaxed charm, particularly in linen-cotton percale blends.

Key Characteristics

  • One-over-one-under plain weave construction
  • Crisp matte finish with cool hand feel
  • Excellent breathability for warm sleepers
  • Minimum 180 thread count by definition
  • Becomes softer with repeated washing
  • More wrinkle-prone than sateen weaves

Types & Variations

100% cotton percale
Cotton-linen blend percale
Organic cotton percale
Pima cotton percale
Egyptian cotton percale

Common Materials

Long-staple cottonSupima cottonEgyptian cottonOrganic cottonCotton-linen blendPima cotton

Placement & Usage Tips

Percale sheets look best with a slightly rumpled, lived-in aesthetic rather than being ironed perfectly flat. Pair with a lightweight coverlet or quilt for a classic layered look. The matte finish complements both modern and traditional bedroom furnishings equally well.

💡 Pro Tip

New percale sheets may feel slightly stiff due to manufacturing starches, but they soften dramatically after three to four washes. Resist the urge to add fabric softener, which will coat the fibers. Instead, add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle for the first few washes to help remove residual starches naturally.