Buying guide
Linen bedding: the guide to choosing well
Cool in summer, cosy in winter and softer with every wash: linen is the material that changes a bed the most. Here is what to check before you choose.
Why sleep in linen
Linen fibre absorbs moisture and releases it quickly, so the bed stays dry at night and temperature regulates itself. That is why linen feels cool in summer and pleasant in winter. Its long, strong fibre also gives it a long life: well-cared-for linen bedding lasts for years.
Washed or raw linen?
Washed (or stone-washed) linen is washed before it is sewn. It is soft from day one, lightly crinkled and barely shrinks any more. Raw linen starts firmer and softens over time. For a relaxed, no-iron bed, washed linen is the easiest choice.
Choosing the right sizes
Choose the duvet cover to fit the duvet, not the bed. Common sizes are 140 × 200 cm (single), 200 × 200 cm (double), 220 × 240 or 240 × 220 cm (king) and 260 × 240 cm (super king). For the fitted sheet, measure the width, length and depth of the mattress, topper included. A 35 cm pocket fits most deep mattresses and stays in place thanks to the all-round elastic. For pillows, 50 × 70 cm and 60 × 60 or 65 × 65 cm are the most common.
Colours that age well
Natural linen, off-white and greys are the safe choices: they mix with each other and with wood, rattan or matte ceramics. For a warmer bed, pair a neutral duvet cover with sage, terracotta or dusty pink pillowcases. The light crinkle of washed linen is part of its charm.
Care: simple and iron-free
- Machine wash at 40 °C on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent; no bleach.
- Wash dark colours separately for the first few washes.
- Line dry or tumble dry on low; take it out slightly damp to avoid sharp creases.
- Ironing is optional: placed on the bed while still damp, linen relaxes on its own.
How many sets?
Two sets per bed let you alternate between washing and drying. A complete set (flat sheet, fitted sheet and pillowcases) is the most economical way to start; choose the duvet cover afterwards by season and colour.
Read next: How to wash linen sheets · Linen vs cotton sheets
