The Learner Observer

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Why Choose Linen Bedding? (plus tips on caring for linen)

In the last 2 years, I have become a huge bedding snob. It's true. Ever since we tried our first linen bed sheets, I have not put anything else on our bed! Whenever the topic comes up in conversation (which happens often when one works in interior design), people always ask: "why choose linen bedding?" And here are all of the reasons I give...

*Note, this post is in partnership with Magic Linen, which I have been using for the last 3 months. All opinions are my own.

Linen is breathable

Ok, we can say this about other fabrics, but linen is different in the sense that it not only absorbs moisture well, it also dried very quickly, which is great for anyone who sleeps a little hot. And with that said, linen is also a natural insulator, meaning it magically keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter!

Linen is hypoallergenic and antibacterial

Linen is a hypoallergenic fabric, meaning it's great for anyone. It's also been said to be great for those with skin sensitivities and eczema. It can hold up to 20% of its own weight in water before feeling damp and can do so without holding on to bacteria.

Linen's sustainability

Because it's made from flax plants, which require much less water than cotton and can grow just about anywhere, linen is a more sustainable fabric. There is also no waste with the flax plants, as it's used to make linseed oil. When not dyed, linen is completely biodegradable as well!

Linen gets better with age

Not only will your linen bedding last a very long time (it can last for many decades as it's much stronger and more durable than cotton), it will also actually get better with age! The more linen is washed, the softer it gets.

The bedding you see in my room is from Magic Linen. I'm using their white linen sheet set, Pom Pom Trim Linen Duvet in natural stripe, Pom Pom Trim Linen Pillowcase in natural stripe, and the Beige Waffle Blanket. We've been using these for months, and they are by far our favourite bedding EVERRRRR! My husband agrees - we can never go back to cotton! 

With that said, we've learned a lot about how to care for linen bedding and I wanted to share some of our findings with you.

How to care for your linen bedding:

  1. Don't use fabric softener with linen - it doesn't need it, and fabric softeners can make fabrics line linen less absorbent.

  2. Pre-check pillowcases for oils or stains and treat them prior to washing.

  3. Avoid using bleach as it can weaken the fibres.

  4. Wash in warm to cool water temperatures.

  5. When possible, air dry. If, like me, that's not an option, tumble dry on low heat to about 90% then hang somewhere or place back on the bed (as long as you're not sleeping on it right away) to dry the rest of the way. This will help with wrinkles as well.

  6. Linen can be ironed when needed on the highest setting.

Have linen questions? Let me know in the comments!