Nap Pillowcase Single
Frequently Asked Questions
What fabric is the Nap Pillowcase made from, and why does it have a lower thread count than most luxury pillowcases?
The Nap Pillowcase is 100% extra-long staple cotton in a percale weave with a 225 thread count. Nap is woven using the Italian "quattro-quaranta" (4-by-40) construction: 40's single-strand yarn in both the warp and weft at a density of 40 threads per centimeter in each direction. This balanced, open weave is why thread count alone does not determine quality. The result is a sturdy, breathable fabric that gets noticeably softer with every wash, which is exactly why it has been MATTEO's best-selling hotel fabric for years.
What sizes does the Nap Pillowcase come in, and which size should I order for a Standard pillow?
The Nap Pillowcase 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 pillowcase, so we recommend ordering the Queen size for a Standard pillow insert. The pillowcase will extend slightly past the edge of the insert; you can tuck the excess in to create an envelope-style closure, or take it to a seamstress for a simple alteration.
What is the difference between a pillowcase and a pillow sham, and which should I use for sleeping?
A pillowcase loosely encases the pillow insert and is open on the side, making it easy to slip on and off. A sham is more fitted and uses some form of closure, such as a flap or zipper, to hold the pillow in place; shams are typically used for decorative pillows on a made bed. The Nap Pillowcase is designed for everyday sleeping use, with a clean 2-inch cuff hem that gives a finished appearance on a made bed without the structural rigidity of a sham.
Is the Nap Pillowcase good for sensitive skin or hot sleepers?
Yes. The percale weave and extra-long staple cotton construction produce a crisp, breathable surface that does not trap heat, making the Nap Pillowcase well-suited for warm sleepers. Because the fabric is garment-washed before it reaches you, the initial stiffness of a raw percale is already broken in; it continues to soften with each subsequent wash without pilling or thinning. The non-toxic dyes used in the garment-dyeing process mean no harsh chemical residues remain in the finished fabric.
How do I care for a garment-dyed Nap Pillowcase without fading the color?
Wash light and dark colors separately in a lukewarm cycle with a gentle detergent and a cool rinse; do not overload the machine, as this can stress the extra-long cotton fibers. Avoid chlorine bleach, alpha hydroxy acids, and benzoyl peroxide on garment-dyed pillowcases, as the reactive dyes are not resistant to these agents. Bleach may be used on white cotton pillowcases only. Tumble dry on low heat and remove the pillowcase promptly to reduce wrinkling, or line dry for the best result. You can learn more about MATTEO's garment-dyeing process here.
Why is Nap considered a hotel-quality fabric, and is it the same construction used in luxury hotels?
Nap is woven using the Italian quattro-quaranta structure, a construction historically favored by high-end hospitality properties because of its durability under frequent laundering and its ability to maintain a crisp, clean appearance over time. The balanced 40-by-40 weave produces a fabric with even tension throughout, which resists pilling and holds its shape wash after wash. Interior designers and hospitality buyers specify this construction precisely because longevity matters more than a high thread count on a label. The Nap Pillowcase is the same fabric MATTEO supplies to hotels, made available here as individual pillowcases for residential use.
These Nap Pillowcases are listed as clearance items. What does that mean for quality and returns?
The Nap Pillowcase Single clearance items are samples that may have visible variations, including off-color shades, minor thread irregularities, or faded edges consistent with sample production. Products purchased in the same color may differ slightly in tone due to dye-lot variation, which is an inherent characteristic of garment-dyeing. Items purchased at 80% off can be returned for store credit; a $10 restocking fee applies to all MATTEOX returns. The fabric construction and material specification, 100% extra-long staple cotton percale at 225 thread count, remain the same as the full-price Nap collection.
Can I mix and match Nap Pillowcases with other MATTEO sheet sets?
Yes. The Nap Pillowcase is part of MATTEO's Cotton Collection and coordinates directly with the Nap Sheet Set, which uses the same 100% extra-long staple cotton percale construction. Because all Nap pieces are garment-dyed in the same color palette, you can combine individual pillowcases with the fitted sheet, flat sheet, or duvet cover from the Nap line for a consistent finish. Note that garment-dyed items carry a +/- 10% shade variation between dye lots, so pieces purchased in separate orders may differ slightly in tone.