Jersey vs Percale Sheets: Which Cotton Bedding Is Right for You?

If you've only ever slept on crisp, woven sheets, jersey bedding might be the best change you make to your bedroom this year. But is it right for you? Here's a simple, honest comparison of jersey and percale, the two cotton bedding types people ask us about most.

What is jersey bedding?

Jersey is a knitted fabric, made the same way as your favourite T-shirt. Because the cotton yarn is looped rather than woven, jersey has a natural stretch and a soft, relaxed feel from the very first night. At Cosey, all our jersey bedding is made from 100% cotton jersey.

What is percale?

Percale is a woven cotton fabric with a simple one-over, one-under weave. It feels cool, crisp and matte, a bit like a classic hotel sheet or a well-pressed shirt. It has no stretch.

Jersey vs percale at a glance

Who should choose jersey sheets?

• You never iron your bedding. Jersey's relaxed knit looks good straight from the wash, so a quick shake and it's on the bed.
• You love the feel of a soft T-shirt. If you reach for the same worn-in top every evening, jersey sheets give you that feeling all night.
• You want easy bed-making. The stretch in a jersey fitted sheet makes it easy to pull over the mattress corners and helps it stay snug.
• You like a cosy, relaxed bedroom. Jersey drapes softly, giving the bed an inviting, slept-in look rather than a starched one.

Who might prefer percale?

If you love the crisp, cool feel of a freshly pressed hotel bed and don't mind ironing, percale is a lovely choice. Many people keep both and switch with their mood or the season.

Is jersey bedding good for hot sleepers?

Cotton is a naturally breathable fibre, and 100% cotton jersey lets air move through the knit. Percale is often described as the cooler, crisper option, so if you sleep very hot you may want to try both. If you sleep comfortably but hate the stiffness of woven sheets, jersey is a great middle ground.

How to care for jersey bedding

• Always follow the care label on your bedding.
• Wash with similar colours so your bedding stays bright.
• Take it out promptly and give it a shake to keep it smooth. There's no need to iron.

Try jersey for yourself

Our 100% cotton jersey bedding sets come in Heather Grey, Warm Terracotta, Soft Blush and Fine Stripe, in every bed size from Single to Super King, and you can mix sizes for each piece. Prefer to start small? Try a pair of jersey pillowcases or a jersey duvet cover with a hidden zip.