Bamboo bedding and how to choose the weave

Short answer: Percale is dense and cool, sateen is smooth and slightly warmer, and jersey is knitted and stretchy. The three weaves give three completely different experiences in bed.

Percale is the coolest

The thread goes alternately over and under, which gives a matt, even surface that feels cool and slightly crisp. If you sleep warm, it is usually the right choice. See bamboo bedding.

Sateen is smooth and heavier

In a sateen weave several threads lie on top of each other, which gives a smooth, shiny surface. It feels softer and a little warmer to lie under.

Jersey is knitted

Jersey is not woven but knitted, like a T-shirt. That gives stretch and a soft feel, but it is also the one that feels warmest.

Thread count says less

Beyond a certain point more threads make the fabric heavier rather than better. The weave matters more for how it feels. See the rest of the home textiles in home and homewear in bamboo.

Wash from day one

Wash the set before you use it. That removes residue from manufacturing and makes it softer straight away. See washing and care.

Frequently asked questions

What is percale?

A dense weave where the thread goes alternately over and under. It feels cool, matt and slightly crisp.

What is the difference between percale and sateen?

Percale is matt and cool. Sateen is smooth, shiny and feels a little warmer.

Does thread count matter?

Up to a point. Beyond that more threads make the fabric heavier rather than better.