“The two most common types of sheet weaves are percale and sateen,” says Byron Golub, director of product and merchandising at Saatva. “Of the two, percale is the more breathable option. Here’s the technical reason why: percale uses a one-yarn-over, one-yarn-under design. It produces a fabric with a matte finish that allows for excellent airflow between the threads.” To find the best percale sheets, our in-house testers evaluated more than a dozen different percale sheet sets at our lab in Des Moines. Using a pre-determined methodology, testers evaluated each set based on five categories: quality, texture, breathability, value, and durability. After lab testing, we also sent the top-rated sheets home with testers for extended testing to see how they hold up over time in a home environment. We’ve added one-month and three-month insights from their experiences to this list, and we’ll be checking back in with the testers after six months of testing. Keep in Mind: A tester noted one loose string in the top sheet, though it didn’t appear to unravel further. The sheet set includes one fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and 1-2 pillowcases, depending on the size. The set is machine washable and after washing, testers found that there weren’t many wrinkles. They also didn’t note any shrinkage and found that they still fit on the bed very well. Initially, there was a long string that detached from the top sheet stitching, but it didn’t continue to unravel and there were no snags elsewhere. Otherwise, it was noted that the sheets felt soft, cool, and breathable. Even better, our testers didn’t feel that any heat was getting trapped underneath, which is ideal for both warm sleepers and those that live in warmer climates. After evaluating the sheets, testers concluded that the set was smooth, high quality, and comfortable and they appreciated the price point for the set, which they thought would’ve been more expensive. Our longterm tester is typically a cold sleeper while their husband runs hot. After one month of testing, however, our tester noted that these sheets worked well for both of them although they didn’t notice a specific cooling effect. Overall, the tester felt that the sheets were nice, soft, and easy to wash. They’ve worked them into their rotation of sheet options and particularly appreciated the dark gray color they tested, as they’re a departure from typical color options. Price at time of publish: $170 for queen Material: Supima cotton | Thread Count: 300 | Weave: Percale | Pocket Size: 16 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin xl, full, queen, king, California king | Certification: Not listed Keep in Mind: Testers felt that they might feel a bit heavy for some sleepers. They’re also offered in a more limited size range than some other styles. The sheet set includes a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and two pillowcases. Testers found that these sheets are breathable but not as lightweight as some of the other tested picks, so you may have to purchase a separate sheet for the summer. These sheets also held up very nicely after a wash—in fact, our testers found them to be softer and they even fit the bed better. Price at time of publish: $45 for queen Material: Cotton | Thread Count: 300 | Weave: Percale | Pocket Size: Not listed | Sizes: Twin, queen, king | Certification: Not listed Keep in Mind: They have a lower thread count than some other styles. The sheet set includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and 1-2 pillowcases, depending on the size. It’s also offered in a few colors and sizes, so you’ll be able to find which one suits your style best. Plus, the set is GOTS-certified which means it’s proven to use organic cotton. At only 200 thread count, the sheets have a soft feel yet may not feel as luxe as some other options. They do feel cool to the touch, however our testers noted that they do become a bit warmer after a bit. Still, they felt soft after a wash and showed no rips or snags. In fact, though the top sheet “fit like a glove” at the start, the tester found the sheets fit the bed even better after laundering. Price at time of publish: $140 for queen Material: Organic cotton | Thread Count: 200 | Weave: Percale | Pocket Size: Up to 16 inches | Sizes: Full, queen, king | Certification: GOTS Keep in Mind: The set is only offered in three colors, so it’s not ideal if you want a more vibrant option. After a wash, the sheets still fit the bed easily and looked great without any visible shrinkage stretching or loose threads. While these sheets did feel cool and breathable, they held a tiny bit of heat so our testers recommend truly warm sleepers pair them with a fan or air conditioner Our testers very much appreciated that the fitted sheet had tags to indicate which side of the bed. The corners of the fitted sheet had durable elastic to make it stay on the bed, and it didn’t seem like it would get stretched out in the wash. The bottom sheet did seem to wrinkle easily, but our testers found no snags or any other imperfections. The price is a bit more expensive than some other options, but overall, our testers found it was worth it for the quality of the sheets. Price at time of publish: $185 for queen Material: Organic cotton | Thread Count: Not listed | Weave: Percale | Pocket Size: 16 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin xl, full, queen, king, California king, split king | Certification: GOTS Keep in Mind: Testers found that they felt a bit scratchy yet not uncomfortable, so it depends on your preferences. They were also concerned about the elastic band, which could stretch out over time. Testers felt that the sheets were a bit loose when first making the bed, so be prepared to do a little extra tucking to get it smooth just the way you like it. While there is an all-around elastic band to make it stay on the mattress firmly, our testers really had to tuck the bottom of the fitted sheet to smooth out the corners. Plus, they were concerned that the band could stretch out over time. The set, which is offered in ten colors, includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and 1-2 pillowcases. They did feel a bit scratchy, though they’re not in any way that would cause discomfort. Overall, they reminded one tester of the type of sheets you might find at a hotel. After one month of using them, our tester reported that the sheets have held up well and haven’t any signs of pilling or wear and tear. Although the tester was initially concerned about how thin the sheets felt, they confirmed that they stayed intact even after their dog slept and jumped around on them. The manufacturer recommends removing the sheets promptly from the dryer and our longterm tester agreed—otherwise, they noted, you may end up having to iron the sheets after each wash. Price at time of publish: $139 for queen Material: Organic cotton | Thread Count: 300 | Weave: Percale | Pocket Size: Not listed | Sizes: Twin, twin xl, full, queen, king, California king | Certification: Not listed Keep in Mind: The set doesn’t come with a top sheet, but you can add one to your order for an additional charge. They also didn’t wash well and testers were concerned about how they would hold up over time. While these sheets were soft and comfortable, they didn’t feel silky or slippery like some other sets can be. Instead, they felt light and airy, which is exactly what our testers liked to see in the sheet. It was disappointing, however, to see that after a wash the sheets shrink quite a bit, resulting in a snugger fit on the mattress and the pillows. While our testers found no loose seams when making up the bed the first time, it was a different story after washing—there were quite a few threads that were loose around the stitching. Still, the softness and comfortable feel are what sold our testers on these sheets. They also come in more than a dozen colors, including two striped patterns, as opposed to some other picks that are offered in more neutral shades. Just keep in mind that this set doesn’t include a top sheet, so you’ll have to purchase one separately if you need it. Price at time of publish: $120 for queen (no top sheet) Material: Cotton | Thread Count: Not listed | Weave: Percale | Pocket Size: Not listed | Sizes: Twin, twin xl, full, queen, king, California king | Certification: Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX Keep in Mind: The set doesn’t come with a top sheet but you can add one to your order for an additional charge. They’re also more expensive than some other similar options. The set includes a fitted sheet and pillowcase set and offers the option to add a top sheet for an additional cost. It’s offered in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can choose which suits your space best. Plus, testers found there were no visible loose threads and with tight stitching at the seams, these sheets look like they’ll be able to withstand multiple washes over time. These sheets held up beautifully after a wash both in the lab and during at-home testing, with no shrinkage and no signs of wear. Plus, they’re Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX certified, which confirms the pieces are not made with any substances the OEKO-TEX institutes deem harmful. After three months of using them, our tester noted that they’ve abandoned their old sheets in favor of these. They don’t show any signs of wear and tear and washed well, even when the tester got a bit of mascara on them. The lightweight sheets even dried well in the dryer, as opposed to some other options they’ve tried that remained damp. Price at time of publish: $149 for queen (no top sheet) Material: Egyptian cotton | Thread Count: Not listed | Weave: Percale | Pocket Size: Not listed | Sizes: Twin, twin xl, full, queen, king, California king | Certification: Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX Keep in Mind: The set is more expensive than other similar sets. One tester also felt that the fitted sheet was not as good quality as the other pieces. The set includes a top sheet, a fitted sheet, and 1-2 pillowcases, depending on the size. It’s offered in a few sizes and three colors: white, white-grey, and white-khaki. During testing, it was noted that while the top sheet and pillowcases felt soft, the bottom sheet felt more wrinkled and stiff. One tester was concerned that over time, the elastic on the corners could wear out and not secure the sheet in place. Nonetheless, testers liked the set’s embroidery and felt it made for a nice touch. Overall, testers found that the set had a nice weight to it without feeling too heavy. They noted that it was breathable and the top sheet didn’t seem to lock in heat underneath, making it a great option for warm sleepers. Price at time of publish: $575 for queen Material: Cotton | Thread Count: Not listed | Weave: Percale | Pocket Size: 15 inches | Sizes: Twin, queen, king, California king | Certification: Not listed
Our Testing Process
To find the best percale sheets, our in-house testing team tried out 27 percale sheet sets in our lab in Des Moines, Iowa. Each product’s label was covered up during the testing process so our testers didn’t know the brand or price of each sheet set. Using a pre-determined methodology, our testers evaluated each sheet set based on five categories: overall quality, texture, breathability, value, and durability. When it came to quality, testers took each set out of its packaging and evaluated them to see if there were any loose threads or other imperfections. They also measured them to confirm they were the proper size. Afterward, they made a bed with the sheets, noting how well it stayed put and what it looked like. To evaluate the set’s texture, testers ran their hands over the sheets and took note of whether they felt smooth and silky, crisp, or rough and scratchy. To test breathability, wearing a short-sleeved shirt, testers laid on the sheets for five minutes, monitoring if the sheets felt warmed or retained their cool, crisp feeling. In terms of durability, the sheets were evaluated based on how well they held up after being washed based on the manufacturer’s instructions. Testers measured each piece for shrinkage or stretching and then made the bed again, taking note of any imperfections that may have come up. To determine value, testers were then asked to note their overall feelings about the sheets, if they were worth the price, and if they’d recommend them to family and friends. After lab testing, we also sent the top-rated sheets home with testers for extended testing to see how they hold up over time in a home environment. We’ve added one-month and three-month insights from their experiences to this list, and we’ll be checking back in with the testers after six months of testing for additional insight.
Other Products We Tested
Garnet Hill Solid Hemstitched Supima Percale Bedding
Our testers were impressed by the stitching of the Garnet Hill Solid Hemstitched Supima Percale Bedding but the texture was a bit scratchy. The fabric felt thicker, which is not a problem for cool sleepers or for cooler seasons, but it might be too heavy for hot sleepers and summertime slumber. Our testers also noticed that there was some shrinkage after a wash and though the stitching remained intact, there were some hanging threads that needed to be cut.
Gap Home Solid Percale Easy Care Sheet Set
Though the Gap Home Solid Percale Easy Care Sheet Set felt soft, our testers found some loose threads on the top and fitted sheets. Both human and pet hair seemed to stick to them quite easily. Still, they felt breathable and comfortable, though our testers noted they felt more like a synthetic feel. After a wash, there wasn’t much shrinkage, but they did not soften up and still felt a bit scratchy.
Sferra Celeste Collection
Our testers noted that these sheets from the Sferra Celeste Collection felt more like paper. While it was easy for these to stretch on the bed with no loose threads visible, they looked uncomfortable and unfortunately, our testers agreed when they got up close and personal with them. Perhaps more washings could soften up this bedding set, but due to the higher price point, our testers expected better.
What to Know About Percale Sheets Before Shopping
Material
A percale weave can be used with a few fibers, but it works especially well in the construction of the cotton fabric. According to Golub, you should go specifically with organic cotton for the best breathability. “Cotton is by far the most popular sheet fabric on the market today,” Golub says. “It offers great airflow and moisture-wicking properties. Since organic cotton plants are grown without pesticides, they yield longer-staple fibers, which results in a softer, more breathable fabric.”
Weave
When it comes to percale, keep in mind that it refers to the weave of the fabric and not the specific material the sheets are made of. It’s known for having a crisp and cool feeling, like what you’ll often find in hotel bedding. According to Golub, percale is a simple weave, which allows for great breathability. In general, percale has a thread count of 200 or higher.
Pocket Size
The pocket size of a sheet refers to the elastic corners of a fitted sheet. To determine what size pocket you need, you’ll want to take into consideration the depth of your mattress—the thicker the mattress, the larger pocket you’ll need.
Certifications
When it comes to percale sheets, the most common certifications you’ll find are Global Organic Textiles Standard (GOTS) and Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX. The GOTS certification means its entire supply chain has been independently verified to meet standards set by the organization and the materials are organic. If a product received the Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX label it means it has met a set of rigorous standards set and tested by independent OEKO-TEX partner institutes. During testing, the institutes consider a variety of regulated substances as well as any non-regulated substances they may deem harmful.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the difference between Egyptian cotton and percale?
When it comes to cotton versus percale, it’s important to keep in mind material versus weave. Egyptian cotton is an actual cotton fabric. Percale, on the other hand, is a weave that can be used for a variety of different fabrics, including Egyptian cotton.
Are percale sheets scratchy?
Percale is typically crisp and cool however, some can feel scratchy at first. However, sheets made from a percale weave have been known to soften up over time, especially with multiple washes.
Is thread count important in sheets?
Overall, it’s often believed that the higher the thread count, the softer the sheet. While this is still true to some extent, it really depends on the fabric as well as the weave that is used to make it. You’ll note that some of the bedding on our best percale sheets list thread counts that seem low, while some don’t list any. Still, our testers found them to be soft to the touch because of the fibers and percale weave.
Who We Are
Barbara Bellesi Zito is a freelance writer for Better Homes & Gardens. To make this list, she reviewed the findings of our in-house testers who analyzed a variety of sheet sets based on their quality, texture, breathability, durability, and value. She also consulted Byron Golub, director of product and merchandising at Saatva, for his expertise.
What is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed our BHG Recommends seal of approval. Products that earn the seal have been put through rigorous testing to make sure they’re worth a spot in your home. We buy most of the products we test ourselves, but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying isn’t an option. In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products and we let you know that we got it for free to remain as transparent as possible about our picks. Looking for more products that have earned our BHG Recommends seal of approval? Check out our picks for everything from picnic blankets to humidifiers.
