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The Spruce / Marcus Millan
Not only do linen sheets give your bed a refined yet lived-in look, but they also get softer and comfier with time—making them a worthwhile investment. Compared to traditional cotton sheets, linen sheets have uniquely textured surfaces and natural temperature-regulating properties, and they are made with strong, durable fibers that will allow them to last for years to come. Depending on your preferences, linen sheets can be a great pick for anyone who is looking to purchase all-season bedding that looks and feels luxurious.
After hours of research, we gathered 15 top-rated linen sheets and put them through their paces in The Lab and in our homes for approximately six weeks, evaluating them by their quality, texture, breathability, durability, and overall value. During our testing process, we took a close look at how each set of linen sheets performed under various types of wear, including long-term use in the homes of everyday users and sleepers of all kinds.
Best Overall
Parachute Linen Sheet Set
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Parachute
Exceptionally soft
Temperature-regulating abilities
Top sheet optional
Durable
Plastic smell out of the box
Earning an almost-perfect score during our long-term tests, Parachute's Linen Sheet Set is our top overall pick, thanks to its soft feel, breathability, and design-forward color options. As is characteristic of most linen sheets, this set felt breathable and cool all night long. Although the fabric wrinkles easily, we'd argue that this adds to the set's laid-back appearance. We also love that the sheets fit snugly over the bed with no issues of shifting, slipping, or bunching.
Unlike other linen bedding, these sheets have that buttery-soft feel right out of the box. And since the textile is so durable, it'll last for years and actually get softer over time. Linen tends to be a bit stiffer than other types of sheets, but we found these sheets to be consistently comfortable during our six-week testing period. These sheets also held up exceptionally well over time, with no signs of wear or fading after multiple washes. You can pick from 11 earthy and natural color options that are sure to match a wide range of decor styles. We also like that you can forgo the top sheet if you want to save money and prefer to sleep without one.
Price at time of publish: $209 for Queen Size
Material: European flax linen | Weave: Plain square | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine-wash warm, tumble-dry low
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Best Value
Bokser Home French Linen Sheet Set
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Target
Very breathable
Gets softer with each wash
Medium weight that’s suitable for year-round use
Slight pilling and color fading over time
While linen sheets don’t exactly come cheap, the Bokser Home 100% FRENCH LINEN SHEET SET offers a ton of bang for your buck with its soft texture that gets better over time, high-quality construction, and top-notch breathability. Upon arrival, the sheets were a bit stiff and coarse (which tends to be standard for linen in general). However, by the third or fourth wash, we noticed a significant shift, as the sheets felt softer and more luxurious. After making the bed, we were impressed with how casually elegant these sheets looked, as they fit securely and snugly without any issues. Even with some restless sleepers who toss and turn a bit in bed, the fitted sheet never came off the mattress.
The 100 percent French linen sheets have a medium weight to them and offer effective temperature-regulation properties, making these a great choice for year-round use. Our tester noted how much her sleep quality improved after using these sheets for six weeks, as she wouldn’t wake up from night sweats. While the sheets still provide adequate warmth on colder nights, they provide enough airflow and ventilation to prevent overheating. Throughout the testing period, we did notice some slight color fading and peeling on the areas our testers slept in the most. However, these were hardly noticeable and didn’t compromise the overall texture or quality of the material. Despite these minor flaws, we think that these sheets actually come at a fairly reasonable price, considering their luxurious construction and overall quality.
Price at time of publish: $214 for Queen Size
Material: French linen | Weave: Not listed | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Queen, King, Cal King | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Best Splurge
Saatva Linen Sheet Set
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Saatva
Light and airy construction
High-quality construction
Very soft
Durable
Pricey
Fitted sheet is a bit roomy
If you’re willing to shell out a bit more money on linen sheets that look and feel exceptionally luxurious, then look no further than the Saatva Linen Sheet Set. This sheet set earned a near-perfect score during our at-home tests, and we think its high-quality construction makes the steep price tag well worth it. Upon arrival, we were impressed with the sturdiness of these sheets, as they felt well made without being overly heavy. While the sheets had a rougher texture out of the box, they immediately felt softer after the first wash, and after six weeks of consistent use, they only got better.
These sheets are a great pick for those who overheat in their sleep, as they are incredibly breathable and temperature-regulating, with the ability to keep even the warmest sleepers cool and comfortable all night long. When placed on the bed, the sheets had a refined look, and despite the fitted sheet being a bit roomy to accommodate for larger mattresses, we found it easy to tuck in any extra material. The Saatva Linen Sheet Set also proved to be very durable, as they held up incredible well over the course of six weeks with no signs of wear and no color fading. Our tester’s puppy even dug around in them one morning, and there were still no rips or tears, which impressed us.
Price at time of publish: $375 for Queen Size
Material: Belgian linen | Weave: None listed | Thread Count: None listed | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, Queen, king, Cal king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine-wash cold, tumble dry low
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
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Softest
Southern Living Heirloom Linen & Cotton Sheet Set
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Dillards
Buttery-soft texture
Lightweight construction
Breathable and airy
Not pure linen
Limited sizes
While linen sheets may be known for having a rougher, more textured feel than traditional cotton sheets, there are still options that feel exceptionally soft and smooth without having to break them in. Made with a blend of linen and long-staple cotton, the Southern Living Heirloom Linen & Cotton Sheet Set at Dillard's offers the best of both worlds.
These sheets earned a perfect score during our long-term testing, and for good reason. While the sheets may not be made from pure linen, we were immediately impressed with their overall construction, as they felt wonderfully soft and pleasantly lightweight. The cotton blend allows for a texture that’s less rough and scratchy than pure linen, which is a plus for those who prefer a balance between texture and smoothness. After multiple washes, these sheets have gotten even better in time, and we loved just how cozy and comfortable they felt throughout the six-week testing period. They also proved to be very durable, as during our long-term tests they held up wonderfully with no signs of wear or color fading.
The Southern Living Heirloom Linen & Cotton Sheet Set also has a very breathable construction, and our tester, who usually gets night sweats, found that the sheets regulated her body temperature extremely well. If you’re looking for sheets you can use year-round, these are definitely a worthy pick. While we love these sheets overall, note that they only come in queen and king sizes.
Price at time of publish: $179 for Queen Size
Material: 55% linen 45% long-staple cotton | Weave: Not listed | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Queen, king | Certifications: Not listed | Care: Machine washable
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Best Durable
The Citizenry Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set
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The Citizenry
Stone-washed for exceptional softness
Durable and thick construction
Fair-trade produced and OEKO-TEX certified
Higher resistance to wrinkles
Longer break-in period
Not the most breathable
The Citizenry's Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set is made from the finest flax fibers grown in France and loomed in a family-run Fair Trade mill in Portugal. As the name suggests, they're stone-washed, which means they're pre-washed with stones to ensure softness out of the box. Best of all, the buttery feel will only get better with time.
We were immediately impressed with the overall construction quality of these sheets, and because of their considerable sturdiness, they were fairly wrinkle-resistant (which is rare for linen). The Citizenry's Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set is a bit thicker and heavier than other options we tested, which is a great sign of their durability. However, that means a longer break-in period and less breathability, compared to some of its competitors. All things considered, these sheets are still a great option for year-round use. These sheets come in 15 chic designs, from classic white to beach-inspired stripes.
Though the price is undoubtedly high, compared to other sets in our roundup, it's not actually that steep for high-quality European linen. In addition to being made in an ethical working environment, The Citizenry pays its artisans about twice as much as is required for Fair Trade certification. Not only that, but the fabric is OEKO-TEX certified to ensure that it's produced without any potentially harmful chemicals.
Price at time of publish: $299 for Queen Size
Material: French flax linen | Weave: Plain square | GSM: 160 | Sizes: Full, queen, king, Cal king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine-wash gentle, tumble-dry
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The Spruce /Dera Burreson
Best Moisture-Wicking
West Elm European Flax Linen Sheet Set and Pillowcases
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West Elm
Exceptionally soft
Temperature-regulating
Made in Fair Trade factory
20 color choices available
Prone to wrinkles
Longer wait for made-to-order colors
Sheets with temperature-regulating properties can be especially helpful for those with night sweats, and the West Elm European Flax Linen Sheet Set is both breathable and moisture-wicking, with a high-quality construction. These exceptionally-soft sheets felt sturdy and durable upon arrival, and after a few washes they became even more comfortable. During our lab test, we did notice that these sheets did wrinkle more than some of the other options we tested, but you can steam or iron them for a cleaner, crisper look.
Despite its heavier weight, we were pleasantly surprised by the sheets’ temperature-regulating properties. Made in a Fair Trade facility from heirloom-quality flax, the fabric is inherently breathable and absorbent. It does an amazing job of allowing air to pass through, helping to regulate your body temperature while you doze. We love that this set comes in more than 20 different hues, and you can even choose from a few striped options. Made-to-order colors may take longer to ship, but we think it’s worth it if you’re looking to curate a design-forward bedscape.
Price at time of publish: $216 for Queen Size
Material: European flax linen | Weave: Plain square | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Twin/Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Certifications: Fair Trade | Care: Machine-wash cold, tumble-dry low
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Best Lightweight
Brooklinen Linen Core Sheet Set
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Brooklinen
Light and airy construction
Very durable
Temperature-regulating properties
A bit rough upon arrival
The Brooklinen Linen Core Sheet Set boasts a wonderfully airy and breathable construction without sacrificing durability and high-quality craftsmanship, making it a great pick for those who prefer lightweight bedding. Upon arrival, they felt somewhat rough to the touch, but after multiple rounds of washing, they became noticeably softer and more comfortable. We were initially impressed with just how light the sheets felt, as the weave almost felt sheer. At night, these sheets offered an excellent balance between cozy and cooling. The looser weave allowed for more airflow, which prevented overheating. Even on chillier nights, they still provided adequate warmth without becoming too hot.
And despite the sheets’ breezy construction, they proved to be very durable. Our tester noted that she shares a bed with her playful cat and restless husband, and the Brooklinen Linen Core Sheet Set could handle everything from sheet pulling to cat claws quite impressively. After six weeks, the sheets looked crisply white and as good as new, with no signs of wear. We also loved just how clean they looked on the bed, as the all-around elastic provided a very secure fit over the mattress.
Price at time of publish: $299 for Queen Size
Material: European flax linen | Weave: Not listed | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, queen, king, Cal king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine-wash cold, tumble-dry low
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Best Heavyweight
Coyuchi Organic Relaxed Linen Sheets
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Amazon
Sturdy and weighty construction
Very durable
Soft and cozy texture post-wash
Expensive
May be too heavy for year-round use
For those who sleep on the colder side or prefer a heavier sheet, the Coyuchi Organic Relaxed Linen Sheets offer a surprisingly hefty construction while still maintaining the breezy and relaxed nature of classic linen. Upon arrival, we could immediately tell that these sheets had a substantial weight and felt heavier than many of the other options we tried out. They felt almost warm to the touch in a cozy way. They are a bit stiffer than some of the other options we tested, but the sheets got a bit more flexible and developed more of a broken-in texture the more we washed them. While the sheets were definitely cozy and will keep you warm at night, they provided enough breathability that can prevent overheating and regulate your body temperature. However, they might just be too heavy for some people to use as spring and summer approach.
After using these sheets for six weeks, we were impressed that they held up exceptionally well after multiple washes, with no visible signs of wear. And because of their sturdy construction, we suspect that these sheets will last you for quite a while, compared to more lightweight options. At $558 for a queen-sized set, these are definitely the most expensive sheets on this list. However, these luxury sheets strike the perfect balance among soft, sturdy, and breathable that warrants the price tag for those who prefer a heavyweight sheet set.
Price at time of publish: $558 for Queen Size
Material: French linen | Weave: Plain | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Full, queen, king, Cal king
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Best Colors
Quince European Linen Sheet Set
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Quince
Lightweight, airy construction
Very soft texture
Temperature-regulating properties
Ethically made
May be too thin
Fitted sheet is a bit roomy
If you’re looking for a lightweight linen sheet option with a plethora of elegant color options to match your decor, Quince might just be your best bet. Off the bat, we were immediately impressed with just the cozy texture of these sheets, as they felt much softer than other linens we’ve tested. While other linen sheets may take awhile to “break in,” these felt great upon arrival. The fabric is pre-washed for immediate softness and boasts exceptional durability to ensure that the sheets will last for years. While the sheets looked great on the bed, we did find that the fitted sheet is a bit too roomy for the mattress, and the excess fabric caused the sheet to move around a bit.
During our long-term tests, we found these sheets to be extremely lightweight and airy, making them the perfect option for those who tend to overheat at night. However, for those who prefer linen that’s a bit sturdier and stiffer, these may be too thin for your liking. The brand's Linen Sheet Set is woven out of 100 percent European flax fibers at a weight of 150 GSM (grams per square meter). That makes it slightly more lightweight than others in its category while offering natural breathability, absorption, and temperature-regulating abilities to keep you comfortable and dry throughout the night.
We love that these sheets are available in 18 gorgeous color options, so you’ll be able to find one that works for you, no matter your design style. Manufacturers sustainably source the fabric and produce their sheet sets under ethical conditions. We love that Quince employs ethical practices while keeping prices affordable.
Price at time of publish: $170 for Queen Size
Material: European flax linen | Weave: Plain square | GSM: 150 | Sizes: Twin, Full, queen, king, Cal king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine-wash cold/delicate, tumble-dry low
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Our number-one pick is the Parachute Linen Venice Sheet Set, which earned high marks from our tester for its buttery-soft feel, top-notch breathability, and lived-in look. For a value-packed option that’ll last you for years to come, we recommend the Bokser Home 100% FRENCH LINEN SHEET SET, which boasts a luxuriously cozy texture and gets softer with every wash.
How We Tested the Linen Sheets
After researching the most beloved, top-rated linen sheets currently on the market, we gathered 15 options and put them to the test in The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa. Our testers evaluated them on the basis of quality by inspecting the linen sheets both before and after following the care instructions. We looked for any loose threads, pilling, snags, and imperfections in the stitching, dye, or pattern. We also noted any specifics about each linen sheet, including the thread count, weave, and/or weight. Next, we assessed the texture of each linen sheets, considering its thickness, breathability, softness, structure, and smoothness. At that point, we made the bed with the linen sheets, observing how snugly the fitted sheet fit over the mattress, whether there was shifting or bunching, and how it draped over the bed. We also paid special attention to the depth of the fitted sheet and whether or not there was any excess fabric hanging over the sides.
We then tested the sheets’ breathability by having our testers lay underneath them and seeing how much airflow the sheet allowed through. We also placed a drop of water in the middle of the sheet to see how moisture-wicking the material was, by observing how quickly and how much the water dispersed over the area. To evaluate the durability of each linen, we performed a spill test and poured coffee, oil, and foundation over each sheet, noting how easy the stain was to remove and whether or not we could tell that they had been stained previously. We also carefully followed care instructions and judged whether there were any signs of wear, imperfections, wrinkles, or shrinkage post-wash. Finally, we assessed the linen sheets’ value by comparing their retail prices with their overall quality.
In addition to our standard in-lab testing, we conducted long-term home testing in order to see how the linen sheets held up over time, checking in after six weeks. For long-term testing, we took the 15 lab-tested linen sheet sets and sent them to our volunteer testers' houses to note how they performed in real-world situations. We asked our home testers to consider not only the quality, texture, breathability, durability, and value, but also how (if at all) the sheets enhanced their day-to-day lives. Testers also considered how the sheets changed in texture after consistent washes, their sleep quality during those six weeks, and whether or not they would recommend the products to a friend or family member. We analyzed our testers’ scores and insights, along with our supplemental research, to compile this list of the nine linen sheets we believe are the best.
What to Look for in Linen Sheets
Material
While linen definitely has a recognizable texture, much of the construction, weight, and overall value will be dependent on the quality of the flax fibers used in the material. One hundred percent linen will have a different texture from linen blends or other synthetic fabrics, and while pure linen may be more expensive, the materials in your sheets should ultimately depend on your personal preferences. For example, if you love the breathability and thickness of linen but prefer a smoother, less textured surface, then maybe a linen-cotton blend is for you. Or, if you love the general texture of linen but hate how wrinkle-prone it is, you may want to opt for sheets with a linen-rayon blend.
Quality
The quality of the linen bedding you select will affect everything from how it feels to how long it lasts. You want something that's soft, but also durable, and will hold up well to both daily use and regular washing. Different types of linen will provide different feels, looks, and levels of quality. For example, Belgian linen is considered a top-of-the-line pick, because it's of the highest-quality. European flax linen, on the other hand, is more common and quite strong; you'll find that this variety is nice and durable.
No matter which type of linen you opt for, your sheets will only improve with use. "The sheets will naturally soften over time," says Saana Baker, Textile Design Consultant and founder of The Textile Eye. "But I would suggest making sure they are stone-washed (with pumice or similar stones) or enzyme washed." Your personal preference, as well as your budget, should drive your choices.
Fit
Most linen bedding comes in standard sizes, but if you have a bed that goes beyond a king or a pillow-top mattress, your search for the perfect fit may take more time. Consider the size of the mattress and box spring, as well as your personal preferences when it comes to things like how snugly you like fitted sheets to fit, and how low you like your bed skirt to hang.
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Texture and Feel
"At first glance, linen bedding exudes a textured softness that can easily be displayed in a formal setting or dressed down for a more casual feel," says Decorist designer Christina Manzo. "Upon closer inspection of linen bedding, one will find the fabric to be quite durable and versatile." In addition to the material, you’ll want to look at whether or not the manufacturer has listed a specific weave, weight, or thread count, as all of these factors can contribute to the sheets’ overall texture.
If you just want basic white bedding, you'll be able to find it in most linen sheet sets, but if you're looking for a variety of colors and/or prints, then it may be more difficult. Various linens also have different looks in terms of how crisp or how "lived-in" they look, so make sure you choose one that fits in with the rest of your room's decor.
According to Manzo, "The natural creases, combined with the overall softness over time, are the highlighted visual qualities that make linen bedding so sought-after and a great solution to any design aesthetic."
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How do you care for linen sheets?
You should always check the manufacturer's care instructions before cleaning any type of bedding. In most cases, linen sheets can be washed in a standard washing machine on a normal or delicate cycle with cold or warm water.
"After washing, take them out and smooth them out, especially the cuffs, before drying," says Baker. "Then dry them on a low or medium heat, and take them out right when they are dry." Baker says to avoid over-drying your sheets, to prevent a "crunchy" feeling.
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How do you soften linen sheets?
"Linen has a naturally toothy hand and can feel a little rough," Baker says. "Even soft linen sheets have more texture than cotton, so they might take a little getting used to."
Generally speaking, you can expect your linen bedding to soften after the first wash. However, some linen sheets may take longer to “break in” than others, requiring up to four washes to fully develop that luxurious texture. Thanks to the inherent durability of the material, it will continue to get softer with ongoing use and laundry cycles. If you want something that's soft from day one, Baker suggests looking for stone-washed or enzyme-washed sheets. "Also, washing linen with wool dryer balls hastens the softening process," Baker adds.
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Are linen sheets suitable for all seasons?
Compared to typical cotton sheets, linen tends to have a thicker and heavier weight to them. That allows them to provide insulation and warmth during the colder months. They also are naturally temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking, so they can also be suitable for the summertime as they can prevent overheating. While the weight and breathability can vary from brand to brand, linen sheets are a great pick for year-round use.
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Are linen sheets scratchy?
One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding linen sheets is their texture. While many people assume linen is scratchy and uncomfortable, it's quite the opposite–linen is actually quite soft! Brand-new linen sheets may feel a bit stiff right out of their packaging. However, after a wash they soften up nicely. Over time, and with regular washing, most linen sheet sets become even softer, too.
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The Spruce / Dera Burreson
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Bianca Pineda, a commerce writer who specializes in bedding, bath, and home decor at the Spruce. To compile this list, she consulted lab and at-home testing insights, assessed numerous customer reviews, and conducted supplemental research about the topic. All of the products in this roundup met our quality standards during the research process and performed the best during our lab tests. In addition, our team spoke to decorist designer Christina Manzo and textile design consultant Saana Baker for further insight regarding buying and care advice for linen sheets.
What Is The Spruce Approved?
Here at The Spruce, we want to ensure that we fully stand behind every product we recommend and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all of these products ourselves, though occasionally we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut.