Linen bedding has been a popular choice for centuries, and for good reason. It is naturally breathable, durable, and soft, making it a great option for a comfortable night's sleep and a cozy bedroom aesthetic.
However, choosing the right linen bedding can be an intimidating task, especially if you are new to linen fabric and have to sort through the many options available in the market. Let us walk you through the ins and outs of this versatile fabric in this helpful guide that shares tips on how to select the right 100% linen bedding, from linen sheets and coverlets to bedskirts and beyond, to suit your 2023 style for a look and feel you’ll love.
Where Does Linen Come From?
Linen is one of the oldest textiles known to man and comes from fibers of the flax plant. Its unique processing methods are what make linen bedding so sturdy yet soft. The production of linen requires skill and patience, which is why it was considered an elite, exclusive textile for much of history. Today, linen is produced around the world and is still enduring in popularity.
What are the Benefits of Linen Bedding?
Not only is linen stylish and classic, but it has tons of health and wellness benefits, too! Linen sheets are moisture-wicking and dry very quickly, keeping you nice and cool, which is proven to be good for sleep. Additionally, linen bedding has antimicrobial properties, making it perfect for those with allergies. This is what makes a linen bedskirt so effective – dust and dirt won’t get trapped within, and it will stay clean and allergen-free.
Top Benefits of Linen for Sleeping
There are many reasons why linen bedding is the gold standard when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, but three of our favorite reasons to love linen bedding are:
- Softness
- Durability
- Temperature regulation
Linen bedding provides spa-like softness that will make your bed a blissful retreat that you look forward to all day long. Additionally, linen sheets and duvet covers will last a lifetime. Instead of breaking down and wearing thin like other fabrics, linen actually gets softer with each wash. Finally, linen sheets are breathable and regulate your body temperature, ensuring you’ll be cozy in the winter and nice and cool in the summer.
Guide to Buying Linen Bedding
Buying pure linen is an investment, so it’s good to consider your seller and look out for certain attributes when shopping. Be on the lookout for 100% linen bedding that boasts a pre-wash or stonewash cycle. This will ensure your linen bedding arrives nice and soft, only to get softer with age! Also, pay attention to the weave of the fabric; good quality linen bedding should be tightly woven with no obvious spaces. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll find linen bedding that will last a lifetime!
7 Things to Consider When Shopping for Your New Linen Bedding:
- Thread count
- Color
- Weave
- Weight
- Quality
- Finish
- Care requirements
1. Consider the thread count
When it comes to linen bedding, thread count is not as important as it is with cotton bedding. Linen is naturally more durable and longer lasting than cotton, and linen sheets tend to become softer with each wash. However, linen fabric with a higher thread count can still indicate a higher quality of linen (but not too high – that usually indicates that it’s mixed with synthetic fibers). Typically, pure linen fabric with a thread count of 80-140 is considered good quality.
We recommend our Pale Blue Edge Embroidered Flat Linen Sheet. It’s a home classic with the ideal thread count for long-lasting, high-quality, 100% linen sheets.
2. Choose the right color
Linen bedding is available in a wide range of colors, so it's important to choose the right hue for your bedroom. If you're going for a classic, timeless look, consider neutrals like white, beige, or gray. If you want to add some color to your bedroom, go for pastel shades or even bright color linen fabric like yellow or pink. The color you choose should complement the overall color scheme of your bedroom and appeal to your personal taste.
Keep in mind that you can always opt for a neutral linen duvet cover and offset it with a bold linen sheet set for a statement look that’s all your own. Or set the stage with a white linen bedskirt as the base and colored bedding above for a bright pop.
3. Decide on the type of linen weave
Linen bedding is available in a variety of weaves, including:
- Plain weave
- Twill weave
- Jacquard weave
- Damask weave
The type of weave you choose will depend on your personal preference and the overall look you're going for in your bedroom. A plain weave is the most common and has a classic, timeless look, while a twill weave has a diagonal pattern that adds texture to the bedding. Jacquard and damask weaves are often used for decorative bedding, such as linen bedspreads and pillow shams, but they are not as commonly used as plain weave.
4. Check the weight of the linen
The weight of the linen is an important consideration when choosing linen bedding. A heavier linen fabric will provide more warmth, making it ideal for use in the winter months. Lighter linen, on the other hand, is perfect for summer or warmer climates. Consider the weight of the linen when choosing your linen sheets and comforters to ensure they’re suitable for the climate in which you live.
If you’re looking for bedding that works year-round, you can’t go wrong with a mid-weight linen bedspread. Add a layer of luxury with our Box Stitch Linen Quilt Bedspread, a mid-weight quilt ideal for all seasons.
5. Look for high-quality linen
Not all linen is created equal, and it's important to choose high-quality linen bedding to ensure it lasts for years to come. Look for linen that is made from long flax fibers, as these fibers produce the highest quality linen. Additionally, linen that is made from European flax is often considered the highest quality.
6. Consider the finish
The finish of the linen bedding can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your final product. A stonewashed finish gives the linen bedding a relaxed, casual look, while a crisp finish is more formal and elegant. Consider the overall style of your bedroom when choosing the finish of your bedding.
For a personalized touch, you can even mix and match styles. Pull it all together with our impeccable French Blue Quilted Linen Shams that have a texture and finish that will instantly elevate any bedroom.
7. Take care of your linen bedding
To ensure your linen sheets and shams last for years to come, it's important to take care of them properly. Linen should be washed in cool or lukewarm water and dried on a low heat setting. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as this can damage the fibers. Additionally, avoid hanging your linen bedding in direct sunlight, as this can cause the color to fade.
Choosing the right linen bedding for your chic bedroom in 2023 doesn't have to be a daunting task. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy a comfortable and stylish night's sleep in your beautiful 100% linen sheets. And with its timeless appeal, your new linens will last you for many restful nights to come.
For high-quality linen bedding, visit Linenforce today and explore our collection of the best linen sheets and more for your home.
