A Considered Choice: Linen vs. Cotton
It’s a question the IN BED team is asked on a regular basis: linen or cotton, and what - exactly - is the difference? It’s a deeply personal answer, so here we lay out the facts you need to make a decision that works for you, and your bedroom. That being said, don't be afraid to mix & match these two versatile textiles: have confidence in contrast.
Cool & crisp organic cotton percale in Pure White & Milk
Linen carries with it a sense of ease. Woven from flax, its fibres are slightly irregular, giving the fabric that gently lived-in, undone texture. There’s also a practicality to linen; it breathes easily, making it ideal for warm nights or restless sleepers. It absorbs moisture without clinging, helping to regulate temperature if you run hot. Our collection of linen bedding is made in Europe, entirely traceable from seed to final stitch, and offered in a selection of timeless colours that evolve slowly, just like our manufacturing process.
Our 100% Linen in Lilac, Kohl, Cocoa, Chestnut, Lake & Dove Grey
If, by contrast you love a crisp and polished finish, cotton percale might be the answer. The secret to super soft cotton bedding is our use of 100% long staple cotton which results in a smoother, silkier finish due to fewer exposed fibres. Where linen invites a kind of relaxed imperfection, cotton leans toward refinement. It holds its structure, commands clean lines and a sense of luxury: like waking up in your favourite hotel every morning. Think tucked corners, crisp pillowslips and a light, airy night’s sleep. It’s our favourite for the warmer months, while linen is our go-to for cosiness. The two also pair beautifully together, for a contrast of textures.
A combination of crisp cotton and lived-in linen
Flax is more labour-intensive to produce, and the resulting fabric reflects that investment. Our organic cotton, while still holding the highest level of accreditations (including GOTS, OEKO-TEX® & STANDARD100) is a little more affordable, while being hard-wearing enough to withstand the demands of a busy household. Both linen & cotton are straightforward to care for, we recommend a lukewarm wash, line dry and to rotate your sets often.
In the end, the choice depends largely on your lifestyle. If you’d like to know more about how our fabrics are made, you can read on here. Likewise, feel free to chat with a helpful member of our team via our website. We also welcome you to visit us in store at our Paddington flagship, or request a sample swatch to your door - to feel the contrast for yourself.
Our Organic Cotton Percale in Milk, in the home of interior designer, Emily Evans
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