Organic Percale Sheet Reviews: Smooth, Crisp and Cooling

If you suffer from allergies, or your lifestyle choices dictate a more natural approach to the products you buy, organic options probably top your list of purchases. The word organic can be loosely used, but a better understanding of what the label organic means in reference to fabrics, and how it relates to the bedding you sleep in, can be a game changer in your comfort.

When a soft, crisp sheet is what you want to crawl into bed with, percale is the weave you want. Percale sheets have long been popular for their comfort, and if you are unaware of this type of material, you need look no further. The best organic percale sheets are explained and reviewed below to help you explore your own organic comfort needs.

Organic Percale Sheet Reviews

Organic Fibers Explained

As mentioned above, the term organic can be loosely applied to many products, but unless it is actually labeled through a certification process it may not be organic at all. The term helps define the way natural fibers are grown, processed, and even used. Certified organic materials should always be grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, and are unmodified in any way. It also cannot be harvested or processed using machinery that has been contaminated by non-organic products.

Non-certified organics can be sold under the label organic, but without certification, the buyer cannot know how much, if any, of the materials, are truly free from modification. In order to be certified, an application, inspection, and rigorous testing must first take place.

There is more than one way to certify material as organic. Worldwide recognition is gained through the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification process that requires you to meet the highest standards of organic labeling in the world. In the US one can go through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as well, which also recognizes GOTS certification. Many times organic labels in the states may include both these certifications. Without either of these labels in place, you cannot be sure the product is truly organic.

– USDA Certification

USDA certification can be applied to both the producer of or seller of, organic products. For something to become certified it needs to meet the requirements of ensuring that no non-approved synthetic substances are in contact with the organic product. One this is in compliance, the application and subsequent inspection can begin. This can take years, and once certified becomes a lifelong process to stay in compliance and certified.

– Application

The process begins with being in compliance with synthetics through the certification of the National Organic Program (NOP) via a NOP agent. These agents provide you with the information you need to meet regulations and standards, after which you can apply for organic certification inspection. A fee is also associated with this.

– Inspection

Once an application is processed and selected an inspection will take place to ensure its validity. This includes an exit interview which may include concerns from the agent to bring the process into better compliance or discuss what needs to be changed or fixed.

– Certification

Prior to final certification, the entire process will be reviewed again to ensure nothing was overlooked. When no concerns are presents, and all fees are paid – certification is granted. Minor problems may be addressed to be fixed within certain time frames without disrupting the certification. More serious problems may hold the entire process up until a new inspection can occur.

– GOTS Certification

The GOTS certification process is similar to what the USDA requires. GOTS does define organic as any materials that are at a minimum of 95% organic and ‘made with organic’ labels at a minimum of 70%. This does mean that any GOTS label may mean there is not a 100% organic material present- usually defined by the process it may have gone through (such as being cut by scissors that first cut a synthetic) this is usually minimal overall and does not affect quality.

Gots certification also requires a yearly recertification fee, although no new inspection is needed. USDA does not require this and is valid forever. GOTS is accepted through most of the world as a standard for organic products.

What is Percale?

Percale refers to the type of weave fabric is used within. It is considered a plain weave fabric and is simple in nature in that the weft (threads that run width-wise) and warp (threads that run lengthwise) cross over and under each other one at a time. These are tightly woven, creating a smooth, fine textured finish. Many people prefer percale cloth since it is considered ‘crisp’ and holds up well under wash and wear. As a bed sheet, they are considered cool and comforting, and provide a clean, well-made look.

Why Organic is an Excellent Option

If you, or someone you love, suffer from sensitivities or allergies, organic can be an excellent option to help alleviate issues that synthetics may cause. Many conventional fabrics are treated with chemicals as well when processed for colorfastness, cleaners, and flame retardants. This can affect sensitive skin or even cause respiratory issues.

For comfort, organic is considered a more breathable material overall since it uses all natural fibers. This allows heat to escape and air to circulate for a cooler rest. These also wash and wear better over time since chemicals can weaken fiber structure.

Your decision to buy organic doesn’t just affect you either: how organic fibers are grown has an environmental impact. Farming organic produces fewer carbon emissions, plus, the lack of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides keep the soils clean and do not leach into the water table. Plus, it is a safer working environment. The durability of the materials also makes it easy to renew and recycle.

You may want to read: Best Percale Sheets

Conclusion

All of the above sheet options provide a GOTS certification, and various designs and styles to fit a wide variety of mattress depths for a snug, cooling comfort. Percale is a simple weave to provide a crisp snap, crackle, and pop that wears softer over time, and is considered a standard for cooling comfort. As an organic option, these sheets also provide a friendly environmental impact from start to finish, allowing you to take pride in the knowledge you have made a ‘greener’ choice of product.