Types of Cooling Pillowcases: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing the right type of pillowcase comes down to more than just fabric — the weave, construction, and intended use case all matter. Here’s a breakdown of the four main types, with honest tradeoffs for each.

At a Glance

Percale Cotton Pillowcases

Percale is the gold standard for hot sleepers. The crisp, one-over-one-under weave creates a breathable fabric that allows air to flow freely — unlike sateen’s denser construction.

Key benefits:

• Superior airflow and breathability
• Gets softer with every wash without losing its cool feel
• Durable — holds up to regular machine washing
• Available at every price point

Trade-offs:

• Wrinkles more easily than sateen
• Less silky-smooth feel; some people find the texture too crisp

Best thread count: 200–400 TC. Anything higher closes up the weave and reduces breathability.

→ Full percale guide →

Bamboo Pillowcases

Bamboo-derived pillowcases (usually bamboo viscose or bamboo rayon) have become increasingly popular with hot sleepers, particularly those who experience night sweats. The fabric is moisture-wicking, silky-smooth, and temperature-regulating.

Key benefits:

• Excellent moisture-wicking — great for night sweats
• Naturally antimicrobial
• Silky-soft feel that rivals silk at a fraction of the price
• More sustainable than many conventional fabrics

Trade-offs:

• “Bamboo” is a broad term — quality varies significantly by brand
• Requires gentler care than standard cotton (avoid high heat)
• Can pill if machine dried on high heat

→ Full bamboo guide →

Silk Pillowcases

Silk is naturally temperature-regulating — it adapts to your body temperature rather than trapping heat. It feels cool to the touch and maintains that feel throughout the night.

Key benefits:

• Naturally thermoregulating — neither hot nor cold
• Incredibly smooth — reduces friction on hair and skin
• Hypoallergenic
• Long-lasting if cared for properly

Trade-offs:

• Requires hand washing or delicate machine cycle
• Most expensive option
• Requires specific silk-safe detergent
• Quality varies widely — look for 19–25 momme weight

→ Full silk guide →

Sateen Cotton Pillowcases

Sateen gets lumped in with “cooling” options, but it’s worth being honest: sateen runs warmer than percale. The denser four-over-one-under weave creates a smooth, silky surface — but it traps more heat.

Key benefits:

• Very smooth and soft feel
• Less wrinkling than percale
• Durable

Trade-offs:

• Warmer than percale — not ideal for hot sleepers
• The smooth finish can feel too warm in summer
• Heavier feel overall

Sateen is better suited to sleepers who run cold or neutral and prioritize smooth feel over breathability.

→ Full sateen guide →

Which Type Should You Choose?

If you run hot: Start with percale cotton or bamboo. Both consistently outperform other types for hot sleepers, are easy to care for, and are available at a range of price points.

If you have night sweats: Bamboo is your best bet — its moisture-wicking properties are specifically well-suited to absorbing and dissipating sweat.

If you want luxury: Silk delivers an unmatched feel and natural temperature regulation, but requires more careful maintenance.

If you prioritize softness over cooling: Sateen may work, but be aware you’re trading breathability for smoothness.

→ See our top picks for each type →