There is so much to love about linen. Not only does this ancient fabric offer effortless and timeless style, it’s also extremely progressive and easy on the planet. We’ve listed our five top reasons why going back to the past is the future for bedding.
1. Linen is a natural fibre that has little impact on the environment
Derived from the resilient flax plant, linen can grow successfully with limited use of herbicides, pesticides, or other chemicals. It also requires very little water to grow compared to the likes of cotton, thriving with just rainwater and without irrigation.
It’s also practically zero waste as all of the flax plant can be used - with demand for flax seeds/linseeds and oils growing thanks to the wealth of nutritional and health benefits they possess. The process of turning the flax plant into linen is also entirely natural and free of any chemicals.
80% of the world’s linen is produced in Europe (ours is in France), making it much easier to trace production and ensure it’s being grown to strict regulations. It also ensures that the carbon footprint brought about by its production is at the bare minimum – we’ve also ensured that carbon brought about my its manufacturing is also at a minimum through a short supply-chain that’s European-based.
Finally, being a natural fibre it's also biodegradable - meaning that it doesn't add to landfill.
2. Linen is considered to be the strongest and most durable natural fibre
Linen’s strength can be attributed to the weight and length of the cellulose fibres that are taken directly from the flax stem and spun into threads. These threads can have a stiff feeling initially due to their long-fibre composition.
A beautiful thing about linen is that it ages like a fine wine. As it becomes softer with every wash and still maintains its strength, linen can be been passed down between generations. Historically, the initial stiffness could put off consumers; however, recent innovations in mechanical stone washing ensures that even new linen is superbly soft.
3. Linen is easy to care for
One of our favourite things about linen is that it doesn’t need to be ironed - the natural creases are what gives it relaxed feel. Also, as it naturally softens with age, it doesn’t need any artificial fabric softeners. In fact, we advise against that and to let nature run its course. We’ve written up some more tips on how to care for your bedding if you’re interested.
4. Linen is extremely breathable and absorbent
As linen fibres are hollow, it’s a highly breathable and heat conductive fabric. It’s also highly absorbent, being able to absorb up to 20% of its dry weight in moisture without feeling damp to touch.
In winter months, the hollow fibres insulate body heat, keeping you nice and cosy. During summer, linen allows air to circulate more freely (particularly compared tight sateen cotton weaves), whilst wicking away any moisture that builds up—helping to keep you cool and dry.
5. Linen is naturally hypoallergenic
As it requires very few pesticides, fertilisers and chemicals to grow, manufacture and care for afterwards, linen naturally won’t cause allergic reactions found with other fabrics, particularly synthetics. Its ability absorb moisture and then dry quickly, also makes it harder for bacteria and fungus to grow – helping prevent allergies and bad odours.