The Difference Between Sateen and Percale Bedding
Helping you understand the difference between sateen and percale bedding - and which weave is right for you.
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Sateen and percale are two different types of weave used in the production of cotton bedding, such as sheets and pillowcases. These weaves create fabrics with distinct textures and characteristics. Here are the main differences between sateen and percale weaves:
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Weave Structure:
- Sateen: Sateen weave has a four-over-one-under pattern, which means four threads are woven over one thread. This weave structure creates a smooth and lustrous surface on one side of the fabric, often referred to as the "right" side. The opposite side tends to be duller.
- Percale: Percale is woven in a one-over-one-under pattern, resulting in a balanced, closely woven fabric with a matte finish on both sides. This weave structure creates a crisp and cool feel.
- Sateen: Sateen weave has a four-over-one-under pattern, which means four threads are woven over one thread. This weave structure creates a smooth and lustrous surface on one side of the fabric, often referred to as the "right" side. The opposite side tends to be duller.
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Texture:
- Sateen: Sateen fabrics have a silky and smooth texture on the surface, making them feel soft and luxurious. They are known for their subtle sheen, akin to satin.
- Percale: Percale fabrics have a crisp and matte texture, giving them a clean and classic appearance. They are often described as feeling cool and breathable.
- Sateen: Sateen fabrics have a silky and smooth texture on the surface, making them feel soft and luxurious. They are known for their subtle sheen, akin to satin.
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Durability:
- Sateen: Sateen sheets tend to be less durable than percale sheets because of the weave's structure. The long floats on the surface make sateen sheets more susceptible to pilling and snags.
- Percale: Percale sheets are known for their durability. The tight, even weave makes them resistant to wear and tear, resulting in a longer lifespan.
- Sateen: Sateen sheets tend to be less durable than percale sheets because of the weave's structure. The long floats on the surface make sateen sheets more susceptible to pilling and snags.
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Temperature Regulation:
- Sateen: Sateen sheets are often warmer to sleep in compared to percale sheets. The smooth surface traps more heat, making them better suited for cooler climates or colder seasons.
- Percale: Percale sheets are known for their breathability and ability to wick moisture away from the body, making them a popular choice for hot sleepers and warm environments. Percale sheeting is what we recommend for summer in the Okanagan!
- Sateen: Sateen sheets are often warmer to sleep in compared to percale sheets. The smooth surface traps more heat, making them better suited for cooler climates or colder seasons.
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Maintenance:
- Sateen: Sateen sheets may require more care, as they can be more prone to wrinkles. They often benefit from a gentle wash and lower heat when drying to maintain their sheen.
- Percale: Percale sheets are easier to care for and tend to resist wrinkles better. They can typically be laundered with standard settings.
- Sateen: Sateen sheets may require more care, as they can be more prone to wrinkles. They often benefit from a gentle wash and lower heat when drying to maintain their sheen.
The biggest difference between sateen and percale weaves is the weave structure and the resulting texture of the fabric. Sateen has a smoother, shinier surface, while percale has a crisper, matte finish. Your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for texture, temperature regulation, and maintenance. To get you started check out St. Genève's Capri Sheets for sateen and Hotel Roma for percale.