We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Home Products Bedding & Bath Product Reviews The 11 Best Percale Sheets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed These sheets are made for hot sleepers. By Melanie Fincher Melanie Fincher Melanie Fincher is a commerce editor with four years of experience writing product reviews and lifestyle content. She was the former SEO writer for Allrecipes, covering product reviews, cooking tutorials, and food news. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on June 18, 2024 Fact checked by Rich Scherr In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Final Verdict Our Testing Process How to Shop More to Consider FAQs Take Our Word for It What Is Real Simple Selects? Photo: Real Simple / Rachel Marek Percale bed sheets are perfect for hot sleepers because of their crisp texture and breathable construction that drapes gently over the body rather clinging to it. Percale doesn’t refer to a specific fabric but rather a weave that features a one-thread-over, one-thread-under pattern. That said, it’s most often produced from cotton. To come up with our recommendations, we tested 52 percale sheets in our Des Moines lab, evaluating them based on quality, texture, breathability, durability, and value. After initial testing, we assessed some of the top-performing options in real-world conditions over a six-month period. For expert tips and insight on what to look for in percale sheets, we spoke to Jeffrey Kambak, president of Yunus Textiles Mills Limited and vice president of the Home Fashion Products Association, and textile expert Deborah Young. Our Top Picks Best Overall : Lands' End Premium Supima Cotton Percale Sheet Set at Landsend.com $34 Jump to Review Best Budget: Quince Classic Organic Percale Sheet Set at Onequince.com $80 Jump to Review Best Splurge : Pom Pom at Home Cotton Percale Sheet Set at Pompomathome.com Jump to Review Best Organic : Pact Cool-Air Percale Sheet Set at Wearpact.com Jump to Review Best Deep Pocket: Casaluna Washed Supima Percale Sheet Set at Target Jump to Review Best Cooling : Parachute Percale Sheet Set at Parachute $259 Jump to Review Best Heavy : West Elm Organic Percale Sheet Set at Amazon $199 Jump to Review Softest : Nordstrom at Home Percale Sheet Set at Nordstrom $119 Jump to Review Best Patterned: Feather & Stitch Percale Weave Bedding Set at Amazon $47 Jump to Review Most Durable : Saatva Percale Sheet Set at Saatva $205 Jump to Review Best Overall Lands' End Premium Supima Cotton Percale Sheet Set PHOTO: Lands' End $34 at Landsend.com What Stands Out They’re made from premium American-grown Supima cotton. What Could Be Improved They lack any certifications. These percale sheets from Lands’ End received high marks across the board in our testing, earning them the title of our best overall percale sheets. They’re made from Supima cotton—a type of premium cotton grown exclusively in the western and southwestern U.S. and guaranteed to be extra-long-staple—so they boast the highest quality materials on the market. After trying the sheets ourselves, we can attest to their well-made construction. Unlike some of the other percale sheets we evaluated, these weren't overly stiff or scratchy. The 300 thread count falls right in the optimal range for percale, which makes the sheets breathable without sacrificing softness or durability. The sheets don’t trap hot air but instead allow for air to flow underneath their gentle slope. While we wouldn't necessarily recommend these as cooling sheets, their medium weight makes them ideal for couples with different sleeping preferences or for all-season use. There was no damage to the sheets post wash, and they came out of the dryer with very few wrinkles. These sheets grew even softer after one month of use and laundering, as percale is supposed to do with each wash. Given their performance in our testing and high-quality materials, we’re convinced these sheets will last for years. Material: Supima cotton | Thread Count: 300 | Pocket: 16 inches | Size Range: Twin–California king | Certifications: N/A | Return Policy: 90 days Real Simple / Dera Burreson Best Budget Quince Classic Organic Percale Sheet Set PHOTO: Quince $80 at Onequince.com What Stands Out The lightweight design is ideal for the hot sleepers. What Could Be Improved The material is a bit rough, and they aren't super durable. While bedding often feels like an investment, Quince's Classic Organic Percale Sheet Set proves that high-quality sheets don't have to break the bank. In our testing, these sheets stood out for their breathability. Their lightweight feel made them ideal for hot sleepers, reducing night sweats and hot flashes throughout the night. We found the texture to be pretty stiff, though—while these aren't the roughest sheets we've tried, they certainly aren't the softest. That said, we recommend this option for those seeking a crisper, more structured option. Although they didn't get softer in the wash, the sheets held up fairly well over time. After weeks of use and frequent laundering, we only observed slight wear by the top stitches and minor fading (but due to the sheets' light color, we could hardly notice). We also observed mixed results during the stain test: The foundation came out completely, but the coffee and oil stains proved to be a bit more stubborn. These may not be the most durable sheets but, given their lower price tag, we don't consider that to be a deal breaker. Available in 13 colors including two prints, these sheets provide the perfect opportunity to spice up your space. You can choose between a regular sheet set or a less-expensive fitted sheet set, depending on your preferences. If you're hesitant to purchase, the brand's 365-day return policy should give you peace of mind. Material: Organic cotton | Thread Count: 270 | Pocket: 16 inches | Size Range: Twin–California king | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex | Return Policy: 365 days Best Splurge Pom Pom at Home Cotton Percale Sheet Set PHOTO: Pom Pom at Home View on Pompomathome.com What Stands Out These sheets are as soft as percale comes. What Could Be Improved They take a bit of time to soften. Percale can get a bad rap for being scratchy or stiff, but the Pom Pom at Home Cotton Percale Sheet Set puts this reputation to bed. These 300-thread-count sheets are as soft as you’ll find for percale, with an extremely smooth feel. They still have the signature crisp, matte feel that we know and love but with a softer, airier finish. When we dropped a water droplet on the fabric, it expanded very quickly, which indicates its moisture-wicking abilities. After washing, these sheets didn’t sustain any damage or significant shrinkage, nor did they show any signs of wear after we ran a sheet of sandpaper over the top sheet 25 times. The fitted sheet fit snug to the mattress, never budging when we tossed and turned in it. The foundation stain we applied to it was about 50% lighter after we treated it with a stain remover and washed it, but since it’s white, you can just use bleach. (Keep in mind that white is the only color it comes in, though.) After three months of testing, we can confirm that these sheets become softer with time, though they are still undeniably crisp. While we wish they softened a bit more quickly, people who prefer the airy, neat feel of crisp sheets will love this selection. Plus, they retained their quality without any shrinking or damage. Overall, these sheets are the perfect companion for warm summer nights when you want a breezy, fresh percale. For those willing to splurge on high-end, crisp sheets, these are a no brainer. Material: Cotton | Thread Count: 300 | Pocket: 15 inches | Size Range: Twin–California king | Certifications: N/A | Return Policy: 30 days Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Best Organic Pact Cool-Air Percale Sheet Set PHOTO: Pact View on Wearpact.com What Stands Out These sheets have a 60-day trial period. What Could Be Improved They became noticeably more wrinkled after washing. Percale sheets are always a great choice for hot sleepers because they breathe well and gently drape over the body, as opposed to clinging to it. But those who suffer from night sweats need sheets that also dry quickly and provide a cooling effect, like these Cool-Air percale sheets from Pact. The droplet of water we applied to the sheet immediately expanded, a testament to the sheets' moisture-wicking properties. What’s more, they’re made from Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified organic cotton. The quality of the material and construction was immediately apparent, as these sheets had no loose threading or uneven stitching before or after washing. They have a soft hand feel that remained just as soft after washing, and they proved to be surprisingly durable in our testing. When we ran sandpaper over a section of the fabric 25 times, there was no change in texture, nor did any of the color transfer when we rubbed the sheet against a white cloth. Both the oil and coffee stains were removed with one wash, although the foundation was still visible. (We found this to be the case with many sheets we tested, so it seems to be a tough stain to launder in general.) Throughout six months of use, the sheets remained stain free and high quality, even with a dog who likes to jump up on the bed. The sheets have a crisp, button-down-like feel—though they became noticeably more wrinkled after washing—and the fitted sheet comes with a wide elastic band that secures tightly to the mattress, so you won't have to worry about it shifting as you toss and turn. While the pillowcases and fitted sheet became slightly softer over time, the top sheet remained stubbornly crinkled. During our long-term tests, the top sheet didn’t lay flat and frequently slipped off the bed—eventually we simply stopped using it. Despite this drawback, we still enjoyed the remainder of the sheet set and would recommend it to anyone who doesn’t mind some wrinkles. Material: Organic cotton | Thread Count: 300 | Pocket: 15 inches | Size Range: Twin–California king | Certifications: GOTS | Return Policy: 60 days Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Best Deep Pocket Casaluna Washed Supima Percale Sheet Set PHOTO: Target View on Target $69 at Target What Stands Out The fitted sheet fits mattresses up to 18 inches tall and comes with corner straps to keep it in place. What Could Be Improved Stains did not come out of the fabric well. We were amazed by the quality of these sheets from Casaluna, a Target-owned brand. Crafted from Supima cotton, these sheets boast impressive comfort and durability. They come prewashed for softness and retained their texture throughout the testing period, shrinking by just 1% in length and width. The 250 thread count falls right in the optimal range for hot sleepers, allowing for ample airflow without compromising softness. Because we tested these sheets through several seasons, we can attest that they would be comfortable for year-round use—they are not too warm or too cool, making them especially advantageous in summer months. The fitted sheet has a wide elastic band and an additional strap at each corner to hold it tight to the mattress, as well as tags labeling the top and bottom. Plus, it has the deepest pockets of any sheets on our list, able to accommodate mattresses up to 18 inches tall. In our testing, they fit securely to a 15-inch mattress topped with a cooling mattress topper, and after tossing and turning, it was clear they weren’t going anywhere. Even after six months, the sheets have retained the same fit. They did get quite wrinkly after the first wash, though, and the stains did not come out particularly well, with coffee being the exception. Unfortunately, sweat stains from regular, long-term use didn't come out in the wash, either. When we rubbed the sheets with a piece of sandpaper 25 times, the abraded area faded in color, although it didn’t pill or wear down. These sheets come with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification, meaning they've been tested for harmful substances. Given the quality of the materials, we think these sheets are reasonably priced, and Target's generous 365-day return policy only adds to their value—though, given the results of our long-term tests, you’ll probably want to keep these sheets for years to come. Material: Supima cotton | Thread Count: 250 | Pocket: 18 inches | Size Range: Twin/twin XL–California king | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex | Return Policy: 365 days Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Best Cooling Parachute Percale Sheet Set PHOTO: Parachute $259 at Parachute $249 at Zola What Stands Out These sheets have a light, airy feel. What Could Be Improved Adding a top sheet costs an additional $100. These editor-loved, Egyptian cotton sheets from Parachute are comparable to a button-down shirt in terms of texture, and we love sleeping on them so much that they go right back on the bed after each wash. Prior to use, we immediately noticed that the fabric was cool to the touch, and after lying beneath them for five minutes, they maintained their temperature. Thanks to their lightweight, airy feel, we think these are some of the best cooling sheets available. After three months of use, we have no complaints—these sheets remained soft post wash, with no visible signs of wear and tear, and dried notably fast, even on the low setting. They come in eight different earth-inspired colors, including sand, clay, moss, and more. We also like that the pillowcases come with an envelope closure to keep the inner pillow neatly tucked out of sight. Overall, we think the price is fair considering the quality and materials. However, flat sheets are not included in the base price—so if you're pro top sheet, you'll have to add one to your set for an additional fee. We also wish they came with tags labeling the long and short sides. Material: Egyptian cotton | Thread Count: Not listed | Pocket: 16 inches | Size Range: Twin–California king | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex | Return Policy: 60 days Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Best Heavy West Elm Organic Percale Sheet Set PHOTO: West Elm $199 at Amazon $139 at West Elm What Stands Out The higher thread count makes these sheets ideal for year-round use. What Could Be Improved They abraded fairly easily. If you like the crisp, cool feel of percale but want something with more heft for year-round use, look for sheets with a higher thread count, such as this 400-thread-count sheet set from West Elm. We found them to be both breathable and moisture wicking, though they don't necessarily have the cool-to-the-touch sensation of some others we tested. Despite this, we think this set is also ideal for hot sleepers—throughout testing, we found their cooling, crisp feel to be especially breathable during the summer months. The GOTS-certified organic cotton shrunk by just 4% post wash, although it was noticeably more wrinkled, especially around the hems. All the stains came out well and the corners still fit snug to the mattress. However, rubbing a piece of sandpaper over a portion of the sheets 25 times did cause a small hole to form. After six months of use, these sheets sustained no lasting stains (even notoriously stubborn makeup), holes, rips, or loose threads. They continued to fit well on the bed, endured no significant shrinkage, and retained their luxe, crisp texture. Overall, these sheets give the impression of luxury for less, and their higher thread count makes them ideal for all-season use or for couples who sleep at different temperatures. That said, they aren't available in twin sizes, and we wish they came in more color options than just white and gray. Material: Organic Cotton | Thread Count: 400 | Pocket: 16 inches | Size Range: Full–California king | Certifications: GOTS | Return Policy: 30 days Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Softest Nordstrom at Home Percale Sheet Set PHOTO: Nordstrom $119 at Nordstrom View on Nordstromrack.com What Stands Out They’re among the softest we tested and are priced very reasonably. What Could Be Improved They aren’t as moisture-wicking or stain-resistant as other sheets on our list. These sheets from Nordstrom’s in-house brand stood out for their exceptionally soft feel and the fact that they only shrank by 1% after our first wash. And, even after six months of use and several washes, they remained just as cozy. Water was slow to expand when applied to these sheets, which indicates they’re not as moisture wicking as others on our list. However, they come with a 200 thread count, promoting lots of airflow, and they kept us surprisingly cool throughout the night. In fact, these sheets were breathable enough to keep us cool during a scorching Los Angeles summer. The coffee stain came out completely in the wash, although the oil and foundation stains proved to be a bit more stubborn. When we ran sandpaper over a portion of the fabric, it didn’t sustain any damage aside from some slight discoloration, though we did notice one loose thread on our pillowcase after six months of real-world testing. Other than that small flaw, the sheets endured no tears, holes, or major fading. While the material did become a bit rougher over time, we didn't find it any less comfortable. These sheets also come Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified and are available in four different neutral colors, making them a high-quality, versatile choice. Material: Cotton | Thread Count: 200 | Pocket: 16 inches | Size Range: Queen and king | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex | Return Policy: No time limit Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Best Patterned Feather & Stitch Percale Weave Bedding Set PHOTO: Amazon $47 at Amazon View on Featherstitchny.com What Stands Out It’s the only sheet set we recommend that offers both solid and patterned options. What Could Be Improved The fabric did not stand up to repeated abrasion in our testing, so it’s not the most durable. Patterned bedding allows you to pick up accent colors from the room and incorporate color in a subtle yet noticeable way. This set from Feather & Stitch is available in a variety of solid colors and prints, including both floral and geometric patterns. We found these sheets to be crisp, breathable, and quick to absorb moisture. They’re medium weight, with a thread count of 300. We did notice some loose and entangled threads along the seam, but these were easy enough to trim. After washing, the sheets shrank by 4% in length and 2% in width. The texture remained mostly the same post wash, although they became a bit more wrinkled by comparison. We noticed some slight color fading after the first wash, but after months of continued use, it didn’t fade any further. These sheets also lost some of their sheen and became duller over time, but while we wish they maintained their brand-new look and feel, some wear is inevitable after months of use. The sheets come with 16-inch pockets, as well as tags labeling the top, bottom, and sides. The pillow cases also come with envelope closures, too. Where these sheets did not perform as well was in our durability testing. After 25 swaths with sandpaper, several holes appeared in the fabric. Despite this lackluster performance during our lab tests, the sheets didn’t sustain any holes, rips, or loose threads after six months of use. While we wish they sustained their texture and vivid colors, given their reasonable price, we still think they’re worth purchasing. Material: Cotton | Thread Count: 300 | Pocket: 16 inches | Size Range: Twin-king | Certifications: Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex | Return Policy: 30 days Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Most Durable Saatva Percale Sheet Set PHOTO: Saatva $205 at Saatva What Stands Out They wash extremely well and come with a 45-day sleep trial. What Could Be Improved They’re only available in three neutral colors. After testing 52 percale sheet sets, we can attest that these sheets from Saatva are some of the plushest, coziest we've tried. They arrived in great condition, with not a loose thread in sight. The texture felt smooth and soft, making them standout from other sets on our list. The percale weave and 200 thread count enhance the cotton's natural breathability. While they seemed to hold in a bit more heat than other sheets we've tested, we still found them to be cool and breathable. That said, we recommend them more for cold sleepers or those who sleep with the air conditioning on. The sheets came out of the dryer with relatively few wrinkles and no damage or shrinking. They have a high-quality feel to them, making them a worthy investment. Plus, the brand offers a 45-day sleep trial and one-year warranty (which you’ll receive if you decide to keep the sheets after the trial ends). Our one complaint is that they only come in three neutral colors, but if you don't mind basic bedding, these are a great choice. Material: Cotton | Thread Count: 200 | Pocket: 16 inches | Size Range: Twin–split king | Certifications: N/A | Return Policy: 45 days Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Dera Burreson Best Textured Coyuchi Organic Crinkled Percale Sheets PHOTO: Coyuchi $168 at Amazon $168 at Nordstrom $148 at Wayfair What Stands Out The natural crinkle gives them a relaxed, lived-in appearance. What Could Be Improved They shrank a fair amount after the first wash. Coyuchi’s 100% organic cotton sheets are GOTS-certified and treated with a plant-based finishing process, so you know they're safe on the skin. They have a natural crinkle that gives them a more relaxed, lived-in appearance, similar to linen—although people who are bothered by wrinkles may want to steer clear. The double-stitched seam gives the impression of luxury, and they come in a wide variety of nature-inspired colors, including undyed options for those seeking the most natural option. In terms of breathability, the sheets have a 180 thread count, which allows for plenty of air movement. We found them to have a comfortably heavy while remaining breathable. After months of testing, we can confirm that these sheets are excellent for hot sleepers. We also found these organic sheets to hold up fairly well in the washer and dryer—aside from some shrinkage, they maintained their nice texture. Like other percale sheets, these sheets are soft but not silky, and they'll continue to get softer after each wash. After six months of use, these sheets are just as crisp and comfortable as they were on day one. They've endured no wear and tear, with zero discoloration, snags, or tears. On laundry days, we immediately rush to get these sheets back on our bed because we love them so much. Material: Organic cotton | Thread Count: 180 | Pocket: 15 inches | Size Range: Twin–California king | Certifications: GOTS, Fair Trade, Made Safe | Return Policy: 30 days Real Simple / Dera Burreson Real Simple / Sammy Wordehoff Real Simple / Sammy Wordehoff Real Simple / Sammy Wordehoff Real Simple / Sammy Wordehoff Final Verdict Our top pick is the Lands’ End Premium Supima Cotton Percale Bed Sheet Set. We like that it's made from Supima cotton, which is American-grown, extra-long-staple cotton that is considered by some to be the best on the market. We found these sheets to be soft and not overly stiff or scratchy like some percale sheets can be. They didn’t trap hot air underneath either, but gently draped over us as we slept, allowing for lots of air movement. For a budget-friendly option, the Quince Classic Organic Percale Sheet Set is lightweight and breathable enough for even the hottest summer nights. And given the price, you can more easily purchase multiple sets to outfit your whole home. Our Testing Process We tested 52 different percale sheets in our lab and brought the top performers home for long-term testing. In our lab tests, we began by visually inspecting each sheet to assess its quality, looking for any loose or uneven threads, imperfections in the dye or pattern, or other flaws. We also measured each sheet and compared its dimensions to those provided by the manufacturer. We then applied a coffee, oil, and foundation stain to each sheet and laundered it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Afterwards, we rated the durability of the sheets based on whether there was any damage or shrinkage post-wash and noted how well the stains came out. To test the moisture-wicking ability of the sheets, we held the fabric taut and applied a drop of water to each sheet, noting how the water moves or expands over the fabric (the quicker it expands over a large area, the quicker it can dry and provide a cooling effect). For sheets any color other than white, we rubbed them over a piece of white test fabric and noted any color transfer that occurred. We repeated this process after dampening the sheets, too. Next, we used the sheets to make the bed in our lab—including the fitted sheet, flat sheet (when applicable), and pillowcases—evaluating how secure they felt to the bed and how easy they were to slide over the mattress or pillows. During this portion of the testing, we also evaluated the texture of the sheets, like whether they felt smooth, soft, crisp, or scratchy—bearing in mind that percale is meant to have a crisp, matte-like finish (not a silky or satin-like finish). We also tossed from side to side to mimic a restless sleeper and noted whether the fitted sheet stayed secure to the mattress. Once the bed was made, we laid on the sheets for five minutes to assess their breathability, wearing short-sleeved shirts so we could experience the feel of the sheets on bare skin. We took note of any immediate cooling sensation, and after five minutes, recorded whether the sheets felt warmer or maintained any cooling sensation. To further test for durability, we ran a piece of sandpaper over a 5-inch section of the sheet 25 times and compared the quality of the abraded area against the area that had not been sanded. Once testing was complete, we scored the overall value of each sheet based on price and performance. We brought home the top-performing sheet sets and provided feedback as to how well they held up over time. After testing the sheets over three and six months at home, we've updated our recommendations with the latest insights. Real Simple / Dera Burreson How to Shop for Percale Sheets Like a Pro Type of Cotton Percale is a type of weave—not a fabric. You can find percale sheets made from fabrics other than cotton, such as polyester or viscose from bamboo, but the vast majority are cotton sheets. However, not all cotton is the same. Here are a few of the most common terms you may hear thrown around about the types of cotton used in bed sheets. Long-Staple Cotton vs. Extra-Long-Staple Cotton: Most bedding is going to be made with long- or extra-long-staple cotton (short-staple cotton is generally reserved for items such as clothing, cotton pads, etc.). Long-staple cotton, by definition, has fibers that measure about 1.25 inches in length, creating a softer, more durable fabric. Extra-long-staple (ELS) cotton has fibers that measure about 2 inches in length, making it more desirable. The three most sought-after types of ELS cotton are Egyptian, Pima, and Supima (the latter is a trademarked brand of American-grown Pima cotton). “The best cotton for sheets is Supima cotton,” says Kambak. “Supima cotton is guaranteed to be grown in the U.S.; it’s also guaranteed to be ELS, which is an extra-long staple. Some Egyptian cotton is ELS, but not all.” The Lands’ End Premium Supima Cotton Percale Bed Sheet Set, our best overall pick, is one of only two on our list made from Supima cotton, the other being the Casaluna Washed Supima Percale Sheet Set. Organic Cotton: Many sheets are labeled “organic,” but this only means they were made with some percentage of organically grown cotton. And just because the cotton was organically grown doesn’t mean the sheets themselves are organic. For 100% cotton bed sheets sourced and processed without pesticides or herbicides, look for the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification—more on this below. Cotton Blends: Most percale sheets are made with 100% cotton, although you can find some cotton-synthetic fiber blends (one of the most common pairs is cotton and polyester). This can help to bring down the cost of the sheets, but at the sacrifice of the durability and feel. All of the percale sheets on our list are made with 100% cotton. Real Simple / Dera Burreson Thread Count It’s a common misconception that thread count is an indication of quality, but this is not the case. Thread count is simply an indication of the number of threads in a square inch of fabric.“The higher the thread count, the more densely packed the yarns are, and the sheet tends to get really heavy and not breathe very well. You want some air to be able to pass through,” says Kambak, who suggests a thread count of 200-250 for percale: “I am a fan of lower thread count percales because they do what percale is supposed to do, which is breathe.” Young agrees: “A hot sleeper wants [sheets] to be more permeable with more airflow, so a lower count will work better for them.” The percale sheets on our list range from 180 to 400 thread count. According to Kambak, the quality of the cotton and how well the company finishes the material are more important factors than thread count. Pocket Depth As with all bed sheets, you’ll need to consider the pocket depth when purchasing percale sheets. Pocket depth refers to the maximum mattress height a fitted sheet can accommodate. A 12-inch pocket depth will technically fit a 12-inch mattress, but we suggest purchasing a fitted sheet with a pocket depth that’s at least two inches more than your mattress height, to be sure it’ll stay put throughout the night. And remember to include your mattress topper when you measure your mattress height. We found the Casaluna Washed Supima Percale Sheet Set to be best for extra-thick mattresses, as it can fit mattresses up to 18 inches tall. Product Certifications When bed sheets are made, they are processed with chemicals, which can leave residual harmful substances on your sheets. Look for the Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex label, which ensures that the product has been tested and proven safe from these substances. For organic bedding, the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification is the best way to verify that sheets are 100% organic, as many manufacturers make unfounded organic claims. Return Policy Sheets are a deeply personal choice and can have a profound impact on the quality of your sleep, which is why many companies offer trial periods so you can actually sleep on their bedding. These can range from 30 to 100 days, and you can usually return the sheets for a full refund during this period. Some sheets, like the Quince Classic Organic Percale Sheet Set, Best Budget pick, have a 365-day return policy. More Percale Sheets to Consider Lacoste Cotton Percale Sheet Set:These 220-thread-count sheets are very breathable and have a crisp, smooth hand feel. However, they had some loose threading that made us unsure of their longevity. Crane & Canopy Bright White Percale Sheet Set: With a 400 thread count, these sheets are heavier and great for when you want more insulation during the cooler months (though they remain breathable during the warm months, too). Made from extra-long-staple Egyptian cotton, we found these sheets to be soft and durable. However, they don’t come at a very accessible price point, nor do they feature a trial period. And keep in mind they’re only available in white. West Elm Organic Washed Cotton Percale Sheet Set: This is another great organic option for the price, and the 200 thread count makes the sheets breathable and cool to the touch. Plus, they became even softer after the first wash. However, we found the pillowcases a bit small, and wish there was more fabric or an envelope closure. Real Simple / Dera Burreson Questions You Might Ask What is percale? Percale is a type of weave that uses a one-thread-over, one-thread-under pattern. The resulting sheet has a crisp, matte finish that's cool-to-the-touch and highly breathable. What's the difference between percale and sateen? Percale and sateen are the two most common weaves for bed sheets. While a percale weave uses a one-thread-over, one-thread-under pattern, in a sateen weave, “three or four yarns will go over the top of one,” says Kambak. “So [sateen] is a softer fabric, but doesn’t breathe as well, and it’s also not as durable.” Percale also tends to drape the body, as opposed to sateen, which tends to cling to or lie heavier on the body. Percale sheets create a gentle slope that allows for more air movement underneath and “a more gentle sleeping experience,” according to Kambak. Sateen sheets also have more of a sheen and a silk-like texture, as opposed to the crisp, matte feel of percale. How do you wash percale sheets? Always refer to the manufacturer’s specific care instructions, but in general, you can wash percale sheets in cold or warm water with a mild detergent and dry them on low heat. Remove them from the dryer immediately to prevent wrinkles. Young suggests using a fabric softener every third wash to soften, reduce static, and deodorize. Overusing fabric softener and bleach can put a strain on the fibers over time. Take Our Word for It This article was written by Melanie Fincher, associate commerce editor for Real Simple with four years of experience writing product reviews and lifestyle content, and updated by Jamie Fischer, a commerce writer for Real Simple. To compile this list, we tested 52 percale sheets and evaluated them based on quality, texture, breathability, durability, and value. For tips on what to consider when shopping for percale sheets, we spoke to Jeffrey Kambak, president of Yunus Textiles Mills Limited and vice president of the Home Fashion Products Association, as well as Deborah Young, a textile expert. What Is Real Simple Selects? Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn't an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company. Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.