Nap Flat Sheet
Frequently Asked Questions
What fabric is the Nap Flat Sheet made from?
The Nap Flat Sheet is 100% extra-long staple cotton in a percale weave, 225 thread count, garment-washed and dyed using non-toxic dyes. The weave follows the Italian "quattro-quaranta" or "4-by-40" construction: 40's single-strand yarn in both warp and weft, with a density of 40 threads per centimeter in each direction. The result is a balanced, sturdy weave with a crisp finish that grows softer with every wash.
Is 225 thread count enough for a high-quality percale sheet?
Yes. Thread count is not the primary measure of sheet quality in a percale weave. The Nap fabric uses 40's single-strand yarn at 40 threads per centimeter in both directions, a construction the Italians call "quattro-quaranta." That balanced density produces a durable, crisp hand that would be diluted, not improved, by inflating the thread count with multi-ply yarns. Nap is MATTEO's best-selling hotel fabric precisely because the spec is right, not high.
Why is the Nap fabric used in hotels?
The Nap percale is designed and manufactured by MATTEO in Los Angeles and has been the brand's best-selling hotel fabric for over a decade. Its "quattro-quaranta" construction produces a sturdy, balanced weave that holds up through repeated commercial laundering while maintaining a consistently crisp finish. The 100% extra-long staple cotton and non-toxic garment-washing process also contribute to its longevity, making it well-suited to both hotel and residential use.
What size Nap Flat Sheet should I order for a Cal King or Full bed?
For a Cal King bed, MATTEO recommends the King flat sheet, which measures 118 x 111 inches (300 x 282 cm). For a Full bed, the Queen flat sheet at 100 x 111 inches (254 x 282 cm) is the right fit. The Twin flat sheet measures 79 x 106 inches (201 x 269 cm). All sizes are finished with a 2-inch hem.
How do I care for the Nap Flat Sheet to keep it looking its best?
Wash in lukewarm water with a gentle detergent and a cool rinse, separating light and dark colors. Do not overload the machine, as this can damage the extra-long staple cotton fibers. Tumble dry on low heat and remove promptly to reduce wrinkling; line drying gives the best results. If you prefer a crisper look, press while slightly damp on the Lightweight Cotton or Medium iron setting. Avoid chlorine bleach, alpha hydroxy acids, and benzoyl peroxide on garment-dyed colors, as these agents break down the reactive dyes.
Will the Nap Flat Sheet get softer over time?
The Nap percale gets softer with every wash, while retaining its characteristic crisp hand. This is a function of the extra-long staple cotton fiber and the garment-washing process: the fabric has already been washed before it reaches you, so it starts in a broken-in state and continues to improve. It is a sheet that is meant to last for many years, not one that wears out as it softens.
Is the Nap Flat Sheet a good option for sensitive skin?
The Nap Flat Sheet is 100% extra-long staple cotton with no synthetic blends, and it is garment-washed and dyed exclusively with non-toxic dyes. There are no chemical finishes or whitening agents applied to the garment-dyed colors. For those who react to harsh dyes or synthetic materials, the Nap percale is a straightforward natural-fiber option. White and Off White colorways can be laundered with bleach if sanitization is a priority.
How does the Nap percale compare to a sateen weave for everyday use?
Percale and sateen differ in weave structure and hand. The Nap percale uses a one-over-one-under weave that produces a matte, crisp finish similar to a lightly starched dress shirt. Sateen uses a four-over-one-under construction, which gives a smoother, slightly lustrous surface. Percale is generally more breathable and holds its shape better over time, while sateen has a softer initial hand. For those who want a hotel-quality, breathable sheet that improves with age, the Nap percale is the right choice.