Annie Southam
Time to hunker down and get cozy in your bedroom retreat! We’ve been investigating the staying power of quality linen bedding this month. Soft and durable, a little investment in a proper sheet set can be passed down to future generations. Learn more about 100% flax weaves and the benefits of natural fibers. Linen helps you stay cool in the summer and keeps you warm as the temperatures start to drop.
100% Flax Linen Bedding
The hollow structure of flax fibers is what allows linen to breathe. Pure linen bedding is thermoregulating, which enables you to stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It can absorb up to 20% of it’s weight before it even starts to feel wet. It dries just as quickly, which makes it perfect for bed linens and towels. Usually French and Belgium-grown flax is considered to be highest quality. One thing we have learned, is that it is a very painstaking process to produce premium linen fabrics. Be sure to look for certified high grade flax if you want the best in your linens.
Environmentally Friendly
Flax is also one of the oldest textiles in the world and is grown primarily in Western Europe. It does not require irrigation and is a highly sustainable plant. Flax is a renewable resource, which makes your linen bedding just as gentle on Mother Nature. You will be happy to learn very few pesticides are required in the production of flax. It is harvested through natural processes and most harvesters can boast zero waste. The entire crop can be used for linseed oil, linoleum, and fabric. Pure linen is also biodegradable and can be recycled.
Banish Cotton
Linen is also naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial. It has the ability to filter and ventilate against moisture and bacteria, which makes it perfect for the bedroom. Most allergy sufferers proclaim they will never go back to cotton once they have experienced the hypoallergenic properties of linen bedding. If you suffer from nasal or skin sensitivity, you are a terrific candidate for linen. Look for organic and GOTS certified collections from companies like Libeco Home.
Au Naturale
Linen is twice as strong as cotton and quality weaves can last generations. Transforming flax fibers into quality linen bedding is considered an art form. The fibers are very difficult to weave and require special craftsmen. Shop for colors like flax, natural, or oyster if you prefer fabric that hasn’t been dyed. We love specialty textile companies like Los Angeles-based Morrow. They rigorously test fabrics for strength, quality of construction, fading, and texture. Good linen should be able to take a beating!
Bring On The Sun
Did you know? Linen naturally resists UV rays. Good linen bedding is generally densely woven and and has a high SPF. Since light colors resist harmful UV rays, they are recommended for sun protection. Look for linens on the lighter side with fun details like pinstripes and pearl buttons. They don’t weigh down duvets if you like your bed a little loftier.
Sensory Experience
You will find sleeping on linen quite different than other fabrics. Linen bedding is buttery soft and feels great against your skin. High-end pure linen sheets are ultra luxurious and just get better with time. (This is similar to our favorite Mexican blankets, which get softer with each wash.) Enjoy linen’s cool, crisp texture as you slip into bed and stay cozy all night long.
Heirloom Bedding
This week, we focused on Virgo and their penchant for quality handcrafted goods. Linen bedding is soft and durable and one sheet set can last decades. Take a cue from this family-oriented sign and invest in linens that you can pass down to future generations. These are the things you can enjoy in the present and your children will cherish in the future!