“Everything you need to know before buying linen sheets”
When thinking about linen sheets, it is natural to envision a lightweight, airy material fluttering in the breeze, hanging out to dry in a lovely rural cottage. Despite their supposedly heavenly properties, linen bedding can be rather different from what you’re used to if you sleep on cotton or other fibres
Cotton Vs Linen
Why is Linen priced highly?
Linen is often more expensive compared to other bedding materials due to a number of factors:
- Production Process: Linen is made from the fibres of the flax plant, which is a labour-intensive process from harvesting to spinning the fibres into usable threads. This contributes to the overall cost of linen
2. Rarity: Linen is a rarer material compared to cotton or synthetic fibres, and the demand for it often exceeds the supply, leading to higher prices.
3. Durability: Linen is a highly durable material that can last for many years with proper care, making it a worthwhile investment for some consumers.
4. Quality: High-quality linen is soft, luxurious, and has a unique texture, which adds to its overall value.
All of these factors contribute to the higher cost of linen, but many people believe it is worth it for the benefits it offers such as its natural cooling and moisture-wicking properties.
The Pros And Cons Of Linen Bedding
Should I Get Linen Or Cotton?
In determining the best sheets for you, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. The following is a guide on which type of fabric may be best suited for specific preferences.
Choose Linen Sheets if …
· You sweat while sleeping or feels weirdly cold, linen sheets are a top choice for their ultra-cooling and warming properties.
· You prioritize durability in your bed sheets, linen is a great option due to its longevity.
· You are fond of environmentally friendly products, linen sheets are a good choice as they are biodegradable and appealing to eco-conscious shoppers.
Choose Cotton Sheets if…
· You want a fabric that feels soft and smooth from the start and does not require breaking in like linen.
· Cost is a concern, cotton sheets are a good option as they come in a range of prices to fit different budgets.
· You enjoy a variety of colours and patterns, cotton sheets are the way to go as they offer a larger selection compared to linen sheets
How do I wash my linen sheets?
Due to linen’s distinct qualities, the process of washing linen sheets differs from that of other fabrics. Linen is derived from the flax plant fibres, which grants it exceptional sturdiness and ventilation compared to other textiles. Additionally, linen’s fibres have greater absorbency, allowing it to retain more water than other materials, thereby requiring a separate washing method. Surprisingly, it became apparent that the care guide for linen sheets is an essential aspect since it directly affects the lifespan of the sheets.
Step 1
To achieve optimal results, it is advisable to sort linens by colour, separating whites, darks, and coloured items. It is recommended to turn linens inside out and wash them individually from other fabrics. Additionally, it is crucial to avoid combining heavy items such as jeans, hoodies, or towels with linen textiles.
Step 2
It is recommended to wash linen sheets in warm water that is below 40°C/104°F to prevent potential damage. Exposing the sheets to high temperatures can result in shrinkage up to 10% and may also weaken the fibres of the linen material.
Step 3
It is advisable to use a gentle machine cycle and avoid overloading the washing machine.
Step 4
Use a mild detergent that is specifically designed for delicate fabrics to wash linen sheets. Avoid using detergents that contain substances such as Sodium Borate, Sodium Hydroxide, Cellulase, Protease, and Amylase. Plus, it is best to refrain from using bleach when washing linen sheets.
How to Dry linen sheets?
Now you may be wondering if linen can be dried using dryer? The answer is yes but you have to be caution. You can use a dryer to dry your linen sheets, but use a low heat setting.
Many people, however, prefer to air dry their linens partially or fully. Air-drying is the best way for drying linen sheets since it preserves the fabric and keeps it durable for decades long. If you have the time, hang your sheets immediately after washing and air-dry them thoroughly. If you intend to use a dryer to dry your linen sheets partially, it’s recommended to remove them from the dryer while they are still slightly moist. You can then hang them up either indoors or outdoors on a clothesline if the weather is suitable, and let them dry completely.
Remember that linen bedding dry faster than cotton sheets. To test the dryness of your linen sheets, put them in the dryer for eight minutes and progressively extend the drying time as needed. When drying linen sheets, whether indoors or outdoors, be mindful of where you hang them and how you use clothespins to avoid wrinkling or puckering of the fabric. Eventually, because the sun can fade the colour of linen, it is better to avoid direct sunlight by drying your sheets in a shady area.
What causes linen sheets to discolour?
There are several factors that can cause discoloration of linen. Firstly, bleach and strong detergents can cause stains on both dyed and undyed linen, which has a natural off-white color. Therefore, it’s better to use a mild detergent. Although non-chlorine (or color-safe) bleach is suitable for washing linen sheets, it’s advisable to avoid it if you’re worried about discoloration. Additionally, using makeup and skincare products that contain AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) can also leave marks on the fabric.
What is the best way to get stains out of linen bedding?
It is recommended to address stains on your linen bedding as soon as they occur, by putting the sheets in the wash right away. I had encountered the same issue where I accidentally spilled my coffee on the sheets and surprisingly this so called ‘trick’ worked. Before washing, I suggest you to remove the stains by spot-treating them with a combination of baking soda and distilled white vinegar.
Instead of vigorously scrubbing the stain, gently blot it with the solution using a clean cloth until the stain appears to be removed. After that, wash your sheets using your usual method. For larger stains, you can add approximately a cup of white vinegar and a few tablespoons of baking soda to the wash along with your regular laundry detergent.
Is it necessary that I iron my linen bedding?
Ironing linen bedding is optional because the fabric’s laid-back nature is known for its informal, effortless look that improves when you make your bed. Furthermore, slightly wet linen sheets are unlikely to wrinkle, so it’s possible to make your bed when the sheets are nearly dry. However, if you choose to iron your linen bedding, it is crucial to set the iron to its lowest temperature.
How should I store my linen sheets?
Proper storage is critical to the longevity of linen bedding, especially if you own multiple bedding sets or keep additional linens on hand for guests. As saying goes good storing = great snoring, it is best to store bed linens in a sleeping bag, either the one that came with the sheets or a new one, to preserve the fabric from dust mites and to avoid direct sunlight, which can cause fading. It is vital to store your linen bedding in a dry, cold location and to avoid storing it in moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms and laundry rooms. Ample ventilation is also necessary, so avoid using plastic storage containers, which tend to trap moisture.
Do you know linen helps you sleep better?
Sleeping well can have a multitude of health advantages. During sleep, the brain can eliminate harmful toxins and reinforce memories. I am sure many of us know that sleep is important for regulating the body’s temperature, mood, energy, metabolism, and immune system. If we do not get enough sleep, it can have a significant impact on our overall well-being, causing us to be less productive at work, altering our perceptions and moods, and potentially impacting our relationships. Over time, a lack of sleep can also affect our metabolism, making it more challenging to maintain a healthy weight.
Getting linen bedding can promote better sleep. How? Unlike cotton, which forms little balls of fabric called pills over time, linen becomes softer as you wash it and the pectin in the fibres is naturally broken down. This makes linen bedding ideal for a comfortable night’s sleep.
Feeling either too hot or too chilly at night might keep you from getting a good night’s sleep. You may be stunned if I were to assure you that linen could be worn all year. Depending on the temperature of the room, linen bedding’s tiny gaps in the fibres can retain warm air or let it out. Because of this, linen is a thermoregulating fabric that can keep you warm in the rain and cool in the hot shiny day. Plus, linen can take up to 20% of its own weight in moisture before it starts to feel damp.
Which colour of linen sheet should I buy ?
Since linen sheets are expensive, you should be certain that the colour you select complements the theme of your bedroom. The colours that KAPAS has to offer are undeniably stunning, making it difficult to choose, but I am here to assist you in selecting the most appropriate shade to enliven your space.
For individuals with a minimalistic bedroom decor that features mostly white, light grey, and black items, this particular colour is a great fit as it complements the overall aesthetic. This shade is especially suitable for males as it exudes a sense of maturity and peacefulness.
If you happen to have a room that is mostly furnished in white with wooden furniture pieces, then it might be worth considering our collection of linen sheet in a cool and refreshing icy blue hue, which could potentially provide a complementary contrast and add a touch of serene elegance to your space.
If you are looking for a bedding upgrade that exudes warmth, vibrancy, and an exotic touch to your bedroom decor, then a bedsheet in a rich burnt orange colour could be the perfect choice for you. The burnt orange shade is versatile and complements well with a neutral or nude-based room colour scheme, creating a warm and cosy ambience. It also blends well with a Bali or boho-themed decor, lending an earthy, natural feel to the space. Not just that, the burnt orange hue adds a pop of colour and energy to your bed, inviting you to relax and unwind in style. So, consider investing in a burnt orange bedsheet to elevate the look of your bedroom with its captivating and unique charm.
For those who adore pastel hues, a bedsheet in serene sage green could be an ideal addition to their bedding collection. This soft and delicate colour pairs effortlessly with a mixture of soft pink shades, creating a calming and feminine vibe in the bedroom. Whether you’re a female or simply appreciate a gentle palette, this sage green bedsheet is a stylish and versatile choice that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your sleeping space.
If you have a minimalistic personality and love classic style, a bedsheet in a timeless taupe colour may be ideal for you. Taupe is a stylish and adaptable colour that works well with practically any bedroom style, from modern to classic. Its subdued and neutral colour produces a tranquil and comforting ambience in the bedroom, allowing you to rest and relieve stress after a hard day. Taupe’s delicate and modest nature lends an elegant and sophisticated touch to your bedding, boosting the room’s overall appearance and feel. Since nude is becoming trending, taupe would be an ideal colour if you are someone who is catching up with the trend.
A smoky grey bedsheet is a sleek and elegant choice that adds drama and depth to your bedding. This muted and elegant grey is ideal for spaces with a modern or contemporary design, where it matches well with sleek lines, metallic accents, and strong patterns. It also works well in rooms with a neutral or monochromatic colour scheme, producing a mild and calm atmosphere that promotes relaxation and deep sleep. Investing in a smoky grey bedsheet is a great way to give your bed a sumptuous and elegant look while also enjoying the adaptability and timelessness of this modest and adaptable colour.
If you enjoy experimenting with different textures and layers in your bedding, a bedsheet in a lovely French stripe linen colour might be a great addition to your collection. French stripe linen in a natural, earthy tint is a flexible and classic choice that combines smoothly with any simple sheet, producing a distinctive and beautiful appearance for your bed. The linen material’s unique and slightly textured feel lends a touch of elegance and comfort to your bedding, while the French stripe linen colour provides a subtle, rustic appeal. A French stripe linen bedsheet is a great way to make your bed stand out and show off your creativity and originality.
If you are someone who finds it annoying to find different design or colours of sheets to suit the look of your bed room then snow white it is. A simple white bedsheet is a multipurpose and ageless choice that goes with practically any home style. It gives a sense of class and sophistication to your bedding while also providing a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere in the bedroom. White bedsheets are ideal for minimalistic, modern, or Scandinavian-style homes that value clean lines, simplicity, and lightness. It also looks well in rooms with bright or colourful accent colours because it provides a neutral backdrop that allows these colours to shine out.
Conclusion
I mean linen is pretty much pricey but consider it as an investment that will surely return you a good favour. I hope that this information has given you a better understanding of why linen sheets are becoming increasingly popular among bedding options especially in Europe. Linen sheets offer a range of unique and beneficial features that make them stand out from other materials. They are eco-friendly, durable, breathable, and naturally temperature-regulating, making them a comfortable and healthy option for a good night’s sleep. Their distinctive texture and subtle colour variations add a touch of luxury and elegance to your bedding, while their softness and versatility make them a long-lasting and rewarding investment. With all these benefits, it is easy to see why linen sheets are becoming a must-have for any bedding collection.
Good luck in choosing your linen sheets!
