I tried both the brand’s 300-thread Count Organic Percale Sheet Set and the Organic Print Percale Sheet Set. Unlike the Organic Print, this set has a wider hemline on the flat sheet and pillowcases and (I’m assuming) a higher thread count since it’s highlighted in the product name. I must say, I’m not 100% sure how they differ technically, but they each have their own distinct feel. The 300-thread count sheets are thick, crisp and honestly emulate linen bedding. My main gripe is that it was so crisp, it wasn’t amazing to snuggle up in after my long day, which I expect from unwashed linen rather than percale. But I found this is also a bonus: I’m sure that, just like linen, it will get softer with every wash and last for years. What mainly stood out was the breathability. It wasn’t the coldest sleep of my life, rather it was light and airy (also like linen). So linen lovers, if you want a break from ironing your wrinkled sheets every week, then definitely give this percale set a try.
Best Smooth Percale Sheet Set: Double Stitch
Double stitch perfected the smooth percale sheet. I know that those who opt for sateen sheets or bamboo dislike percale for its stiffness—this set is the outlier for them. Why? Because it’s 65% lyocell and only 35% cotton. Tencel lyocell is a semi-synthetic fabric derived from wood pulp, in many cases bamboo, and replicates the glossy feel of silk at a lower price point. It’s also moisture-wicking. Mix that satin feel together with matte cotton threads and this supple percale sheet set is born.
Double Stitch is the new, more upscale sister company of popular and affordable bedding brand Bedsure, so it’s understandable that this set is an underdog with only 14 reviews on the site. As a fan of bamboo lyocell who’s occasionally fatigued by its slippery nature, I think this hybrid is genius. The construction is nice as well and the fitted sheet covered my mattress nicely. I slept comfortably and wasn’t frozen, but definitely temperate. It may be obvious, but this set literally gives you the best of both worlds and is, therefore, a total crowd-pleaser.
Best Cooling Percale Sheet Set: Saatva
The majority of Saatva (best known for its luxury mattresses) reviewers applaud this sheet set for its chill and soft threads, but they warn of the fabric’s wrinkly nature. I didn’t have that much of an issue, finding that the steamy dryer got the wrinkles out of my sheet pretty well, but what they lack in smoothness, they make up for in temperature regulation. They’re lightweight and run a bit thin so they don’t trap body heat and have a lovely soft weave. The fabric is made from long-staple cotton and features a 200 thread count which amps up the breathability. Bonus: The fitted sheet has deep pockets that cover mattresses up to 16 inches tall. If you like a softer and cozier experience steer clear. If you run hot, however, definitely give these a try.
Best Crisp Percale Sheet Set: CB2
I’ll admit, as a soft bedding-lover, I wasn’t blown away by these sheets, but if you’re into crisp bedding, you need to snag these ASAP. They have a crinkly nature to them and are a bit thin, and although I personally wasn’t obsessed with its texture, it was nice to sink my face into, especially when I flipped my pillow over in the middle of the night. And, the set’s 400 thread count is very impressive. I opted for the white colorway, but many reviewers rave over the deep emerald shade that, according to one CB2 reviewer, is a “rich color that doesn’t lose luster in the wash.”
Other Percale Sheets We Love
Pact
I didn’t get a chance to test Pact’s popular cooling sheet set. However, based on on-site reviews, it’s definitely one to watch. Pact is another eco-conscious brand that uses organic cotton from fair trade companies. You can grab this set in six chic and earthy colorways. Other than softness, a major common thread amongst reviewers is the size. According to one verified buyer, the top sheet is long enough to tuck the bottom into your mattress and still cover your pillows.
Bedsure
Priced at just $40+, it can’t hurt to add this sheet set in your collection. Although the price point is low, according to reviews, the quality is high. It has a 4.3-star rating on Amazon, and many reviewers mention how soft, cooling and classic they are. They’re made from 100% Oeko-Tex certified cotton fabric and are available in nine colorways depending on your size selection. Reviewers’ main annoyance is that they do hold a stubborn wrinkle.
What To Look For In The Best Percale Sheets:
Here are a few things to consider when deciding on which cotton percale sheet set to buy.
Cotton percale sheets feature a wide price range because cotton ranges in quality. Are the sheets 100% cotton? Are they organic? Are the cotton fibers long-strand? Is it Egyptian cotton? Does it have certifications? The list goes on. Many of the sets on this list land at a $100+ price point because they feature organic, long-strand cotton that cools, breathes, and feels soft just like percale sheets should. That being said, you can find a worthwhile set for as low as $40 like Bedsure’s. But to be safe, target the $100 to $200 price range for a solid set that will last, and make sure the sheets have a solid return policy. If you go for over $200, it should deliver high-quality, luxe hotel threads like Parachute’s.
Many hot sleepers swear by percale sheets because of their crisp feel and breathable weave. Percale sometimes runs so crisp, that it actually deters folks from the fabric altogether. (Blends are a good option here.) A good percale sheet set knows how to balance the matte texture of the weave with soft threads. This is why so many covet high-end Egyptian cotton sheets — the fine threads and long strands provide a more supple feel. Overall, the set of sheets you choose should have a cooling, dry and practical feel rather than a lavish and cozy one like with silk or some bamboo sheets.
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