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Cotton Sateen vs. Percale: What’s the Difference?

Why WakeUp chooses cotton sateen with a thread count of 300

The search for the perfect bedding often starts with the fabric. Because how something feels makes all the difference in how well you sleep. A common question is: What’s the difference between cotton sateen and percale? Both are high-quality cotton weaves, but the experience is completely different.

In this article, we’ll not only explain the difference between the two, but also why WakeUp chooses cotton sateen with a thread count of 300 — and why that’s great news for your sleep.

100% cotton, two very different experiences

Both percale and sateen are woven from 100% cotton. But that doesn’t mean they feel the same. The weave determines the structure of the fabric, the feel on your skin, the look, and the overall performance of your bedding.

In short:

  • Percale is crisp, breathable, and matte. It rustles slightly under the covers and has a dry hand feel.
  • Cotton sateen is soft, smooth, and subtly glossy. It feels luxurious and drapes beautifully.

Both options are natural, breathable, and durable. But the experience is different — and that comes down to the weaving technique.

What is percale?

A cool, matte fabric with a firm feel

Percale is woven in a simple one-over, one-under pattern. This creates a tight, matte fabric with a crisp touch. It tends to feel cooler and makes a slight rustling sound when you move — something some people enjoy, while others find it a little stiff.

A new percale duvet cover may feel slightly rigid at first. It does soften over time, but it generally stays less smooth and fluid than sateen-woven cotton.

Percale is sometimes chosen by those who prefer a more traditional, airy feel. But if you’re looking for softness and a more luxurious look, it may not be the best fit. It also wrinkles more easily, so your bed may not look as tidy unless you make it tightly every day.

Typical characteristics of percale:

  • Feels crisp and cool
  • Matte finish
  • Can feel stiff at first, softens over time
  • Wrinkles more than sateen

In warm climates or for people who sleep very hot, percale can be a practical option. Still, more and more people consciously choose a softer, more refined sleeping experience. That’s where cotton sateen comes in.

What is cotton sateen?

Soft, smooth, and subtly glossy

Cotton sateen is also made from 100% cotton, but the weave is different: usually four threads over, one under. This results in a denser, softer fabric with more yarn at the surface — which gives sateen its signature sheen and silky touch.

The benefits of cotton sateen at a glance:

  • Luxuriously soft and smooth
  • Drapes beautifully over the bed
  • Elegant look with a subtle shine
  • Less prone to wrinkling than percale
  • Remains soft even after many washes

Cotton sateen is ideal for anyone who loves a soft feel and a refined, well-dressed bedroom. It’s instantly comfortable — like slipping into hotel-quality sheets every night.

Why thread count matters

The perfect density for every night’s sleep

Thread count refers to the number of threads per square inch of fabric. A higher thread count usually means a denser weave, which affects softness, strength, and breathability.

One common myth: the higher, the better. But that’s not quite true. Extremely high thread counts can make the fabric too dense, which affects airflow and makes you overheat. That’s why WakeUp has chosen a thread count of 300. It strikes the perfect balance:

  • Soft and smooth
  • Light and breathable
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Comfortable in every season

With 300 thread count, you get lasting comfort without sacrificing freshness or quality — night after night.

Why WakeUp chooses cotton sateen with TC300

WakeUp stands for Luxury Basics: bedding that feels luxurious yet fits into everyday life. We combine premium materials with a minimalist aesthetic — and offer a collection that’s as practical as it is beautiful. That’s why we choose cotton sateen with a 300 thread count:

  • Comfort: velvety soft from the very first night
  • Climate control: breathable in summer, cosy in winter
  • Style: a refined glow that brings calm to your bedroom
  • Durability: keeps its beauty, wash after wash
  • Easy care: fewer wrinkles, easy to make up

We want you to look forward to bedtime every single day. And that starts with the right bedding.

What suits you best?

Still unsure whether to choose sateen or percale? Ask yourself:

  • Do you prefer a crisp, classic feel? Then percale might be your match.
  • Want something softer and more fluid? Go for cotton sateen.
  • Sleep warm? Both weaves are breathable.
  • Looking for fewer wrinkles and more elegance? Sateen is the way to go.

At WakeUp, we believe quality should be felt. That’s why we don’t overwhelm you with options — we offer a refined collection that simply works. Cotton sateen with TC300 is our ideal base: soft, timeless, and always in stock.

Sleep soft, stylish, and without the wait

At WakeUp, we keep it simple. We only offer bedding we’d use ourselves. No endless choices, no long lead times — just fast delivery and effortless comfort. Because sleeping well shouldn’t be complicated.

Our cotton sateen collection includes:

  • Fitted sheets in a range of sizes and depths
  • Duvet covers with bottle neck closures and matching pillowcases
  • Topper and split-topper fitted sheets with a perfect fit
  • Timeless colours to create calm in any bedroom

Feel the difference for yourself

Cotton sateen is not a marketing term.

It’s a conscious choice for softness, elegance, and simplicity. One you’ll feel every night as you slip under the covers. Experience the luxury of 100% cotton sateen with a 300 thread count — available in timeless colours, always in stock, and ready to bring peace to your bedroom.

WakeUp. Luxury Basics. Night after night.

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