What is Linen Fabric?

Linen fabric is made from the flax plant, an environmentally friendly, biodegradable and renewable resource. Besides fabric, flax plants are used to make other products such as flax seed oil and paper. Linen fabric is made when the very fine fibers from the flax plant are spun into yarn and then woven into fabric. An indicator of the quality of linen is the origin of the flax. The best flax is grown in Western Europe and Ukraine.

Benefits of Linen Bedding

Linen fabric has been widely used for centuries, and for good reason – linen is stronger, more absorbent and longer lasting than other fabrics (linen is 30% stronger than cotton, for example). A midweight fabric, linen is also naturally lustrous and lint-free, looking and feeling better after every wash. Linen is hypoallergenic and anti-bacterial and is also one of the most breathable of fabrics. Because of these qualities, sleeping on natural linen sheets can be good for your skin, too – especially for those with sensitive skin.

Since pure linen is both moisture wicking and temperature regulating, it’s great for year-round use. Linen bedding provides a comfortable sleep environment that keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. What’s more, a study by the University of Milan indicates that when you sleep on linen sheets, you fall asleep faster, sleep deeper, and wake up in a better mood, making them among the best sheets available today!

Choosing Linen Bedding

Look for sheets and pillowcases and pillow and duvet covers made with 100% linen. The highest quality luxury linen fabrics are produced in Europe, such as Italy and Portugal, so check the country of origin as well.

Caring for Linen Bedding

You should always follow the care instructions on your bedding but, generally speaking, linen sheets can be machine washed in a warm gentle cycle. Linen becomes softer and softer over time and never pills, stretches, or loses its shape. As linen wrinkles easily, use an iron on low warm setting if desired.