Percale: As mentioned above, a percale weave usually makes for a lightweight, airy, and cooling set of sheets. Most commonly seen in cotton bedding, the percale weave style is a pretty safe bet for hot sleepers. Sateen: Sateen, on the other hand, is almost like the counterpart to percale.
Percale is usually the best weave for cooling sheets
The two most popular weaves for cotton sheets are percale and sateen. Percale is lightweight, crisp and durable. Sateen is soft, smooth and has a lustrous sheen on the surface.
Percale sheets tend to be cool and crisp, and of the dozens of sets we've tried, L.L.Bean's 280-Thread-Count Pima Cotton Percale Sheet Set are our favorite. They're soft and breathable, yet more durable than others we've tested.
Best Thread Count for Cool Sheets
Buying a set of bed sheets with a high thread count may not be the best idea when it comes to breathability, because more threads result in a tighter weave and less airy construction. If keeping cool is your priority, look for low thread count sheets in the range of 180 to 280.
Cotton sheets are not only ideal for keeping you cool in the summer heat. They're also the best bed sheets for winter. Cotton has the unique quality of being cool in summer yet warm in winter and always breathable, for supreme comfort at night.
Several of the sleep experts I spoke to suggested linen sheets. According to Dr. Joshua Tal, a psychologist who specializes in sleep disorders, they are very breathable and “pick up cool air.” Oks says that since linen is made of a looser weave than, say, a cotton sheet with a high thread count, it traps less heat.
The difference between the two terms is that one refers to the actual material, that is, cotton. Percale is the style or design of weaving that makes the material strong.
Linen: This material retains less heat than cotton due to a looser weave. Percale: This closely woven cotton or polyester is cool to the touch. Eucalyptus fibers: Sheets in this material will naturally regulate temperature and be breathable. Microfiber: Microfiber is absorbent and wicks moisture away effectively.
Woven cotton or linen nightwear is ideal. Silk is especially good at helping you stay cool at night. Avoid nightwear made with synthetic fabrics – check the label if you're unsure. Cool down with a shower.
Egyptian cotton is more breathable, moisture-wicking and absorbent than normal cotton, which helps to regulate your body temperature, making it ideal for balmy summer nights, and all year round comfortable sleeping.
Put your sheets in the freezer.
Pop your sheets — or even just your fitted sheet or top sheet — into a resealable plastic bag and into the freezer. Put them on your bed right before bedtime, and you'll enjoy a cool start to the night.
Our analysis shows that polyester is good for keeping you cool compared to cotton or wool, but is not as efficient as silk, linen or leather for example. A cotton and polyester blend is actually better at keeping you cool than just polyester on its own based on the material's thermal coefficients.
You will do well with purchasing either of these fabrics for your sheets, but if you are looking for higher-quality sheet material, you may want to select Egyptian cotton. You will pay more for Egyptian cotton, but you will have a softer and more comfortable sheet to sleep on.
Chambray
Because this is cotton, it too will keep you cool in dry heat & humidity. What's The Benefit? Chambray often comes in a higher thread count, which means it's a finer weave & more breathable fabric. Stylist Tip: Chambray has a similar look to denim so you can get the look without feeling weighed down.
If you're a hot sleeper, you need sheets that are lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking to help you stay cool and dry. Bamboo is a great choice because it's naturally temperature-regulating and helps control moisture. Linen, cotton, and Tencel are also great options for hot sleepers.
Cooling pajamas should be breathable to help heat dissipate away from the body as you sleep. Cotton, Tencel, silk, and linen are all breathable fabrics. Polyester, a common material in pajamas, is not as breathable.
Things like alcohol, spicy foods, caffeine and smoking can be sweating triggers. Keep your bedroom cool and sleepwear light. Adjust the thermostat, use fans, open windows (if it's cold outside), wear breathable pajamas and use lightweight bedding.
You may think because percale sheets have a tighter weave that they are also warmer. However, due to the less thick yard used, Percale sheets will give you a cooler sleep experience. Percale sheets are better for those who sleep hot or live in warmer climates and will give you a crisp, cool sleep year round.
Cotton percales are more breathable and cooler-feeling than other sheets, and they're built to last. These tightly woven sheets tend to resist pilling, so they can withstand years of washing without compromising any of you bedtime comfort.
Seasonality: Cotton Percale Sheets are often favored in warmer climates or for summer bedding due to their breathability and crispness. Cotton Sheets can be versatile, but some weaves, like sateen, might be warmer, making them more suitable for cooler climates.
For hot sleepers who prefer the cooler side of things, consider bamboo or Tencel sheets, as they remain cool—not to mention, they're more eco-friendly. All in all, you can find extra-soft sheets no matter which material you choose—you just have to find what makes you comfortable.
Sateen sheets are more prone to heat retention than some alternatives. In winter, this may feel cozy to sleepers. Most individuals choose to use sateen sheets year-round, but especially hot sleepers may find them too warm.