Here's Why Linen Sheets May Be Better Than Cotton

Just thinking about linen sheets conjures an image of airy, breezy fabric—possibly even the most comfortable sheets ever—blowing in the wind, hung out to dry on a clothesline at a picturesque country home. They're especially appealing when paired with a soft, durable linen duvet cover for a lived-in look. As dreamy as they sound, sleeping on linen sheets is different if you're used to other fabrics, such as cotton. Read on to learn all about these luxurious sheets before buying a set and why linen sheets are preferred by many.

What Is Linen?

Linen is made from a natural fiber of the flax plant, which mainly comes from Europe. In particular, Belgian linen is thought to be among the highest-quality types of linen. "There is a reason linen sheets are passed down from generation to generation and treated like heirlooms: The quality is incredible," says Samatas.

Benefits of Linen Sheets

When considering purchasing linen sheets, it's helpful to know there are various benefits. Here are a few top reasons why linen sheets are a good investment.

Linen sheets are durable.

The good news is that linen sheets are pretty sturdy; linen is about 30% more durable than cotton. This means that if properly cared for, they can last for decades.

Though at first they may feel crisp, linen sheets will soften over time. (This is just one of the many reasons why it's important to know how often you should wash your sheets.)

Linen sheets are moisture-wicking.

Linen is renowned for being cool to sleep in, says Marriott. Like bamboo sheets, they are effective at drawing heat away from the body and wicking away moisture. Even if you're already wearing something like cooling pajamas, linen sheets will provide additional relief if you're a hot sleeper.

"When linen comes into contact with your skin, nodes in the length of the fibers absorb perspiration, then swell and release the moisture into the air, thus creating a fabric that's self-cooling," Marriott adds.

While linen sheets are ideal for summer months and hot climates for this reason, they're versatile for any season or weather thanks to their natural ability to regulate temperature, Samatas explains. Samatas suggests pairing linen sheets with a faux fur blanket during cooler months and for warmer months, pairing them with a quilt.

Linen sheets are allergy-friendly.

Another great thing about linen sheets is that they are virtually lint-free and hypoallergenic. They also can help prevent bacterial growth, Marriott says. This means that linen sheets will benefit those with allergies, skin sensitivities, and babies.

Linen sheets are environmentally friendly.

Linen is made from flax—and all parts are used—which reduces waste. While the fibers are used for the fabric, the seeds are used to make linseed oil (for floors). Additionally, flax is biodegradable and needs no irrigation.

Cotton vs. Linen Sheets

Both cotton and linen sheets are popular and have been used for many years. While they're both comfortable for sleeping, it's clear that linen sheets have some benefits over cotton sheets: They're moisture-wicking, more durable, and more sustainable than cotton.

There are some cons to linen sheets, however, including the following:

• They are more costly. A downside of linen sheets is that they're more expensive up-front, though they will last longer than cotton sheets.
• They're not as soft. Linen sheets are rougher than cotton sheets when first purchased, but they do get softer over time and with washes. "Think of linen sheets like a nice linen dress: [The fabric] will soften over time, but never be as soft as cotton," Samatas says.
• There are fewer design options. Finally, there aren't as many color or pattern options for linen sheets as for cotton.

Caring for Linen Sheets

Taking care of linen sheets will help them last longer, protecting your investment. Follow these simple tips for washing and storing linen sheets.

Washing and Drying

Like any bedding, you should wash linen sheets weekly in cold water with a mild detergent; dry them on low heat (or, even better, on a line). Avoid fabric softeners that contain silicone, which can coat the linen fibers and hinder their ability to absorb moisture, and remove linen sheets from the dryer promptly to minimize wrinkles. (Be sure you know how to fold a fitted sheet so those sheets get the proper storage they deserve.)

Storing

Store linen sheets in a dry, well-ventilated area, and avoid putting them in plastic bags or boxes that can cause permanent yellowing. If you're storing them long-term, wrap them in white cotton, muslin (like an old pillow case), or acid-free tissue paper first.

Should You Use Linen Sheets?

Hot sleepers will appreciate the cooling benefits of linen sheets, and allergy sufferers may find relief from symptoms by tucking into a bed of linen at night. However, since linen is heavier than cotton, it might not suit someone who doesn't like extra weight on them while sleeping.

Marriott notes that many linen sheets on the market are labeled "stonewashed" or "enzyme washed," which means the softening process has been accelerated to give them an aged feel and appearance. Stone washing involves washing the sheets in huge drums with pumice that beats against the fabric, while enzyme washing uses chemicals—so if you have sensitive skin, you may want to avoid these types of linen sheets.

How Long Do Linen Sheets Last?

Though they might begin to show signs of wear after three to five years, with proper care, linen sheets can last several decades (really!) before they need to be replaced, Samatas says. Before you buy, examine the weave of the sheets: A very loose weave with open spaces between threads won't last as long, explains Marriott. Most of the time, the more expensive set will denote higher quality.

Also, take careful note of the wording on the packaging. "Often what's being marketed as French or Belgian linen is actually referring to the origin of the flax, and the linen itself is being woven and made in China," Marriott adds.

As with any luxury item, linen sheets are an investment, but as long as you take care of them, the many years of use you'll get may justify the cost. Keep in mind that linen has a very different feel for sleeping than fine cotton percale or sateen sheets, so it comes down to personal preference. Linen sheets will never have the smoothness you might be used to if sleeping on cotton sheets, so those passionate about the best thread count should beware.