Cooling off during a hot summer night can feel like an impossible challenge, especially when the bedding feels hot and sticky. If your sheets feel like they are trapping heat instead of helping you cool down, it won’t matter how many fans you have or how low you’ve turned the thermostat. Thankfully, there’s a much better way to sleep during the sweltering summer months. Here, we will explore the benefits of linen bedding and how these luxurious, breathable, and stylish sheets can help you achieve your summer sleep goals. We will also touch upon Duvet vs Comforter.
Yumerest’s cloud-like fluffy duvets offer the perfect balance of coziness and breathability to keep you cool during hot summer nights. The fluffy construction promotes airflow, while the linen cover helps wick moisture and regulate temperature for a comfortable night’s sleep, no matter how hot it gets.
What is Linen Bedding?
Linen bedding is made from the natural fibers of the flax plant. While flax can be grown in many regions, high-quality linen is typically produced in Europe, particularly in Belgium. "There is a reason linen sheets are passed down from generation to generation and treated like heirlooms: The quality is incredible," says Christina Samatas of Park & Oak.
Comfort, Durability, and Eco-Consciousness
Linen has a distinct texture and appearance, with a breathable weave and a casual, slightly wrinkled finish. It is gaining popularity among consumers for its comfort, durability, and sustainability. As one of the oldest fabrics in the world, linen is revered for its strength and durability.
It is known to be stronger than cotton and perhaps the strongest fiber. Despite its strength, linen is also exceptionally resilient, returning to its natural state well after being stretched, worn, or stressed.
What’s the Process for Making Linen?
Understanding how linen is made gives you insight into its unique properties and benefits. Unlike cotton, which derives from the fluffy bolls that grow around cotton seeds, linen comes from fibers within the stalks of the flax plant. Flax production requires a little more time investment.
From Seed to Fiber
First, flax seeds take approximately 100 days to grow. Then the crop is harvested (usually by machine, but it is also possible by hand). Next, the flax is processed through a machine that separates the fibers, removing seeds and leaves. After that, the flax stalks need to be broken up to split the unusable outer flax stalk from the inner stalk, which will be used to create linen.
Once the inner stalk has been separated, it's time to comb the strands. After combing, the linen is ready to be spun, connecting the shorter strands. Then the strands are reeled onto a bobbin. Finally, the yarn is left to dry. At this point, it's prepared for dyeing and treatment for use.
Why is Linen More Expensive Than Cotton?
A high-quality set of linen sheets might cost around $200-$350, while you can find a set of cotton sheets for around $50-$100. Why is there such a price difference? It all comes down to how the material is made.
Why Production Costs More Than Cotton
“Linen fiber is more difficult and costly to harvest compared to cotton. The fiber is hidden within the flax stalks, so extracting the fiber is a longer and more laborious process," says Katie Elks, design director at Brooklinen. “The linen fiber is inelastic and can easily break during production as looms put a lot of tension on the yarns. When weaving linen, machines generally have to run at lower speeds, which decreases output and increases cost.”
Elks also notes that flax is grown and harvested in Western Europe, where climate and soil conditions are optimal for the fiber. By comparison, cotton is grown worldwide. The more limited European production and labor of linen contribute to its high production costs.
An Investment That Lasts and Improves with Time
Although linen may require a substantial initial investment to get set up, the fabric is long-lasting and only improves with age. We spoke with Genevieve Rosen-Biller, the founder of Bed Threads, to find out why linen bedding is so great and what benefits you get for the money you pay.
Why is Linen So Popular?
“There’s a host of benefits associated with sleeping on linen bedding, but perhaps what has elevated it into a trend over the past few seasons is its relaxed, yet refined, aesthetic,” says Genevieve. “Thanks to its natural fibers, linen is known for the way it effortlessly finishes a space. It creases, yes, but that’s all part of the aesthetic—fitting seamlessly into any space.”
How Do I Choose Quality Linen?
“First of all, make sure what you’re investing in is 100% linen and not a blend with another fiber,” says Genevieve. “Even a natural one, like cotton, or a synthetic material.”
“If linen is pre-washed, it will be softer upon arrival, and ready to use. If it’s not pre-washed, it can be quite coarse, although pure linen will always soften with time.”
“If the linen is dyed, it’s worth asking the store staff whether the dye is eco-friendly, and whether it has been treated with chemicals like formaldehyde, as this can impact quality.”
“And finally, pay attention to where the linen itself is cultivated – most premium brands will source theirs from Europe.”
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15 Amazing Benefits of Linen Bedding
1. Comfort Like No Other: Linen’s Natural Softness and Texture
Linen bedding offers a unique blend of softness and durability that’s hard to beat. Made from natural fibres derived from the flax plant, linen has a distinctive texture that combines a cool, crisp feel with an inviting cosiness. Unlike synthetic materials or overly processed fabrics, linen fabric retains its natural character, which many people find soothing and luxurious.
The Ever-Softening Embrace: Linen's Evolving Comfort
One of the most delightful features of linen is that it gets softer over time. Each wash enhances its touch, creating bedding that becomes increasingly comfortable with use, truly an investment that pays off with every sleep. Linen’s slight texture adds to its charm, giving it a tactile quality that feels cosy without being heavy.
Its breathable nature keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter, ensuring optimal comfort throughout the year. For those seeking a restful night’s sleep with a touch of understated luxury, linen delivers comfort like no other.
2. Breathability and Temperature Regulation: Perfect for All Seasons
Linen bedding stands out for its exceptional breathability, making it an ideal choice for year-round comfort. Thanks to its natural flax fibres, linen allows air to flow freely, wicking away moisture and preventing heat buildup. This means you stay cool and comfortable during hot summer nights, while in winter, linen’s natural insulating properties help retain warmth for a cosy, snug sleep.
Cool in Summer, Warm in Winter
This remarkable ability to regulate temperature creates a sleep environment that adapts to your needs, ensuring uninterrupted rest regardless of the season. Unlike synthetic fabrics, which can trap heat and moisture, linen’s breathability keeps your body temperature in check, reducing night sweats and promoting better sleep quality.
Whether you’re facing sweltering summers or chilly winters, linen bedding provides consistent comfort that makes every night a restful retreat. It’s the perfect partner for a healthier, more rejuvenating sleep.
3. Moisture-Wicking Properties: Stay Fresh and Dry Throughout the Night
Linen bedding is a game-changer for anyone who struggles with night sweats or prefers a fresh, dry sleeping experience. Thanks to its natural moisture-wicking properties, pure linen sheets can absorb up to 20% of their weight in moisture without feeling damp. This means that even on warm, humid nights, linen draws sweat away from your body, helping you stay comfortable and dry.
Linen's Moisture Management for a Fresher Sleep
This ability to manage moisture doesn’t just enhance your sleep comfort, it also helps maintain a fresher bed. By reducing moisture buildup, linen minimises odours and creates a cleaner, healthier sleeping environment. What’s more, its quick-drying nature ensures that any absorbed moisture evaporates rapidly, further contributing to its breathable and refreshing qualities.
With linen bedding, you can enjoy peaceful nights without the sticky discomfort of damp sheets and reduce the need for frequent laundering, making it a practical and luxurious choice.
4. Lasts Forever
Linen is significantly stronger than cotton, being a robust material. This durability translates into linen sheets and other fabrics lasting for many years (and in good condition to boot). Cotton sheets, when correctly cared for, last around three to five years before showing signs of wear and tear. But linen fabric will only begin to shine after three years, so you can imagine how long it lasts after that point.
This is the very reason why linen bedding is more of a lifetime investment than anything. When properly cared for, linen can last decades.
5. Hypoallergenic and Antibacterial Qualities: Great for Sensitive Skin
Linen bedding offers more than just comfort and style, it’s also a fantastic choice for people with sensitive skin or allergies. Its natural hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties make it a healthier option for creating a clean, irritation-free sleeping environment.
Linen naturally resists dust mites, mould, and bacteria, helping to reduce common allergens that can trigger skin sensitivities or respiratory issues. This makes it an ideal choice for allergy sufferers or anyone seeking to enhance their sleep quality in a hygienic environment.
Hypoallergenic and Antibacterial Comfort
Linen’s moisture-wicking capabilities further prevent the buildup of dampness that can lead to bacteria or mould growth. By staying dry and fresh, linen creates a sleep environment that’s gentler on your skin and promotes better overall health. For those seeking bedding that’s as kind to their body as it is beautiful, linen’s hypoallergenic and antibacterial qualities make it an exceptional choice.
6. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable: A Responsible Choice for the Environment
Linen bedding isn’t just luxurious; it’s also an eco-friendly choice that aligns with sustainable living. Made from flax, a plant that thrives with minimal water and little to no pesticides, linen production has a much lower environmental impact compared to other materials like cotton. Its efficient growth process makes flax an incredibly resource-conscious crop, perfect for eco-minded consumers.
A Fully Biodegradable Fabric
Beyond its sustainable cultivation, linen is a natural and renewable resource that’s fully biodegradable. When its long lifespan finally comes to an end, linen breaks down naturally, leaving no harmful waste behind. This makes it a responsible alternative to synthetic fabrics that contribute to landfill pollution
Choosing linen bedding means supporting a material that values both quality and the planet. By investing in linen, you’re embracing a timeless, durable product that reduces your environmental footprint, a win for your home and the earth.
7. Low Maintenance and Easy Care: Linen Gets Better With Time
One of linen’s most appealing features is its low-maintenance nature, making it an ideal choice for those with busy lifestyles. Unlike other fabrics that demand meticulous care, linen bedding is refreshingly simple to manage while maintaining its luxurious feel.
The Low-Maintenance Charm of Linen
Linen naturally resists pilling and retains its integrity through countless washes. It improves over time, becoming softer and more comfortable with each cycle. There’s no need for frequent ironing, as linen’s relaxed, slightly crinkled texture is part of its charm, adding a casual elegance to your bedroom.
Its resilience and ease of care mean you can enjoy the beauty and comfort of linen bedding without the hassle. For individuals seeking bedding that combines practicality with timeless appeal, linen is a choice that effortlessly fits into any lifestyle.
8. Relaxed Aesthetic
Forget ironing your bedding, linen is meant to look wrinkled and relaxed. Some say that its natural creases make the fabric look even more high-end. Interior designer Lindye Galloway notes that linen bedding has been trending for several reasons, primarily due to its appearance. "The sheets offer a unique combination of luxury and comfort while having a simplistic look that can be seamlessly incorporated into various design styles."
Elks agrees. “It’s perfect for those looking for a luxurious, laidback aesthetic, as the rumpled textured look really elevates a space!”
Aesthetic Versatility
The beauty of linen lies in its versatility. Its organic look, subtle crinkles, and soft drape add depth and character, creating a cosy yet polished atmosphere. Available in a range of neutral and muted tones, as well as richer shades, linen can seamlessly blend into existing decor or stand out as a statement piece.
Functional Elegance
Beyond its visual appeal, linen’s functional qualities make it a practical choice for any bedroom. It strikes the perfect balance between casual comfort and refined sophistication, ensuring your space feels welcoming and well-curated. By investing in linen bedding, you can transform your bedroom into a serene haven of style and relaxation.
9. Year-round Temperature Regulation
Regardless of the season, linen will keep you comfortable by naturally regulating body temperature. By wicking away perspiration and promoting airflow, its breathable fibers keep you cool and dry all summer long. In winter, linen acts as a natural insulator, keeping you warm without overheating.
The Science Behind Linen's Adaptive Comfort
This temperature-regulating ability stems from the unique hollow structure of flax fibers, which efficiently absorbs and releases moisture. Unlike other textiles that could feel too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter, linen adapts to your body’s needs, eliminating the need for seasonal bedding changes.
10. Becomes Softer Over Time
Linen bedding improves with age, becoming softer and more comfortable with every wash while still retaining its durability. Though it may feel slightly crisp at first, linen gradually relaxes without weakening, unlike cotton, which tends to thin and wear out over time.
This lasting softness occurs because linen’s natural flax fiber breaks in gently without degrading. As a result, your bedding becomes cozier with every use, making linen a long-lasting choice.
11. Naturally Static-free and Anti-pilling
As a natural fiber, linen doesn’t produce the annoying clinginess that synthetic fabrics sometimes do. Unlike polyester and cotton, which tend to pill and lose their smooth look after regular use, linen stays fresh and neat over time. While synthetic fabrics often wear out and develop fuzzy patches over time, linen maintains its strength and quality, making sure your bedding looks excellent for a long time without showing signs of deterioration.
12. Less Ecological Impacts from the Source
In the same vein as its environmentally friendly traits, not only is the finished product safe for the environment, but the origin of its materials is also environmentally friendly. The flax plant is a very sustainable crop to produce and maintain. It requires significantly fewer resources to maintain and harvest than other popular bedding materials.
Up to 20% less water and energy are necessary for the production of linen as well. This means that fewer pesticides, fertilizers, and other potentially harmful chemicals are involved in the maintenance of the essential crops.
13. Medical Benefits
As mentioned above, linen has been widely recognized for its ability to improve skin conditions and alleviate the discomfort of individuals who typically suffer from allergies caused by bedding materials. The use of linen during sleep has even been shown to support wound healing due to its combination of antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Eczema is one of the many skin conditions that have been shown to improve with the use of linen bedding.
14. It’s Odor-resistant
Pure linen can actually help eliminate odors, and as we’ve mentioned, it works effectively to absorb excess moisture; this is how it helps suppress bacteria and other potentially harmful microorganisms.
15. It’s Great for Those with Sensitive Skin
We’ve already touched upon this in an earlier point, but it’s worth highlighting why linen is good for those with allergies, asthmatics, or dermatological disorders.
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How to Choose and Care for Linen Bedding
When choosing linen bedding, there are some factors that you should consider, such as:
The Quality of the Linen Fabric
The quality of the linen fabric depends on the origin, the type, and the weave of the flax fibers. The finest linen fabric originates from Europe, particularly France and Belgium, where flax plants thrive in optimal conditions and are carefully harvested and processed.
The best type of linen fabric is 100% pure linen, which means it does not contain any synthetic or blended fibers. The best weave of linen fabric is percale, which features a tight and smooth weave that is crisp and cool to the touch.
The Weight of the Linen Fabric
The weight of linen fabric indicates the thickness or density of the fabric. The higher the thread count, the heavier the weight. Think about how you sleep and whether or not you find yourself getting too warm or cold before deciding on what bedding you'd like.
Understanding Linen's "Thread Count" (and Why It Doesn't Matter as Much)
Most often, linen sheets fall somewhere between 150-200 threads per square inch, and, more importantly, are not an indicator of the quality of the fabric. People shop for linen because they love the way it looks, feels, and breathes. That being said, there are thinner (lighter) and thicker (heavier) options available on the market.
The Colour and the Design of the Linen Bedding
The colour and design of the linen bedding depend on your personal preference and the décor of your bedroom. Linen bedding can be plain-dyed or yarn-dyed, which affects the colour quality and the appearance of the fabric. Plain-dyed linen bedding means that the fabric is dyed after it is woven, which results in a solid and uniform colour.
Yarn-dyed linen bedding means that the yarns are dyed before they are woven, which results in a more nuanced and textured color.
Caring for Your Linen Bedding
Linen sheets don't require special cleaners or harsh chemicals, so they're easy to care for. 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 Linen Sheets
Like any bedding, you should wash linen sheets in cold water weekly with a mild detergent; dry them on a low heat setting (or, even better, on a clothesline). 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 beautiful linen sheets get the proper storage they deserve.)
Drying Best Practices
Do not dry your linen bedding in direct sunlight, as this may cause color fading. We recommend air drying in the shade, but if you're short on time or space, you can tumble dry on a low heat setting. Nevertheless, don't do this too often, as it may cause shrinkage.
Storing Linen Sheets
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 the linen sheets in white cotton, muslin (like an old pillowcase), or acid-free tissue paper first. This will further protect the sheets.
Iron your linen bedding while it is still slightly damp for best results if you prefer a crisp, neat look. You can also skip the ironing and embrace the natural wrinkles and creases of the fabric, which add to its organic vibe.
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Get Deep Sleep Every Night with Our Cloud-like Soft Fluffy Duvets
Yumerest's PureFlow Duvet transforms your bedroom into a luxurious sanctuary, enveloping you in cloud-like softness with its exceptional 5kg filling, which promotes more profound and more restorative sleep.
Unrivaled Temperature Regulation and Craftsmanship
This premium Canadian duvet stands apart from competitors like Happy Fluffy Cloud and Hush through its ethically sourced northern down that perfectly regulates temperature year-round—never too hot, just perfectly cozy. Crafted by expert artisans using techniques perfected since 1946, our duvets combine traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to deliver an unparalleled sleeping experience.
The PureFlow bundle, featuring our heavenly duvet, elegant cover, and calming sleep mist, creates a complete sleep sanctuary that helps busy professionals and parents finally achieve the rejuvenating rest they deserve.
Get deep sleep every night with our cloud-like fluffy duvets.
Who Can Benefit from Yumerest's PureFlow Duvet?
Yumerest's PureFlow Duvet is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their sleep quality. The duvet's exceptional temperature-regulating properties make it suitable for all sleepers, whether you sleep hot or cold. Unlike regular duvets, which can trap heat and create an uncomfortable sleeping environment, the PureFlow Duvet helps maintain your optimal body temperature throughout the night for deeper, more restorative sleep.
Ideal for Diverse Sleep Needs and Sensitive Skin
This makes it the ideal choice for couples with differing temperature preferences, as well as those experiencing night sweats or menopause symptoms. The PureFlow Duvet’s luxurious materials also offer a plush, gentle sleeping surface that can help soothe sensitive skin and prevent nighttime allergies.
What’s Inside Yumerest's PureFlow Duvet?
The first thing you’ll notice about Yumerest's PureFlow Duvet is its elegant, understated appearance. The duvet features a soft, breathable, 100% cotton cover that adds to the duvet’s luxurious aesthetic while promoting temperature regulation and moisture-wicking.
Open the PureFlow Duvet and you’ll discover the secret to its exceptional sleep benefits: a unique filling made from ethically sourced northern (or Canadian) down. This premium natural material is renowned for its insulating properties and temperature-regulating abilities.
Lightweight Luxury and Superior Construction
Yumerest's down is also lightweight and fluffy, creating a cozy sleeping environment without the heaviness of synthetic alternatives. The PureFlow Duvet’s filling is complemented by a meticulous baffle box construction that helps create pockets of air for optimal warmth and insulation while preventing the fill from shifting and clumping.
What’s Included in the Yumerest PureFlow Bundle?
Yumerest's PureFlow Duvet is available on its own or as part of an elegant sleep bundle. The PureFlow bundle is designed to create a complete sleep sanctuary that helps you achieve the rejuvenating rest you deserve.
In addition to the PureFlow Duvet, the bundle includes a luxurious duvet cover made from 100% breathable cotton to promote airflow and temperature regulation, as well as a soothing sleep mist formulated with calming essential oils to help you wind down and relax for sleep.
