How to choice Linen Sheets?

What is Linen?

Linen is a textile material derived from cellulose fibers of the flax plant (also known as linseed). Considered one of the world’s oldest fabrics, the production of linen dates back to prehistoric times. Today, linen is used to make a wide range of products, including garments, upholstery, tablecloths, and towels. It is also used to produce sheets and pillowcases, and is considered a more breathable alternative to cotton and polyester.

To produce linen, flax fibers are separated from the plant and spun into fine yarns, which can be woven or knit (most sheets and pillowcases are woven). Linen is commonly harvested by hand, a technique that often results in a highly durable material.

Linen offers a distinctly crisp hand-feel. Some sleepers love the texture of linen, while others find it a bit too coarse and scratchy. Linen is exceptionally breathable, as well, making it well-suited to warmer temperatures.

How to Choose Linen Sheets

As with other bedding products, choosing a linen sheet set requires consideration and research on your part. We recommend comparison shopping with different brands and collections to get an idea about expected prices, available sizes and styles, and other important details. In the next section, we’ll cover the most important factors to take into account when shopping for a new linen set.

What to Consider When Buying Linen Sheets

Our most important considerations for linen sheet shoppers are outlined below. Keep in mind that a high price-point does not always equate high quality. Some luxury bedding brands use misleading jargon to market their products. While many high-end linen sets are a worthwhile investment due to their durability, breathability, and comfort, some are simply overpriced and may not perform well over time.

• Feel: Linen feels very crisp and smooth at first, but the material will soften over time with subsequent laundry cycles. Some linen bedding feels initially softer due to certain manufacturing techniques, such as garment-washing or stone-washing. Linen blended with other fabrics like cotton or rayon from bamboo also tends to be softer than pure linen.
• Fit: When browsing linen sheet sets, be sure to check the “pocket depth” measurement of the fitted sheet. This figure refers to how far the elasticated corners will stretch, and should accommodate the thickness of your mattress. For example, a fitted sheet with a 12-inch pocket depth won’t be deep enough for a 13-inch mattress. Also keep in mind that linen may shrink in the wash – though this won’t be an issue if you buy pre-washed linen.
• Price: High-quality linen sets typically cost $200 or more in any size. For a queen size set, expect to pay between $300 and $600. More affordable linen sets are also available, but they may not meet the same standards for quality and durability. Blended linen usually costs less than pure linen.
• Weight: The weight of linen sheets is expressed in grams per square meter, or GSM. According to general consensus among sleepers and sleep experts, the ideal GSM for linen sheets falls between 170 and 190. Heavier linen sheets provide more insulation during colder times of the year, but they may feel excessively warm when the temperatures rise. Lighter linen sheets are optimal for warmer weather but may feel too thin in colder climates.
• Design, Color, and Pattern: Compared to sheet sets made from other fabrics, you may find a more limited color and pattern selection for linen items. Neutral and earth tones, as well as whites and off-whites, are most common. These shades complement most bedroom decors, but if you prefer more vibrant colors and patterns, then you may want to consider another bedding material.
• Breathability: Breathability is considered one of linen’s biggest strengths. The material is very airy and light, making it ideal for sleep during hotter times of the year. At the same time, most linen sheets and pillowcases offer decent warmth and insulation from the cold.
• Durability: Linen is quite durable, especially if the fabric comes from hand-harvested fibers. That said, linen tends to deteriorate over time if you wash and dry it in a machine too frequently. Many manufacturers recommend line-drying to preserve the material better. A higher GSM measurement may indicate the linen is more durable.
• Ease of Care: Most linen sheets and pillowcases can be washed and dried in any household machine, though you should not wash these items too frequently; otherwise they will deteriorate more quickly. Most manufacturers discourage the use of chlorine bleach or fabric softener.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Linen Sheets?

Natural breathability and durability are considered two of linen’s biggest strengths. However, there are also some disadvantages associated with linen, such as above-average pricing and excessive wrinkles. In the table below, we’ll break down linen’s most notable pros and cons.