These picks are soft, breathable, and comfortable.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/bhg-product-quince-european-linen-sheet-set-dburreson-011-1-62cde44840114361b575b1f8f2a60c65.jpeg "bed made with Quince European Linen Sheet Set")
Better Homes & Gardens / Dera Burreson
Linen is known for its breathability, lived-in look, and textured feel that softens over time. While the material is great for clothing, it also makes for great sheets, especially for those who are warm sleepers.
With so many options out there, it can be hard to decipher which linen set is the best option for your home. Fortunately, we’ve tested hundreds of the best sheets in our testing lab and right at home for up to six months. We also consulted Saana Baker, a textile expert, for more information on what to look for in a set of linen sheets.
What We Tested
We evaluated nine sets of linen sheet sets on their quality, texture, and breathability, durability. For more information on how we tested linen sheets, check out our testing process below.
Best Overall: Bokser Home French Linen Sheet Set
Why You Should Get It
These linen sheets keep you cool and become softer and cozier with each wash.
Keep in Mind
You may experience small pilling and a slight color fade.
The Bokser Home French Linen Sheet Set is our top pick for its quality, and lightweight feel. The sheets got softer with each wash and after six months of testing, we’d recommend giving them a try.
If we had to describe Bokser’s linen sheets, we would compare them to your favorite linen summer shirt, worn and broken in and soft yet breezy. When we first slept on the sheets, they felt a bit stiff and coarse, but after the third wash, they started to feel like luxurious linen.
Although the linen’s texture is lightweight and breathable, it also has a slight heaviness to it that feels like a comforting hug, which is perfect for cooler nights. Even when we fell asleep in jeans and a sweatshirt, we didn’t experience any night sweats or overheating.
We did experience a tiny amount of pilling and a slight color fade where we lay, but it wasn’t too obvious, so we didn’t think it was a dealbreaker.
Overall, we think the Bokser Home French Linen Sheets are a great addition to any bed set. They feel luxurious and are offered in several colors, so you can select an option that suits your bedroom best.
Product Details: Pocket Size: 16 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king | Certifications: OEKO-Tex standard 100
Key Terms to Know
OEKO-TEX Standard 100: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is a label given to products that have been made without substances deemed harmful by OEKO-TEX.
Best Budget: Quince European Linen Sheet Set
Why You Should Get It
This linen sheet set is lightweight and airy—perfect for summer.
Keep in Mind
The pillowcases are quite large with no closure, so you may experience a lot of movement.
The Quince European Linen Sheet Set is less expensive than most reputable brands’ linen sheets. However, the set is still made of 100 percent European linen, and after six months of testing them at home, we can confirm they’re high quality.
Most linen sheets we tested needed a break-in period, but this Quince set was already soft and airy when we opened it. After six months of testing and multiple cycles in the washing machine, the sheets became thinner and softer than when we first tested them. With a barely-there feel, these linen sheets make for a great summer bed set.
These sheets are offered in 29 colors and six sizes, so there are plenty of options to choose from. If you prefer a pattern, we also tested the Gingham style and loved those as well.
The European linen pillowcases are on the large side, and they have no side closure, which we didn’t care for. Overall, however, we think this pick is a great, high- quality set with an even better price tag, especially given that it’s made of 100 percent linen.
Product Details: Pocket Size: 16 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX standard 100
Best Splurge: Saatva Linen Sheet Set
Why You Should Get It
This linen sheet set proved to be durable, high-quality, and moisture-wicking.
Keep in Mind
A lot of lint is left behind after washing.
Although the Saatva Linen Sheet Set is more expensive than other sets, we think it’s a high-quality pick that is worth every penny. After testing it in our testing lab and at home, we highly recommend this sheet set.
Like most linen, these sheets had a rough texture out of the box. But after washing them on a gentle and cold cycle, we immediately noticed the difference in softness. Although quite a bit of lint was left behind throughout the six-month testing period at home, the sheets continued to get softer and less rough each time.
During testing, we could feel the difference in quality with its weight alone, compared to other options we tested. These sheets feel high-quality without being overly heavy, which was appreciated. If you’re a warm sleeper, note that these Belgian linen sheets are super breathable and moisture-wicking. We didn’t wake up clammy or hot—not a single night.
In terms of durability, we didn’t experience any color fade or stains, nor were there any rips or tears, even with our dog clawing and tugging. While these are pricier than some other picks we think the quality makes them worth the investment.
Product Details: Pocket Size: 16 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX standard 100
Best Bamboo Blend: Cozy Earth Linen Sheet Set
Why You Should Get It
Stains completely lifted after washing, and the fitted sheet indicators make putting on the sheets a breeze.
Keep in Mind
These linen sheets aren’t as soft after washing.
The Cozy Earth Linen Sheet Set offers a cozy blend of linen and bamboo that’s ideal for warm sleepers.
Like the Quince European Linen Sheet Set, this Cozy Earth set doesn’t require a break-in period and already comes soft. However, we found the sheet’s texture slightly rough after washing instead of softening up, which could be due to its bamboo blend. But they do become softer in between laundering and after laying on them each night.
Whether you have an accidental coffee spill or forget to wash your makeup off before bed, note that after a quick cold cycle in the wash during testing, those types of stains were completely lifted. During lab testing, it was as if the oil and coffee stains were never there, whereas the foundation left a slight mark.
When it comes to breathability, the sheets feel cool to the touch. They aren’t the most airy, but instead are right in the middle, at a comfortable temperature to fall asleep to. As hot sleepers who usually wake up in the middle of the night due to night sweats, the number of restless nights went from seven days a week to none, but that’s with no comforter on hot nights. Overall, we think these linen-blend sheets are perfect for spring and fall, but may be too warm for summer.
While the price is higher than other sets, we think this sheet set will last you many seasons. Its cooling element works great for night sweats, and there are no such things as stubborn stains with this set. We do wish these sheets came in more colors, but the light gray and natural color complements most duvets and comforters.
Product Details: Pocket Size: 20 inches | Sizes: Twin/twin XL, full, queen, king and California king | Certifications: Not listed
Best Color Options: West Elm European Flax Linen Sheet Set
Why You Should Get It
This sheet set is offered in over 20 colors and has a heavier feel to it.
Keep in Mind
They aren’t as breathable as some other options we tested.
West Elm’s European Flax Linen Sheet Set is offered in 27 colors, so it’s a great set of linen sheets if you’re looking for bold color options or decorative patterns.
We love how much heavier this sheet set is compared to most linen, which has a gauzy, more translucent look. Since these West Elm sheets are on the more solid side, when testing, we noticed this set has no breathability or airflow, even when standing right in front of the fan, so they may not be ideal for particularly warm sleepers.
We placed a drop of water on these sheets in our testing lab and these sheets proved to be highly moisture-wicking. So, while they’re not the most breezy, we’re confident we won’t wake up feeling clammy.
While these sheets are durable and constructed with well-made European flax linen, they arrive neither soft nor rough. But like most linen, the fabric softens up after washing. However, we did notice the washed sheets were more wrinkled than before, and the flat sheet had a bit of scratchiness to them.
Product Details: Pocket Size: 16 inches | Sizes: Full, queen, king, and California king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX standard 100
The Bottom Line
Overall, our favorite linen sheets were the Bokser Home French Linen Sheet Set. We liked that this set was cooling and became softer with each wash. Plus, the lightweight sheets are offered in several color options, so you can choose which suits your bedroom best.
Our Testing Process
To find the best linen sheets, we evaluated 15 sets on their quality, texture, breathability, and durability. Tests were conducted in our Des Moines, Iowa testing lab, as well as in our own homes for six months.
Before washing the sheets, we inspected each set for loose and uneven threads, snags, discoloration, and other imperfections. Then, the sheets (not pillowcases) were washed on a cold cycle and dried on medium heat.
Next, we placed coffee, oil, and foundation to sheets and let the stains sit for one hour. The sheets were then washed two more times and dried once on the same medium heat cycle.
After the sheets had been washed three times, we compared the look and feel to the unwashed pillowcases. We noted any imperfections and shrinkage, as well as if the stains were still visible.
To test breathability in the testing lab, we held the sheet four feet in front of a boxed fan. We secured the bottom and held the top in front of us, noting if we could feel any air coming through.
Then, we took a dropper and placed one drop of water on the sheets, noting how quickly it moved within 10 seconds. If it moved quickly, that meant the sheets had good moisture management.
To evaluate quality in the testing lab, we made the bed and went under the top sheet. We noted the feel of the fabric and how well the fitted sheet stayed secure on the mattress when we tossed and turned.
For our last test in the lab, we rubbed sandpaper on the sheet 50 times. We determined durability by how well the abraded area was able to stand up to the sandpaper.
Better Homes & Gardens / Jamie Weissman
Other Linen Sheet Sets We Tested
The Citizenry Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set
The Citizenry Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set is well-constructed with no loose threads, beautiful finished seams, and a solid, heavy fabric. While we were able to feel a bit of wind from the fan, it wasn’t enough to confidently say these are breathable linen sheets.
Coyuchi Organic Relaxed Linen Sheet Set
Overall, we were impressed with the quality of the Coyuchi Organic Relaxed Linen Sheet Set, which felt heavier than other ses we tried. After rigorously testing, there were no stains, piling, or any color fading. However, compared to other linen sheet sets we’ve tested that soften after washing, these sheets softened but still seemed to have a nubby feel.
Parachute Heirloom Tencel Linen Sheet Set
We loved the Parachute Heirloom Tencel Linen Sheet Set for its consistent softness and comfort, even with it being a linen blend. This set is also breathable and great for hot sleepers. During testing, we didn’t wake up warm or uncomfortable while using them. However, we did experience an excessive amount of wrinkling and shedding, and given its high price, we felt it should have performed better.
Better Homes & Gardens / Dera Burreson
What to Know About Linen Sheets Before Shopping
Pocket Size
Before purchasing your linen sheet set, it’s important to measure the depth of your mattress to ensure a perfect snug fit. Each sheet’s product description should list the pocket’s measurements. And if you have a mattress topper, make sure to add a few inches to the mattress height.
Care Instructions
Linen is a durable natural fiber that can typically withstand higher washing temperatures than other sheets. But each sheet set is different, so when it comes to washing and taking care of your linen, it’s important to read the care label for detailed instructions.
A break-in period is pretty common for linen sheets, as they often start off feeling rough and soften after each wash. For a comfortable sleeping experience, we recommend washing your new linen bedding before you indulge.
“Linen fabric has a bit of a hard hand to it but with time it wears really beautifully, so gets softer when you wash it,” says Baker. “The breaking-in period is shorter nowadays because most linens are stonewashed to start that process.”
Certifications
While shopping for the best linen sheets, you may notice several labels. The two most common certifications are GOTS and OEKO-TEX.
- GOTS: The Global Organic Textile Standard ensures that a product’s entire supply chain is organic. It is considered the gold standard when choosing organic products.
- OEKO-TEX Standrd 100: The certification ensures that the product is made without specific substances deemed harmful by the OEKO-TEX institute. Most options on our list have this label.
Your Questions, Answered
How much can I expect to spend on linen sheets?
Linen sheets are generally more expensive than cotton, with prices ranging from $179 to $558 and a median price of $285. The origin of the linen can also play a role in price, with linen from Belgium, France, and Lithuania being of higher quality and priced even higher.
Our best splurge pick, the Saatva Linen Sheet Set, is made of Belgian linen and is $395 for a queen set. There’s a set of pillowcases for an additional $85 as well. The Quince European Linen Sheet Set, our best budget set, is $130 for a queen set that includes a set of pillowcases.
What are the benefits of linen sheets?
Linen is a breathable and airy material, which is ideal for hot sleepers and summer bedding. The breathable fabric also helps regulate moisture, so you won’t wake up sweaty and clammy. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, you’ll be happy to know that linen sheets are also hypoallergenic.
Although more expensive than other materials, linen sheets are also quite durable and a long-lasting fabric. We found that some sheet sets did feel a bit rough at first and required a break-in period, but they softened over time.
“Some people have linen sheets that they pass down,” says Baker. “There’s a character to them — if you love them, you love them. They have an interesting sort of personality.”
Who We Are
Kenedee Fowler is a commerce writer for Better Homes & Gardens, specializing in bedding, bath, home furnishings, and more. For this article, Fowler referenced our six-month testing insights on the best linen sheets, as well as her personal experience with linen bedding that she’s had for two years.
We consulted Saana Baker, a textile expert with 25 years of experience and the editor-in-chief at The Textile Eye, a trend and show report on high-end home textiles, surface design, fiber arts, and interior design based in San Francisco.
What is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed our BHG Recommends seal of approval. Products that earn the seal have been put through rigorous testing to make sure they’re worth a spot in your home. We buy most of the products we test ourselves, but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying isn’t an option. In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.
For more Better Homes & Gardens news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!
Read the original article on Better Homes & Gardens.
We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
English