Nap Pillowcase Single

The Nap Pillowcase is woven from 100% extra-long staple cotton in a percale weave with a 225 thread count. MATTEO uses the finest 40's single-strand yarn in both the warp and weft at a density of 40 threads per centimeter each direction, a construction the Italians call "quattro-quaranta" or "4-by-40." The result is a sturdy, balanced weave that starts with a crisp, lightly-starched finish and grows noticeably softer with every wash.

Yes. Nap is MATTEO's best-selling hotel fabric, chosen for its balanced percale weave and long-term durability rather than an inflated thread count. The "quattro-quaranta" construction gives the fabric the same even, resilient hand found in high-end hotel linens. It holds its structure wash after wash, making it well-suited for both hotel housekeeping rotations and long-term home use.

Thread count alone does not determine fabric quality, and Nap is clear evidence of that. The 225 thread count reflects the honest density of the "quattro-quaranta" weave, using 40's single-strand yarn rather than multi-ply twisted yarns that artificially inflate the count. A single-strand, long-staple cotton percale at 225 threads per centimeter outperforms many 600-count fabrics in breathability, durability, and the quality of softness that develops over time. For more context, see MATTEO's guide on garment-dyeing and fabric care.

The Nap Pillowcase Single is available in Queen (20 x 33 inches / 51 x 84 cm) and King (20 x 39 inches / 51 x 99 cm). MATTEO does not offer a Standard size; for a Standard pillow insert, the Queen pillowcase is the recommended option. It will extend slightly past the edge of the insert and can be tucked under to create an envelope closure, or taken to a seamstress for a simple alteration.

Pillowcases and shams both protect pillow inserts, but they are constructed differently. The Nap Pillowcase is open on one side, encloses the pillow loosely, and is finished with a 2-inch cuff hem. A sham is more fitted and uses a closure, such as a flap, zipper, or buttons, to keep the pillow in place. Pillowcases are the standard choice for sleeping; shams are typically used for decorative layering on a made bed.

Wash in a lukewarm cycle with a gentle detergent and a cool rinse, separating light and dark colors. Do not overload the machine, as heavy loads can stress 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 crisp finish, press while slightly damp on the Lightweight Cotton or Medium iron setting. Garment-dyed colorways should never be treated with bleach, chlorine, alpha hydroxy acids, or benzoyl peroxide, as these agents break down reactive dyes.

Yes. All garment-dyed Nap Pillowcases are dyed using non-toxic reactive dyes, consistent with MATTEO's artisanal garment-dyeing process. Because garment-dyeing is an art rather than a controlled science, MATTEO allows for a shade variation of plus or minus 10% between dye lots. This means two pieces ordered at different times in the same color may have slight tonal differences. You can read more about the process at matteola.com/garment-dyeing.

The Nap Pillowcase is a practical, lasting gift: 100% extra-long staple cotton percale that gets softer over time and holds up to years of use. Ordering a single pillowcase allows someone to mix colors or add to an existing Nap sheet set. For a complete luxury cotton bedding gift, the Nap Pillowcase pairs directly with the MATTEO Nap Fitted Sheet and Flat Sheet available on matteola.com.