How to Sleep Better with Organic Cotton Flat Sheets

How to Sleep Better with Organic Cotton Flat Sheets
Do you want to sleep better, feel healthier, and save the planet at the same time? Switching to organic cotton flat sheets can make all the difference. Not only are these sheets incredibly soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, but they are also eco-friendly and durable, enhancing both your sleep quality and overall well-being. Cotton has long been the go-to choice for luxury bedding, and opting for high-quality organic cotton ensures luxurious comfort without harmful chemicals. This eco-conscious choice not only benefits the environment but also nurtures your skin. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of organic cotton flat sheets and provide tips on choosing and caring for them. Let’s discover how this simple change can impact your lifestyle. 

In the realm of luxury textiles, few materials command the reverence that cashmere does. This extraordinary fibre represents more than clothing – it embodies a legacy of craftsmanship, comfort and conscious luxury that aligns perfectly with Rise & Fall's values of simplicity, integrity and longevity.

Understanding what cashmere is opens the door to appreciating why this material has captivated the fashion obsessed for centuries. Our complete guide explores the journey from fibre to finished garment, helping you understand the value in luxury cashmere clothing that will grace your wardrobe for years to come.

What Is Cashmere?

Cashmere fibre is a precious natural material renowned for its exceptional softness and lightweight warmth.

The extraordinary nature of cashmere yarn lies in its microscopic structure. Each fibre measures approximately 14-19 microns in diameter, around half the diameter of human hair, creating its characteristic softness that makes cashmere so coveted. This fineness, combined with the fibre's natural bunching, creates tiny air pockets that provide exceptional insulation.

 Where Does Cashmere Wool Come From?

Cashmere comes from the cashmere goats found in the harsh, mountainous regions of Central and East Asia. This specific breed has adapted to the extreme temperatures found here (which can fall as low as -30°C), leading to the evolution of a soft undercoat, or cashmere wool, as we know today.

Cashmere origin traces primarily to:

  • Inner Mongolia, China: Considered to be where the world’s best grade-A cashmere comes from. The goats develop the finest undercoat, producing the finest yarns and measuring in at 15.5 microns and 34-36mm in length. While considered as the gold standard for cashmere production, these luxurious fibres make up less than 10% of the world's cashmere supply.
  • Kashmir (India): The historical cashmere wool origin that gave the fibre its name.
  • Nepal, Iran and Afghanistan: Additional sources known for quality cashmere clothing materials.

Our range of trans-seasonal cashmere goods come directly from Mongolia’s most renowned manufacturers. Having a close relationship with them, not only allows us to create the most buttery-soft cashmere but we can support fair pay and safe working conditions. With no middlemen and no crazy markups, we’re able to pass the savings straight onto our customer. Just exceptional value with integrity” (Susan Ramaty, Rise & Fall’s Design Consultant).

What is Cashmere Typically Used For?

The versatility of cashmere extends far beyond traditional sweaters, encompassing an entire wardrobe of luxury pieces, from delicate scarves to structured coats. Cashmere wool clothing includes:

  • Sweaters and cardigans
  • Wraps and scarves
  • Lightweight, layerable pieces
  • Statement coats

At Rise & Fall we craft pieces that honour the fibres natural versatility, creating a collection that moves effortlessly from professional settings to intimate gatherings.

How Is Cashmere Manufactured?

The transformation from wool to garment involves a meticulous process that determines the final quality of cashmere yarn:

  • Combing and Collection: Unlike sheep shearing, cashmere collection involves careful combing during the goats' natural molting season. This gentle process preserves fibre integrity while ensuring animal welfare.
  • Sorting and Washing: Raw cashmere undergoes careful sorting by colour, length and fineness. Multiple washing stages remove natural oils and impurities without impacting fibre quality.
  • Dehairing: The most critical step separates the precious cashmere undercoat from coarser guard hairs. This process requires specialised machinery and expert oversight to preserve the finest fibres
  • Dyeing, Carding and Teasing: Fibres are dyed using low-temperature methods, then carded to align them uniformly. Teasing creates the loft that gives cashmere its characteristic volume.
  • Spinning: The prepared fibres are spun into cashmere yarn with careful attention to tension and twist, ensuring strength without compromising softness. Using long Mongolian fibres means the yarns have fewer ties and exposed ends, resulting in exceptional quality and unparalleled softness.
  • Weaving or Knitting: Finally, the yarn is transformed into fabric through weaving or knitting techniques that give the material structure.

The Difference Between Cashmere & Other Wools?

What Is Organic Cotton Bedding?

Definition of organic cotton

Organic cotton is grown without harmful chemicals, keeping the soil, air, and water free from contaminants. This means the entire manufacturing process, from start to finish, avoids synthetic pesticides, fertilisers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Certified organic cotton follows strict guidelines to ensure it is produced sustainably, protecting the environment and providing a healthier product for consumers. 

Benefits of organic cotton over conventional cotton

Organic cotton boasts several advantages over conventional cotton. Not only is it softer and more breathable, but it is less likely to cause skin irritation, providing a more comfortable and gentle feel. Additionally, organic cotton is more durable and longer-lasting. Free from harmful chemicals, organic cotton offers a safer and healthier option for both you and the environment. Below are some key benefits of organic cotton:

  • Reduced Pollution: No chemical pesticides or fertilisers entering the air, soil, or water
  • Improved Health: No exposure to harmful chemicals that can impact your health
  • Natural Growth: No genetic modification or interference with natural processes
  • Fair Trade: Better working conditions and fair wages for farmers and their families

Chemical-free farming

Conventional cotton farming relies heavily on harmful chemical pesticides and fertilisers, which can severely damage local ecosystems, water quality, and biodiversity. In contrast, organic cotton farming avoids these nasty synthetic chemicals, using natural methods such as crop rotation, composting, and biological pest control. These practices not only enhance the soil quality and reduce pollution of air and water resources, but they also protect the health of farmers. By using cover crops and crop rotation this naturally replenishes soil nutrients, preventing degradation and promoting long-term agricultural sustainability. This results in a purer, safer product for consumers and a healthier environment.  

Eco-friendliness

Choosing organic cotton bedding is an eco-friendly decision. Organic farming practices use less water, maintain soil fertility, and promote biodiversity. By eliminating harmful chemicals, organic cotton production minimises pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a healthier planet. 

Breathability and comfort

Organic cotton sheets are known for their comfort and breathability. Crafted from natural, pesticide-free fibres organic cotton allows air to circulate, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout the night. Super soft and gentle against your skin, organic cotton sheets offer a luxurious feel. If you suffer from allergies or sensitive skin, organic cotton sheets are a great choice as they are hypoallergenic. 

What is Organic Cotton and How is it Different from Conventional Cotton?

Cotton, often referred to as ‘white gold’ due to its widespread use as a fibre, has also earned the reputation of being the ‘dirtiest crop’. This is because it utilises more chemical pesticides than any other major crop. Each year, conventional cotton production accounts for 16% of the world’s insecticides and approximately 6% of the world’s pesticides. These highly toxic chemicals contaminate groundwater, degrade soil quality, and release harmful greenhouse gases that contribute significantly to climate change. Besides their detrimental environmental impact, these chemicals also pose serious health risks to farmers. Furthermore, cotton is an extremely water-intensive crop, requiring around 2,700 litres of water to produce enough fibre for a single T-shirt - equivalent to the amount of water one person would typically drink over three years. 

In contrast, organic cotton is cultivated without synthetic chemicals or pesticides, using natural methods like crop rotation and composting to maintain healthy soil. This approach reduces water consumption, as non-GMO seeds and pesticide-free soil require less water. Additionally, most organic cotton is grown on small-scale rainfed farms, leading to a nearly 90% reduction in ‘blue’ water (from groundwater and surface-water bodies like lakes and rivers) usage compared to conventional cotton. This sustainable approach not only produces softer, more durable fibres but also supports biodiversity and conserves water.Choosing organic cotton sheets supports fair trade practices, ensuring farmers receive fair wages and work in safe conditions. Embracing organic cotton represents a significant step towards sustainable and ethical responsibility.

Pro Tips for Keeping Your Organic Cotton Flat Sheets Fresh

A Guide to Washing and Caring

One of the great things about organic cotton bedding is that it gets softer and softer with every wash. This is because the natural fibres relax and become more pliable over time. However, following the care instructions is essential to maintain its quality and ensure longevity. We recommend washing your sheets once a week. 

  • Washing: Separate your organic cotton bedding from your other laundry, as any rough fabrics, hooks or zips may cause damage. Wash with a mild detergent in cold or lukewarm water such as  30℃ and opt for a gentle spin cycle. 
  • Drying: Air-drying is  the best option to reduce energy consumption and maintain the bedding cotton quality. Alternatively, use a dryer on a low-heat setting.
  • Ironing: If using a dryer, try removing the sheets 5 minutes before the cycle ends. Give them a good shake and hang dry to finish - this will keep them from wrinkling, meaning you don’t need to iron them. If you would still like to iron your sheets, do so at a low temperature. 
  • Storage: Store bed linen in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness.

Simple steps to maintain your organic sheets

To maintain the quality of your organic cotton flat sheets make sure to follow the above washing instructions. Avoid using bleach or harsh fabric softeners, as these can damage the fibres, reducing their lifespan. Air dry your sheets whenever possible to preserve their softness and durability. Wash your sheets regularly to maintain freshness and if you have a spare pair of sheets, alternate between these each time you change your bedding. 

How to store your sheets for longevity

When you are not using your sheets, you should fold them neatly and place them in a designated storage area. Avoid overcrowding to prevent wrinkles and creases. Proper storage is essential to keeping your sheets fresh. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You could use breathable storage bags to help prevent moisture buildup. 

colour_White Navy Piping

Why Rise & Fall Organic Cotton Flat Sheets are Your Dream Choice

Affordable Luxury

At Rise & Fall, we believe that everyone deserves the luxury and comfort of high-quality organic cotton sheets without the hefty price tag. While organic cotton sheets are often more expensive compared to regular cotton, due to the eco-friendly production processes, we strive to make them accessible. By partnering with India’s leading bedding manufacturer, we eliminate unnecessary markups, allowing you to enjoy durable, sustainable, and luxurious sheets at an affordable price. Keep in mind that the value of organic cotton sheets lies not just in their initial cost, but also in their long-term durability and comfort.

Supporting sustainable and responsible practices

Sourced from organically grown extra long staple cotton fibres, our GOTS certified organic sheets come from India’s finest bedding manufacturer, which supplies some of the world’s biggest luxury brands and hotels. The factory is run entirely on renewable energy, recycles 99% of its water, uses no harsh chemicals (Oeko-Tex 100 certified) and offers unlimited free education for its predominantly female workforce. Additionally, we are proud to be B Corp certified, which means we meet third party certified standards of sustainability. So when you buy Rise & Fall sheets, you can feel confident that you’re making an eco-conscious choice. 

Ultimate comfort

Our Crisp & Cool Organic bedding is supremely soft, comfortable and durable. Crafted from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, our Crisp & Cool sheets will feel gorgeously smooth against your skin and last for years to come. Woven in a one up/one down percale weave in a 400 thread count, these organic sheets are thermoregulating, allowing air to pass easily through the fibres ensuring you stay comfortable and cool throughout the night. Free from harmful chemicals, our organic cotton sheets are great for even the most sensitive skin. (GOTs certified organic cotton has strict rules about environmentally and socially responsible harvesting, manufacturing and labelling.)

colour_Pebble

Switching to organic cotton flat sheets isn’t just about luxury; it’s a choice that promotes sustainability and healthier sleep. By opting for organic cotton, you’re choosing bedding that’s softer for your skin and free from harmful chemicals. Beyond comfort, organic sheets support eco-friendly farming practices that conserve water and protect biodiversity. At Rise & Fall, we’re committed to offering affordable luxury without compromising on quality or ethics. Explore our collection of GOTS-certified organic cotton sheets, crafted for ultimate comfort and durability. Transform your sleep organic experience with our cotton flat sheet and make conscious choices for a healthier and greener planet.