Materials

These two varieties of cotton are valued for their long staples, or fibers. Long staples are desirable because they are less likely to pill, hold the structure of the weave better, and overall lead to a softer, more durable sheet. If a fabric is made with short staple cotton, it is common for the staples to start to poke out over time, leading to a decrease in the softness and comfort.
Percale sheets (pronounced “per-kail”) are made with cotton. These have a plain weave — one yarn over, one yarn under — that creates a matte, crisp finish. These sheets get softer with each wash and are best for hot sleepers and warm weather. They aren’t wrinkle-resistant, so it’s best to remove them from the dryer immediately following the end of the cycle.
Silk sheets feel really smooth and luxurious against the skin. Silk bedding is made from the cocoons of silk spun by silkworms. As with other natural fibres, silk is breathable and wicks moisture away from your skin to help keep you cool as you sleep. Like linen, silk has anti-bacterial properties.

Bed Linen: Bed linen is an umbrella term that encompasses the entire collection of fabric-based bedding components. This includes the bed sheet, but also extends to pillowcases, duvet covers, and sometimes blankets or comforters. Bed linen represents the complete textile outfit of your bed.