If you care about your sleep, the fabric of your bedding matters more than you might think. Cotton and linen are two of the most popular choices - both natural, breathable, comfortable and incredinly gentle on the skin. That's why at Rise & Fall, we focus on what truly sets exceptional bedding apart - sourcing premium fibres and crafting each piece with precision so it performs long after others loose theirs, regardless of whether you choose cotton or linen.
However, they also offer distinctly different experiences. So how do you decide which is best for you?
How to Choose The Right Natural Fabric For Your Bed
The answer lies in how you like your bed to feel and how you sleep. Cotton typically offers a smoother, more refined finish, while linen has a lighter, more relaxed texture. They differ in warmth, drape and the way they regulate temperature throughout the night too — details that can make a meaningful difference to the quality of your sleep.
Cotton Bedding
Cotton bed linen is suitable for everyone and it's considered to be a classic for a reason. From day one, it looks and feels refined. If you love that hotel-sheet feeling, cotton bedding is always breathable, comfortable and effortless to make.
Many find cotton bedding perfect year-round as it has an inherent ability to stay light in summer and cosy in winter. If you're considering a bed redesign and can’t decide on a fabric, start with premium cotton bedding set and choose between a percale or sateen weave.
- How it feels: Luxuriously smooth yet crisp.
- How it looks: Clean and tailored.
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Temperature: Keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter.
Linen Bedding
Linen offers a different kind of luxury and, for many, it has become the go-to choice. It lends a laid-back, understated style and holds up brillinatly over time. It's highly breathable fibres also keep you feeling cool at night, making it an ideal choice for hot-sleepers and warm summer months.
But, quality linen bedding doesn't just last, it softens with each wash, becoming more comfortable whilst maintaining its strength and integrity.
- How it feels: Slightly textured but still smooth on the skin.
- How it looks: Relaxed elegance with a lived-in texture thanks to itsnatural slub (grain).
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Temperature: Very cooling.
Which is Better: Cotton or Linen?
Neither is better in a universal sense, but one will be better for you.
If you want smoothness and a crisp, clean finish, cotton is usually the one. It’s classic and versatile, giving your bed a refined look with minimal effort.
If you want greater airflow, texture and that effortless drape, linen is the best option. It looks premium in a softer, more organic way.
That said, many people keep both and interchange. You might choose to use cotton in the cooler months and linen over the summer because it helps your bed feel fresh and cool throughout the night.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose linen bedding if you…
- Sleep warm or want maximum breathability.
- Love effortless texture and relaxed luxury.
- Want bedding that softens and improves over time.
Choose cotton bedding if you…
- Prefer a smooth, classic feel.
- Like a crisp, clean bed aesthetic.
- Want an easy, versatile staple for all seasons.
FAQs: Linen vs Cotton Bedding
1. Should I get linen or cotton sheets?
There is no right or wrong answer because it depends on your preference. Overall, the most popular choice would be a cotton bedding set as it is a better all-rounder, but a linen set is equally a top choice for those who prefer a cooler sleep. Many people opt for a linen set in the hotter months and a cotton set in the cooler months because linen and cotton are natural fibres.
2. Is linen harder to care for?
Linen is incredibly easy to live with and care for day to day because the fibres are naturally strong; however, you may want to use cooler, gentler wash cycles than you would with a cotton bedding set.
3. Should I use cotton or linen at different times of the year?
Cotton is often the go-to in cooler months because it feels smooth and comforting and layers neatly for a cosier bed. Linen is a favourite in spring and summer because it’s highly breathable, helps the bed feel fresh, and keeps you cool at night.
