Percale vs sateen
When choosing new bedding, one question often causes hesitation: percale or sateen - which is better? At Bedroommood, both are made from long-staple cotton. Both are soft, breathable, and loved by people who care about good sleep. But they couldn’t feel more different. And when you're standing between two beautiful sets of sheets, unsure which one to pick, the decision can feel surprisingly personal. It’s not just about thread counts or labels - it’s about how you want to feel when you climb into bed at the end of the day.
Percale has a crisp, matte finish. It feels fresh, light, and cool against the skin - perfect for warm nights, or for people who sleep hot year-round. It has that classic cotton texture, like a freshly ironed shirt, but softer. Sateen, on the other hand, is smooth and silky with a subtle sheen. It’s slightly warmer and drapes more closely to the body. Some love it for its cosy, cocoon-like feel - especially in colder months, or for those who prefer softness to structure.
So, which one to pick?
The challenge lies in knowing which one matches your sleep style. Do you want to feel cool and crisp, or soft and warm? Do you toss and turn, or sleep still? Do you love the feeling of freshly laundered cotton, or prefer something more luxurious and silky? Understanding the small but meaningful differences between percale and sateen can help you create a sleep space that truly supports the way you rest. However, both are made from the same high-quality, 100% long-staple cotton, but the difference lies in how they’re woven.
Percale is woven in a simple one-over-one-under pattern, giving it a crisp, matte finish. It feels cool to the touch and is known for its breathability. Percale is the go-to for warm sleepers, summer nights, or anyone who prefers a fresh, clean texture that gets better with every wash. It’s lightweight, airy, and relaxed - perfect for those who want a classic, no-fuss feel. It also has a naturally creased look, which adds to its charm. This creased look also contributes to cooling your body, those tiny creases create little air tunnels that help keep things cool all night. They create a natural air gap between the fabric and your skin, allowing better airflow and making it feel cooler to sleep in. No ironing needed here - just wash, dry, fold, and enjoy. It’s like sleeping in your favourite cotton shirt: comfortable, timeless, and always dependable.
Sateen, on the other hand, is woven with a three-over-one-under technique. This gives it a smoother surface, a slight sheen, and a denser, warmer feel. It drapes beautifully over the bed, hugs your body like a soft cocoon, and has a more luxurious, polished appearance. Sateen is perfect for cooler months, or for anyone who loves that silky touch against their skin. It feels a bit more refined - like slipping into something elegant at the end of a long day. Some people like to give it a quick iron to enhance its natural shine, though it’s completely optional. Its smooth texture can also help prevent sleep creases on the skin, making it a subtle choice for beauty sleep lovers.
No matter which side you’re on, percale or sateen, all Bedroommood bedding starts with the same thoughtful foundation. Both fabrics are made from 100% long-staple cotton, known for its softness, strength, and durability. This cotton feels gentle against the skin, resists pilling, and becomes even softer with every wash. Whether you prefer the crisp texture of percale or the smooth finish of sateen, you can trust that both fabrics will breathe well, regulate body temperature, and support a comfortable, healthy night’s sleep.
Every piece is OEKO-TEX® certified, which means it’s free from harmful chemicals and safe for even the most sensitive skin. Made in Lithuania by experienced tailors, the bedding is carefully sewn with attention to every detail. From hidden zippers that make changing your duvet cover fast and easy, to the envelope-style pillowcases that keep your pillows neatly in place - everything is designed to make your life simpler and your bed more beautiful.
Both percale and sateen collections are available in a carefully curated palette of timeless colours, selected by architects to suit every interior and every season. And when it comes to sustainability, Bedroommood takes it seriously. The packaging is made from leftover fabric, recycled or plant-based bags, so the only waste you’ll throw away is a cardboard box that naturally breaks down in a few months.
So which one should you choose? If you love that crisp, cool, fresh-bed feeling - percale is your match. If you lean toward softness, warmth, and a little touch of everyday luxury - sateen is the way to go. There’s no wrong answer. The best bedding is the one that makes you feel at home in your own bed. And no matter which you choose, you can trust that your sheets are crafted with care, designed to last, and made to help you sleep better, night after night.
