Linen sheets and other linen bedding materials have been trending for some time. People boast about their natural antibacterial properties, breathability, laidback aesthetic, and durability. We’ve asked designers and linen bedding experts the questions you might be wondering before purchasing some for yourself.
What’s the difference between linen bedding and other bedding materials like cotton or polyester? To start, linen is made from the flax plant, rather than a cotton plant or a synthetic material. Flax has coarse fibers, making the bedding, whether a sheet or duvet cover, feel slightly rough or “crunchy” when first used. This unique texture also offers a different look—linen has a more relaxed and wrinkled appearance than other bedding materials like cotton. Linen bedding has many health, quality, and sleep-related benefits, but they are also typically more expensive than other options.
While linen bedding may start out feeling “crunchy,” it actually softens with each wash. Avoid using traditional fabric softeners and try using baking soda instead to help soften the fabric.
A high-quality set of linen sheets might cost around $200-$350 while you can find a set of cotton sheets for around $50-$100. Why is there such a price difference? It all comes down to how the material is made.
“Linen fiber is more difficult and costly to harvest compared to cotton. The fiber is hidden within the flax stalks, so extracting the fiber is a longer and more laborious process,” says Katie Elks, design director at Brooklinen. “The linen fiber is inelastic and can easily break during production as looms put a lot of tension on the yarns. When weaving linen, machines generally have to run at lower speeds, which decreases output and increases cost.”
Elks also notes that flax is grown and harvested in Western Europe, where climate and soil conditions are optimal for the fiber. By comparison, cotton is grown worldwide. The more limited European production and labor of linen contributes to costly production.
Carson Downing
Why is linen bedding suddenly so popular? It’s not a new invention—linen has been a bedding material for centuries. Both a designer and bedding expert give us their top reasons as to why they think the material has had a resurgence.
Linen is hypoallergenic, making it a great bedding material for those with sensitive skin. It also dries quickly if it has absorbed any moisture, making it a poor environment for bacteria to grow. The material contains lignin and silica as well, both of which aid in fighting off bacteria growth. As people become more and more health-conscious with home products, linen is often thought of as the go-to bedding material for those in the wellness community.
Linen is more breathable than other materials, meaning it allows for better temperature regulation. It is cooling in the summer and warming in the winter, making it great for year-round use. It also absorbs moisture (like sweat) for a more pleasurable sleeping experience.
“Linen, our most breathable fabric, uses linen fibers that have unique moisture-wicking properties that make it even cooler than cotton,” Elks says.
Forget ironing your bedding—linen is meant to look wrinkled and relaxed. Some say that its natural creases make the fabric look even more high-end.
Interior designer Lindye Galloway says that linen bedding has been trending for a variety of reasons, especially its appearance. “The sheets offer a unique combination of luxury and comfort while having a simplistic look that can be seamlessly incorporated into various design styles.”
Elks agrees. “It’s perfect for those looking for a luxurious, laidback aesthetic, as the rumpled textured look really elevates a space!”
Elks says that linen is more durable than most other materials, which means you won’t have to replace them as often. While they may be more expensive at first, they might save you money in the long run.
“Linen sheets are great for those looking to invest in sheets that will continue to soften and perform for years to come,” Elks says.
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