Percale versus sateen in bedding

Short answer: Percale is matt, crisp and cool. Sateen is smooth, soft and has a light sheen. The difference lies in the weave, not in the fibre.

Two ways of weaving

Percale is a simple weave where threads cross one over and one under. Sateen lets each thread run over several others before it goes under. That gives a smoother surface and the characteristic sheen.

How they feel

Percale feels cool and slightly crisp against the skin and softens over time. Sateen feels smooth and soft from the first night and glides more against the skin. See bamboo bedding.

What suits whom

If you sleep warm, percale is often better because it lets more air through. If you want a soft, smooth feel, sateen is the choice. See bamboo sheets.

Durability

Percale is more hard wearing because the threads are locked more tightly. Sateen is slightly more exposed to pulled threads. See bamboo pillowcases.

Frequently asked questions

Can you see the difference

Yes. Sateen has a light sheen, percale is completely matt.

Is sateen warmer

Slightly, because the surface lies closer to the skin.

Which creases less

Sateen, because the smooth surface falls into fewer folds.