As it gains popularity for its eco-friendliness, breathability, and softness, linen bedding offerings run the gamut, from organic and luxury to custom and budget-friendly.
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Linen bedding has surged in popularity over the past few years, and for good reason. Its blend of sustainability, breathability, and softness makes it a favorite among those seeking high-quality, comfortable bedding for a better night’s rest. But what is it about linen that makes it so special, and which brands are leading the way when it comes to top-tier linen bedding?
The best linen bedding, according to the Ethos editors:
- Best Overall Linen Sheets: Coyuchi Organic Linen Sheet Set, $598
- Best Bedding Set: Brooklinen Linen Core Sheet Set, $349
- Best Duvet Cover: Parachute Linen Duvet Cover, $330
- Best Luxury Sheets: Cultiver Linen Sheet Set, $445
- Best Pillowcases: MagicLinen Linen Pillowcase Set, $35
- Best for Hot Sleepers: Snowe Linen Sheet Set, $390
Why linen?
Linen is a natural fiber derived from the flax plant, and its properties make it a standout in the bedding world. It’s not just its chic, relaxed aesthetic that’s appealing, but the multiple health and environmental benefits it offers as well.
Linen’s loosely woven fibers allow for maximum airflow, making it highly breathable and ideal for warm sleepers or those in hot climates. In colder weather, linen’s unique ability to insulate helps retain warmth. Because linen naturally regulates temperature, it can keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Its moisture-wicking properties also make it an excellent choice for those prone to night sweats.
Linen is also one of the strongest natural fibers, and its durability is legendary. High-quality linen can last for decades when properly cared for so despite the pricier sticker price than conventional cotton or polyester bedding that may need replaced in a few years, with linen, you’re getting bedding that will last. And, unlike cotton, which can wear down after multiple washes, linen becomes softer and more comfortable with each use.
Adding to linen’s appeal is its eco-friendly nature, as the flax plant requires fewer pesticides, water, and energy to grow than cotton. Additionally, linen is biodegradable, meaning it won’t contribute to landfill waste at the end of its life, making it a highly sustainable option for bedding. It’s one of the few textiles that actually leaves a smaller carbon footprint compared to other materials like cotton or polyester.
Best linen bedding brands
With the growing popularity of linen, a wide range of brands have emerged, offering everything from affordable options to luxury linens. Below, we break down the top linen bedding brands into categories so you can find the best fit for your budget, style, and comfort needs.
1. Best Overall: Coyuchi
Coyuchi is known for its commitment to organic and sustainable materials, and its linen bedding is no exception. Made from 100 percent organic flax, Coyuchi’s linen sheets are perfect for eco-conscious shoppers who want comfort without compromising sustainability. The brand’s linen sheets are also Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified, ensuring they meet the highest standards for organic textiles.
“Our vendors are GOTS certified, GOLS certified, and a couple are also Fair Trade certified,” Eileen Mockus, Coyuchi’s CEO, told Ethos via email. “We ask for supply chain visibility back to the farm, as we work with farm groups and want our production to use their fiber.” In the spirit of circularity, Coyuchi also offers gently used linens through its 2nd Home Renewed collection of previously owned Coyuchi linens.
2. Best Starter Linen Set: Brooklinen
Brooklinen has made a name for itself with its high-quality bedding at reasonable prices. Its linen collection, made from Belgian and French flax, is no exception. Known for its luxurious feel and long-lasting durability, Brooklinen’s linen sheets are pre-washed for added softness, making them comfortable right out of the package.
According to Brooklinen’s co-founder Rich Fulop, Brooklinen wanted create linen sheets that combine luxury with practicality. The brand also offers a variety of modern colors and patterns, allowing for customizable style.
3. Best Luxury: Cultiver
Cultiver is a premium brand offering some of the finest linen bedding on the market. The label’s linen is sourced from European flax and carefully woven into soft, durable sheets. Cultiver sheets are stonewashed for extra softness and come in a range of sophisticated, muted tones.
The brand’s commitment to quality is reflected in the price, but for those seeking the ultimate in comfort, Cultiver is worth the investment. Cultiver founder Nicolle Sullivan says the label’s linen bedding is designed to be as luxurious as it is sustainable, so you can sleep extra sound.
4. Best Comfort Pick: Parachute
Parachute is renowned for its stylish, modern bedding, and its linen collection lives up to the brand’s reputation. Made from European flax, Parachute’s linen sheets are airy, breathable, and ideal for hot sleepers. The brand also focuses on ethical production, ensuring that its products are OEKO-TEX certified, meaning they are free from harmful chemicals.
Parachute’s linen sheets are meant to bring that laid-back, California vibe to your bedroom while providing ultimate comfort for a restful night’s sleep.
5. Best for Hot Sleepers: Snowe Home
Snowe Home has perfected the art of making linen sheets ideal for those who tend to overheat at night. Their linen bedding is light, breathable, and temperature-regulating, making it an excellent choice for hot climates or anyone prone to night sweats.
Snowe’s linen is sourced from the finest European flax and crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The sheets are stonewashed for an extra soft feel right from the first use.
6. Best for Color Variety: MagicLinen
MagicLinen offers some of the most colorful and vibrant linen bedding on the market. This Lithuanian brand allows you to mix and match shades to create a personalized bedding set that reflects your unique style. Whether you prefer bold hues or soft pastels, MagicLinen’s wide color range makes it easy to find the perfect shade.
In addition to its design appeal, MagicLinen also prides itself on ethical production practices, ensuring its bedding is made from European flax and produced in a family-owned factory.
7. Best All-Season Linen: Bed Threads
Bed Threads is an Australian brand that specializes in 100 percent French flax linen bedding that will keep your body cool in summer and warm in winter. The company’s sheets are designed to offer luxury-level softness without the premium price tag. Bed Threads also stands out for its range of stylish colors and sets, allowing customers to customize their bedding to match their décor.
The brand is also committed to sustainability, “We’re also carbon neutral, which means we will measure, reduce and offset greenhouse gas emissions where possible, doing our bit to protect and conserve the environment,” reads the website. All packaging is plastic-free.
8. Best Sustainable Pick: The Citizenry
The Citizenry puts sustainability and community at the forefront of its operations. Its linen bedding is crafted from French flax and woven in a family-run mill in Portugal. The Citizenry focuses on small-batch production and fair-trade practices, ensuring that each piece is ethically made.
“We set out to build a company that celebrates the people behind our products,” the company says, noting that “The Citizenry”, is a reflection of the collective of individuals – artisans, designers, and dreamers – “who rally together across cultures and continents to craft our collections.”
9. Best for Minimalist Design: Rough Linen
Rough Linen is the go-to brand for those who appreciate simple, timeless design. Known for its classic look and natural aesthetic, Rough Linen’s bedding collection is crafted from thick, durable flax linen. The sheets are untreated, giving them a rustic texture that softens beautifully over time.
Rough Linen is about celebrating the natural beauty of linen without unnecessary embellishments, according to founder Tricia Rose. The brand offers a minimalist color palette and simple, elegant design.
10. Best for Customization: Linoto
For those seeking truly customized linen bedding, Linoto offers a bespoke experience. Customers can choose from various sizes, colors, and styles, ensuring a perfect fit for any bedroom. Linoto’s linen is made in the USA from European flax and sewn in small batches to ensure the highest quality. In addition to offering custom options, Linoto is dedicated to sustainability, using eco-friendly packaging and shipping materials.
Caring for your linen bedding
One of the many perks of linen is that it’s relatively low-maintenance. Most linen sheets can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle and air-dried or tumble-dried on low. A natural laundry soap will also help keep the fabric soft and chemical-free. Linen becomes softer with each wash, so don’t be surprised if your sheets feel more luxurious over time. Linen naturally resists dust mites, making it a good choice for those with allergies.
To ensure the longevity of your linen bedding, avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as these can weaken the fibers. Line dry outside if an option. Storing your linen in a cool, dry place will help it maintain its quality for years to come.
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