Just thinking about linen sheets conjures an image of airy, breezy fabricpossibly even themost comfortable sheetsever.
They’re especially appealing when paired with a soft, durable linenduvet coverfor a lived-in look.
What Is Linen?
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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.
As one of the world’s oldest fabrics, linen is revered for its strength and durability.
It is known to be stronger than cotton and perhaps the strongest fiber.
Here are a few top reasons why linen sheets are a good investment.
Linen sheets are durable.
This means that if properly cared for, they can last for decades.
Though they may feel crisp at first, linen sheets will soften over time.
Linen sheets are moisture-wicking.
Linen is renowned for being cool to sleep in, says Cathy Marriott of Dormitory.
Likebamboo sheets, linen sheets are effective at drawing heat away from the body and wicking away moisture.
Linen sheets are allergy-friendly.
Another great thing about linen sheets is that they are virtually lint-free and hypoallergenic.
They can also help prevent bacterial growth, Marriott says, since they are moisture-wicking.
This means that linen sheets will benefit those with allergies, skin sensitivities, and babies.
Linen sheets are environmentally friendly.
Linen is made from flaxand all parts are usedwhich reduces waste.
Additionally, flax is biodegradable and needs no irrigation.
There are some cons to linen sheets, however, including the following:
What Is Cotton?
Cotton is another natural fiber, derived from cotton plants.
Treasured for its soft feel, cotton is also a breathable fabric that’s comfortable to wear.
There are various types of cotton fabrics produced, including Egyptian cotton, a commonly sought-after luxurious cotton.
In the United States, cotton yields over $20 billion in revenue.
But, before youpurchase cotton sheets, consider some additional benefits of this tried-and-true fabric.
Cotton sheets are comfortable.
The soft, fluffy aspect of cotton fabric makes cotton sheets some of the most comfortable for sleeping.
Cotton sheets are breathable.
Similar to linen sheets, cotton sheets also absorb moisture.
This helps keep you cool while sleeping during warmer weather and can keep you warm during colder months.
Additionally, its breathability means that cotton can help reduce the risk of infection from moisture-loving bacteria or fungi.
Cotton sheets can help you sleep better.
The comfort level and temperature-regulating aspects of cotton sheets mean you may have abetter night’s sleep.
Cotton sheets are affordable and low maintenance.
Plus, these sheets don’t require much to keep clean.
Cons of Cotton Sheets
There are some downsides to cotton sheets to considerdespite all the benefits.
Here, are a few of the most common drawbacks of cotton sheets.
Keep in mind that linen has a very different feel for sleeping than fine cotton percale orsateen sheets.
This will help protect the sheets further.
Avoid fabric softeners and wash sheets before their first use.
To prevent pilling and wrinkles, wash cotton sheets separately from other laundry.
How Long Do Linen Sheets Last?
before they need to be replaced, Samatas says.
(Cotton sheets can last two to three years depending on the quality, usage, and care.)
Most of the time, the more expensive set will denote higher quality.
Also, take careful note of the wording on the packaging.
COMFORT AND HANDLE BEHAVIOUR OF LINEN-BLENDED FABRICS.AUTEX Research Journal,7(1), 33-47.https://doi.org/10.1515/aut-2007-070104
Gavkharoy, O.
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HISTORY OF COTTON AND CHARACTERISTICS OF ORIGIN.IJTIMOIY FANLARDA INNOVATSIYA ONLAYN ILMIY JURNALI,3(6), 117121.
Retrieved fromhttps://sciencebox.uz/index.php/jis/article/view/7650
Benefits of Cotton.Cotton Incorporated,thefabricofourlives.com/the-benefits-of-cotton.
Accessed 3 Oct. 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions.Cotton.org, National Cotton Council of America, 2019,www.cotton.org/edu/faq/.
Accessed 3 Oct. 2024.
Cotton Health and Wellness Benefits.Cotton, The Fabric of Our Lives,thefabricofourlives.com/the-benefits-of-cotton/health-wellness.
Accessed 4 Oct. 2024.
Cotton Incorporated, USA.
Comfort Testing Project Report.
