The Linen vs Cotton Sheets Debate

How often do you think about your bed wear? Seeing as we spend almost a third of our lives in bed, it’s probably worth a bit more consideration. Quality sleep is essential for proper brain function, maintaining physical health, and generally feeling ready to handle the trials and tribulations that the day may throw at you.

Let’s understand what is the advantage of linen bedding compared to cotton sheets.

Where Does Cotton Come From?

Originating from natural fibres of the cotton plant, this material is a popular choice for bedding around the world and has been for many years. Multiple cotton fibres are woven together to create a durable, yet soft fabric, that can be crafted into a range of weights.

Where Does Linen Come From?

Linen is made from flax plant fibres and is extracted from the strongest section of the plant’s stem. What does linen feel like? Well, this woven fabric has a much thicker texture to it than its cotton counterpart, but over time, linen sheets will become softer after washing. Although the extraction process is more labour-intensive, many agree that the benefits outweigh the hard work. 

The Practicalities of Linen Bedding 

We think we can all agree that our preferred bedtime companion is one that can deliver both functionality and durability. For something that is used so often, it’s essential that we feel comfortable all year round. The question that is often asked is ‘can I have a linen duvet for cold climates?’ Of course, you can. Linen sheets actually retain the heat from your body, keeping you warm and cozy throughout the night. You can also wrap up tight, without worrying about overheating. This is because linen naturally wicks away moisture, ensuring a dry night for all, especially those of us who are sweaty sleepers.

So, that’s the cooler temperatures accounted for, but what about the hotter months? Is a linen duvet cover good for summer? And does linen bedding keep you cool too? Because of the way it’s made, linen is far more breathable than other fabrics, as air is able to flow more freely due to the nature of the looser weave. A linen duvet cover will ensure you are kept cool throughout the night, meaning that it’s also wonderful to choose a linen duvet for warm climates. 

Alternatively, while cotton is breathable, it is not as effective at regulating temperature as linen, as its tighter fibres can feel lovely and warm at first, but will soon trap the heat, making it an uncomfortable night for some.

If you're looking for a linen duvet cover made in Canada that provides comfort in all seasons, you'll find it offers both warmth in winter and breathability in summer, thanks to its exceptional craftsmanship and natural temperature-regulating properties.

Linen is not Just a Fashionable Choice

Didn’t you hear? Linen is becoming a firm favourite in the world of bedsheets and duvets. Why? Linen adds a luxurious touch to any room, thanks to its natural ‘lived-in’ aesthetic that is popular with celebrities and Instagrammers alike. Unlike cotton, it’s far less likely to pill over time, meaning that your sheets will be hard-wearing, and will still look immaculate, no matter how many hours you stay under the covers! Cotton does come in a variety of different colours compared to linen, but let’s not forget those natural tones that have become extremely popular over the years, and without the need to iron, it’s no surprise that linen takes the prize for its appearance. 

But of course, style isn’t everything when it comes to your covers, so we must ask are linen sheets comfortable? We’ve already discussed that you’ll maintain a perfect temperature whilst sleeping with linen, but how does it actually feel on your skin? At first, you’ll notice a difference in texture between linen vs cotton sheets, but this will reduce over time. If you’re not used to it, linen can feel coarse at first but it will keep getting softer the more you wash it. With our prewashed linen, you’ll never have to worry about it shrinking, so wash until your heart's content, without the battle to fit it to your mattress.

Linen bedding offers the ultimate blend of comfort and style, creating a restful sleep environment. This same balance is reflected in women's linen pant suits, which provide breathable sophistication for any occasion, and plus size linen pants, ensuring everyone enjoys the natural comfort and versatility that linen brings.

Now you know the facts, you’ll never have to wonder why is linen so comfy again!

How Does Linen Impact the Environment Compared with Cotton Sheets?

Flax plants require very little energy and resources and only need a small amount of rainwater to grow, making linen a far more sustainable fabric compared to cotton and other materials. Thanks to their durability, linen sheets can be used time and time again, reducing the need to repurchase every few years like you would with cotton. Linen is also biodegradable, so even when you are ready to part ways with your bedding, you know you are not harming the environment. 

The Value of Linen Sheets 

One of the downsides of linen sheets is that they are initially more expensive than their cotton counterparts. With that being said, if you consider them an investment piece, then they are well worth the initial cost. Because they don’t need replacing nearly as often, over time, you will spend far less on bedding than you would if you chose cotton sheets. Considering the impact sleep has on our health and wellbeing, some would say that having a luxury slumber is priceless. And of course, we’ve already discussed the cost to the environment if you choose alternate, more synthetic fabrics.

Linen vs Cotton Sheets - The Final Result 

At Cedar & Vine, we focus on providing high-quality linen bedding that combines unmatched comfort with a commitment to sustainable craftsmanship.

Having a greater knowledge of linen vs cotton sheets can support you in making an educated decision when choosing your bedroom attire, and hopefully, we have helped you to achieve this today. So, why do people like linen duvet covers? The answer seems pretty obvious to us now. With their breathability, longevity, on-trend style and sustainability, linen sheets make an excellent choice. Although cotton is a cheaper alternative, you may pay an alternative price, in terms of overheating, the cost of replacing your bedding when worn out, and the impact on the environment. Next time you’re shopping and pondering between linen vs cotton sheets, upgrade both your room and your sleep quality by choosing deluxe linen bedsheets.