But at nearly twice the price, wed recommend buying them only if you want (and can afford) supersoft linen. Theyre about as soft as the Cultiver sheets, but they feel thinner and weve read owner complaints about the West Elm set wearing thin. 
Wed say theyre maybe 5 to 10 percent softer, and we actually prefer the mitered corners on Cultivers top sheet to the simpler edges on the Bella Notte top sheet. If you like silky-smooth sheets, linen may feel too grainy or scratchy against your skin. This allows you to easily replace pieces or to slowly build a set, depending on your budget. We wanted to see if more expensive sheets were more durable. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Keep reading for our full product review. If luxe is what youre after, look to another brand like Parachute or Brooklinen. Please enter a valid address or ZIP code. We read complaints on Apartment Therapyand in one Reddit thread about the sheets quickly wearing thin. The all-natural linen used for these sheets was sourced in Belgium. 
Relatively affordable: Linen sheets are a luxury item, so you should expect to pay more for them. In our experience, air-dried linen feels rougher and stiff. We ordered fabric samples or pillowcases of the 21 sets we were interested in trying. We purchased the West Elm Belgian Flax Linen Sheet Set so our reviewer could put it to the test. 
In our original 2016 linen sheet review, we featured the West Elm set as our main pick, and we still think theyre very good for their relatively low price. Subscribe now for unlimited access. For our 2018 update, we researched 40 more sets, and used the above criteria to narrow our list to 21 for testing. Personalization of item is included in delivery estimate. After five washes it was very wrinkled and creased. If you have pets with long nails, you might want to opt for another set. The light nature of these sheets made me worry that they would snag, and while I still havent experienced this after a month, some reviews confirm that theory. A softener acts in a similar way to conditioner that you might use on your hair; using it every few washes shouldnt create much buildup. We want to ensure our customers have a safe and secure online shopping experience. Cultivers sizing is a little limited (it doesnt offer a full-size fitted sheet, and not every color is available in every size), but these sheets come in the widest range of colors and prints weve seen. We like that this setup lets you rotate the bottom and top sheets for more even wear, which might help the sheets longevity. They were our testers unanimous favorite, the softest sheets we tried, and less prone to wrinkling. Speaking of pillowcases, my pillow did manage to wiggle itself out a bit more than it did with competing sets from Linoto and Parachute, which I also tested. Available in {0} store{1} within {2} {3}{4}: This product is not available in any stores within {0} {1}. We think the texture of these sheets will be too rough for many people, but we do think the fabric feels sturdy and may wear well over time. European Flax Linen Linework Quilt & Shams, European Flax Linen Mini Waffle Duvet Cover & Shams, European Flax Linen Tack Stitch Quilt & Shams, European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt & Shams, 20% Off Best-Selling-Fabrics Sofas & Sectionals, European Flax Linen Sheet Set & Pillowcases. Balin told us, Though each fabric absorbs the dye in different intensities (linens and cottons lighter, silk velvets more deeply), dying all pieces together allows us to achieve a harmonious palette for your entire bedding ensemble. A custom-dying option is rare (Matteo was one of the only other companies we saw offering it), and the results are quite pretty. Your browser does not meet current requirements to shop securely online. "Woven from European-grown flax, these linen sheets have superior breathability, making them ideal for summer nights or winter evenings.". You wont find linen sheets being measured in thread count like you will for cotton sets, and theres a reason for that: the yarns used in linen textiles are thicker and more textured than cotton. I have a feeling it might have to do with their weight or the state of their pedicure, she said. Good owner reviews: We looked closely at owner reviews on retailer sites when they were available (for many retailers they werent), and we also dove into many Reddit threads (including here, here, and here), where we saw an active dialogue among people who have purchased and used various brands of linen sheets. The set would be the perfect gift for a parent looking to treat kids graduating college and renting their first adult apartments. Tricia Rose, owner of Rough Linen, told us that shes not sure why some peoples sheets develop holes and others dont. Durable: We wanted to find sheets that will last for years of regular use. For insider perspective on what makes great linen, we spoke with Hank Patterson, owner of the luxury linen towel company Deck Towel. Purchase whichever one you find on sale. By comparison, high-quality cotton percale sheets range between 200 and 300; sateen, between 300 and 600. Instead of using one of Rough Linen's fitted sheets, we like using a second flat sheet folded around the mattress with hospital cornersthat way, you can rotate the sheets so they wear evenly. Woven from 100% premium quality European flax linen. Hand-washing this sheet set in warm water worked well enough for me, and the linen did dry quicker than a cotton set. Two Wirecutter staffers owned this set and experienced the same issue, one within a year and the other within four years after purchase. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing to save people time, energy and money when making buying decisions. Its often touted as a great sheeting fabric for summer, because its so breathable. Manufacturers almost universally caution against using bleach, because its harsh and can degrade the fabric. The West Elm Belgian Flax Linen Sheet Set is perfectly acceptabletheyre soft, breathable, and they look really great on your bed. The hems are clean, but dont expect any special features like button closures or special pillowcase folds as you would get with a set from Parachute. The longer answer is no, there are different levels of quality that can be the difference between your best night of sleep and Id be better off sleeping in a literal bale of hay kind of sleep. Aside from wishing my pillow would stay put for more than a night at a time, I really didnt find myself wishing for anything else with these sheets. Enter postal code for a better delivery estimate. Like Cultiver, Rough Linen sells its sheets by the piece, so you could slowly invest in a set, or just buy a top sheet and pillowcase to use with a durable fitted cotton sheet. Otherwise, she was happy with the top sheet and pillowcases for the year she long-term tested, and three of our staffers bought sets in summer 2018 and havent had any durability complaints. Our testers liked the weight of the fabric, which feels slightly heavier than the Cultiver sheets, and more substantial than those from Pottery Barn and West Elm. Not only are there are a lot of brands to choose from, but the most common question is: Arent they all the same? If you prefer a minimalist look, the sheets themselves are very simple, with no frilly details. 
We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. Linen naturally has a shabby-chic, rumpled look that can add a textural element to your bed. It will soften up after many washes, but achieving the same smoothness you get immediately with good cotton sheets takes years. Like Cultiver, Rough Linen does not offer a warranty, and it offers only a 30-day return window for unused, unwashed items. Its frustrating to fall in love with a soft sheet in the store only to have it turn uncomfortably rough after a wash or two. The other thing is how you wash them, the sort of detergent you use, and the amount of detergent you use. We cover Roses laundering advice in the care and maintenance section. Heres every set of sheets we recommend, from breezy summer linen to cozy winter flannel, from neutral solids to quirky prints. It didnt feel as soft as or better than the sets we ultimately decided to test. We think Cultiver offers a nicer selection of colors and a softer fabric that most people will prefer, but Rough Linen Sheets may appeal to people who like more texture. We offer a rainbow of inviting, easy-to-live-with tones for you to choose from, mixing and matching encouraged. Bella Nottes sheets feel slightly thicker than Cultivers; its a hair harder to see a hand through the fabric. 
The most delightful part of this set: You can add a custom monogram. We prioritize responsible sourcing. Lay flat for a casual, relaxed look. 
Theyre about as soft as the West Elm and Pottery Barn sets, slightly smoother than the similarly priced Rough Linen sheets, and much smoother than the pricier Matteo sheetswhose samples were among the scratchiest we tried. We make every effort to give you current product availability information, but our store inventory is always changing so an item's availability cannot be guaranteed. One tester who doesnt mind a rougher texture found the cases pleasant to sleep on. We found them slightly grainier than the Cultiver set, with a pleasant scratchiness. We didnt think the fabric was as nice as our top picks. (You will need to pay for shipping.). If youre looking for an entry-level set, we equally recommend the Belgian Flax Linen Sets fromWest Elm or Pottery Barn. Please use the following links to upgrade your browser: If you are unable to upgrade your browser, you can place an order Rough Linen sells its sheets as single pieces (fitted or flat) or in sets (where you can specify if youd like a combination of fitted and flat sheets or two flat sheets). 
If youre confused in the bedding aisle, this guide will help you choose the best year-round sheets for your bed. Wirecutter editor Winnie Yang experienced this same issue, when her top sheet thinned and developed holes and tears after only two and a half years of use (this is the same editor who later bought a Cultiver top sheet). Bella Nottes fitted sheet had the nicest construction we saw. 
You cant buy the sheets on their own, but you can purchase additional pillow casesnotable if youre looking for replacements. Rough Linens sheets are slightly thicker than Cultivers, although a hand will still show through the fabric. One perk you will get with these sheets is custom dyeing; Bella Notte sells a range of bedding made from linen, cotton, and velvet, and you can have whatever you order garment-dyed together. That being said, linen and cotton sheets are both made using the same over-under weave. This detergent uses enzymes to remove stains and is particularly effective at eliminating substances such as oil and residue from the body. Belgium in particular is known for high-quality flax because of its climate and soil conditions. The location you specified seems to be incorrect. If youre looking for a breezy, beautiful, soft linen set that includes only the essentials, this is a great way to introduce linen into your bedroom. Manufacturers dont advertise linen sheets with a thread count (the number of vertical and horizontal yarns in a square inch of fabric). We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best For the significant price bump, theres no guarantee youll get a longer-wearing sheet. 
The West Elm website says these sheets have been pre-washed for a lived-in look, which also helps combat shrinkage. (You will be charged a shipping fee.). As much as we love these sheets, we think most people will be more than happy with the Cultiver set. Weve found six sets that will keep you cool and comfortable. The company doesnt sell a full-size fitted sheet, and it sells only one size of top sheet, meant to fit a queen or king bed. European Flax Linen Sheet Set & Pillowcases, After Testing 30+ Options, These Are the 11 Best Cooling Sheets of 2022, The 8 Best Linen Sheets That Will Help You Sleep Well, The Best California King Sheets in a Variety of Fabrics, The Best Sheet Sets, Tested by The Spruce, The Best Places to Buy Bedding in Stores and Online, Parachute is Having a 20% Off SaleHere Are Our Editors Top Picks, The Best Duvet Covers, Tested by Our Experts, The Best Places to Buy Home Decor for Any Home Aesthetic, Here Are the Best Organic Sheet Sets for an Eco-friendly Nights Sleep, Crisp, Cool, and Lightweight: The Best Percale Sheets to Use on Your Bed, We Tested the Best Cotton SheetsHere Are Our Favorites, The Best Egyptian Cotton Sheets for Maximum Softness and Comfort, We Reviewed the Nestwell Washed Cotton Percale Sheet Set, The Best High Thread-Count Sheets for Dreamy Sleep. This item is only available for shipping. Enjoy free design help, even from the comfort of your couch! If you can splurge, we recommend Bella Notte Linen Sheets. 
We think some people may find these sheets too rough. This is the perfect beginner set for someone just laying his or her head down in the world of linen bed covers. The Cultiver set also has slightly nicer detailing than the Rough Linen set, with very clean mitered corners and thick hems along all the edges of the top sheet. That means more recycled, upcycled & FSC-certifiedand less waste. 
We also think Cultivers sheets feel almost as good as those from Bella Notte, which cost almost twice the price. I tested a full-size set (also available in queen, king, and California king) to judge the quality of the material, texture, and more. Before becoming deputy editor, Christine Cyr Clisset oversaw Wirecutters bedding coverage, and she has long-term tested our sheet picks since 2015. Garment-washed for a luxe, lived-in texture that gets softer with time. 
Tumble dry low, removing promptly. The West Elm Belgian Flax Linen Sheet Set doesnt come with as many bells and whistles as other sets, but it is a more affordable option that can be customized for a fee. Our Fair Trade Certified and Handcrafted collections do even more to support the communities who make them. But Europe isnt the only place that produces quality flax. The Cultiver sheets typically come in around 14 colors (plus three prints), which is the widest selection of any of our top contending sets.
Wed say theyre maybe 5 to 10 percent softer, and we actually prefer the mitered corners on Cultivers top sheet to the simpler edges on the Bella Notte top sheet. If you like silky-smooth sheets, linen may feel too grainy or scratchy against your skin. This allows you to easily replace pieces or to slowly build a set, depending on your budget. We wanted to see if more expensive sheets were more durable. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Keep reading for our full product review. If luxe is what youre after, look to another brand like Parachute or Brooklinen. Please enter a valid address or ZIP code. We read complaints on Apartment Therapyand in one Reddit thread about the sheets quickly wearing thin. The all-natural linen used for these sheets was sourced in Belgium. Relatively affordable: Linen sheets are a luxury item, so you should expect to pay more for them. In our experience, air-dried linen feels rougher and stiff. We ordered fabric samples or pillowcases of the 21 sets we were interested in trying. We purchased the West Elm Belgian Flax Linen Sheet Set so our reviewer could put it to the test. In our original 2016 linen sheet review, we featured the West Elm set as our main pick, and we still think theyre very good for their relatively low price. Subscribe now for unlimited access. For our 2018 update, we researched 40 more sets, and used the above criteria to narrow our list to 21 for testing. Personalization of item is included in delivery estimate. After five washes it was very wrinkled and creased. If you have pets with long nails, you might want to opt for another set. The light nature of these sheets made me worry that they would snag, and while I still havent experienced this after a month, some reviews confirm that theory. A softener acts in a similar way to conditioner that you might use on your hair; using it every few washes shouldnt create much buildup. We want to ensure our customers have a safe and secure online shopping experience. Cultivers sizing is a little limited (it doesnt offer a full-size fitted sheet, and not every color is available in every size), but these sheets come in the widest range of colors and prints weve seen. We like that this setup lets you rotate the bottom and top sheets for more even wear, which might help the sheets longevity. They were our testers unanimous favorite, the softest sheets we tried, and less prone to wrinkling. Speaking of pillowcases, my pillow did manage to wiggle itself out a bit more than it did with competing sets from Linoto and Parachute, which I also tested. Available in {0} store{1} within {2} {3}{4}: This product is not available in any stores within {0} {1}. We think the texture of these sheets will be too rough for many people, but we do think the fabric feels sturdy and may wear well over time. European Flax Linen Linework Quilt & Shams, European Flax Linen Mini Waffle Duvet Cover & Shams, European Flax Linen Tack Stitch Quilt & Shams, European Flax Linen Box Stitch Quilt & Shams, 20% Off Best-Selling-Fabrics Sofas & Sectionals, European Flax Linen Sheet Set & Pillowcases. Balin told us, Though each fabric absorbs the dye in different intensities (linens and cottons lighter, silk velvets more deeply), dying all pieces together allows us to achieve a harmonious palette for your entire bedding ensemble. A custom-dying option is rare (Matteo was one of the only other companies we saw offering it), and the results are quite pretty. Your browser does not meet current requirements to shop securely online. "Woven from European-grown flax, these linen sheets have superior breathability, making them ideal for summer nights or winter evenings.". You wont find linen sheets being measured in thread count like you will for cotton sets, and theres a reason for that: the yarns used in linen textiles are thicker and more textured than cotton. I have a feeling it might have to do with their weight or the state of their pedicure, she said. Good owner reviews: We looked closely at owner reviews on retailer sites when they were available (for many retailers they werent), and we also dove into many Reddit threads (including here, here, and here), where we saw an active dialogue among people who have purchased and used various brands of linen sheets. The set would be the perfect gift for a parent looking to treat kids graduating college and renting their first adult apartments. Tricia Rose, owner of Rough Linen, told us that shes not sure why some peoples sheets develop holes and others dont. Durable: We wanted to find sheets that will last for years of regular use. For insider perspective on what makes great linen, we spoke with Hank Patterson, owner of the luxury linen towel company Deck Towel. Purchase whichever one you find on sale. By comparison, high-quality cotton percale sheets range between 200 and 300; sateen, between 300 and 600. Instead of using one of Rough Linen's fitted sheets, we like using a second flat sheet folded around the mattress with hospital cornersthat way, you can rotate the sheets so they wear evenly. Woven from 100% premium quality European flax linen. Hand-washing this sheet set in warm water worked well enough for me, and the linen did dry quicker than a cotton set. Two Wirecutter staffers owned this set and experienced the same issue, one within a year and the other within four years after purchase. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing to save people time, energy and money when making buying decisions. Its often touted as a great sheeting fabric for summer, because its so breathable. Manufacturers almost universally caution against using bleach, because its harsh and can degrade the fabric. The West Elm Belgian Flax Linen Sheet Set is perfectly acceptabletheyre soft, breathable, and they look really great on your bed. The hems are clean, but dont expect any special features like button closures or special pillowcase folds as you would get with a set from Parachute. The longer answer is no, there are different levels of quality that can be the difference between your best night of sleep and Id be better off sleeping in a literal bale of hay kind of sleep. Aside from wishing my pillow would stay put for more than a night at a time, I really didnt find myself wishing for anything else with these sheets. Enter postal code for a better delivery estimate. Like Cultiver, Rough Linen sells its sheets by the piece, so you could slowly invest in a set, or just buy a top sheet and pillowcase to use with a durable fitted cotton sheet. Otherwise, she was happy with the top sheet and pillowcases for the year she long-term tested, and three of our staffers bought sets in summer 2018 and havent had any durability complaints. Our testers liked the weight of the fabric, which feels slightly heavier than the Cultiver sheets, and more substantial than those from Pottery Barn and West Elm. Not only are there are a lot of brands to choose from, but the most common question is: Arent they all the same? If you prefer a minimalist look, the sheets themselves are very simple, with no frilly details. We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. Linen naturally has a shabby-chic, rumpled look that can add a textural element to your bed. It will soften up after many washes, but achieving the same smoothness you get immediately with good cotton sheets takes years. Like Cultiver, Rough Linen does not offer a warranty, and it offers only a 30-day return window for unused, unwashed items. Its frustrating to fall in love with a soft sheet in the store only to have it turn uncomfortably rough after a wash or two. The other thing is how you wash them, the sort of detergent you use, and the amount of detergent you use. We cover Roses laundering advice in the care and maintenance section. Heres every set of sheets we recommend, from breezy summer linen to cozy winter flannel, from neutral solids to quirky prints. It didnt feel as soft as or better than the sets we ultimately decided to test. We think Cultiver offers a nicer selection of colors and a softer fabric that most people will prefer, but Rough Linen Sheets may appeal to people who like more texture. We offer a rainbow of inviting, easy-to-live-with tones for you to choose from, mixing and matching encouraged. Bella Nottes sheets feel slightly thicker than Cultivers; its a hair harder to see a hand through the fabric. The most delightful part of this set: You can add a custom monogram. We prioritize responsible sourcing. Lay flat for a casual, relaxed look. Theyre about as soft as the West Elm and Pottery Barn sets, slightly smoother than the similarly priced Rough Linen sheets, and much smoother than the pricier Matteo sheetswhose samples were among the scratchiest we tried. We make every effort to give you current product availability information, but our store inventory is always changing so an item's availability cannot be guaranteed. One tester who doesnt mind a rougher texture found the cases pleasant to sleep on. We found them slightly grainier than the Cultiver set, with a pleasant scratchiness. We didnt think the fabric was as nice as our top picks. (You will need to pay for shipping.). If youre looking for an entry-level set, we equally recommend the Belgian Flax Linen Sets fromWest Elm or Pottery Barn. Please use the following links to upgrade your browser: If you are unable to upgrade your browser, you can place an order Rough Linen sells its sheets as single pieces (fitted or flat) or in sets (where you can specify if youd like a combination of fitted and flat sheets or two flat sheets). If youre confused in the bedding aisle, this guide will help you choose the best year-round sheets for your bed. Wirecutter editor Winnie Yang experienced this same issue, when her top sheet thinned and developed holes and tears after only two and a half years of use (this is the same editor who later bought a Cultiver top sheet). Bella Nottes fitted sheet had the nicest construction we saw. You cant buy the sheets on their own, but you can purchase additional pillow casesnotable if youre looking for replacements. Rough Linens sheets are slightly thicker than Cultivers, although a hand will still show through the fabric. One perk you will get with these sheets is custom dyeing; Bella Notte sells a range of bedding made from linen, cotton, and velvet, and you can have whatever you order garment-dyed together. That being said, linen and cotton sheets are both made using the same over-under weave. This detergent uses enzymes to remove stains and is particularly effective at eliminating substances such as oil and residue from the body. Belgium in particular is known for high-quality flax because of its climate and soil conditions. The location you specified seems to be incorrect. If youre looking for a breezy, beautiful, soft linen set that includes only the essentials, this is a great way to introduce linen into your bedroom. Manufacturers dont advertise linen sheets with a thread count (the number of vertical and horizontal yarns in a square inch of fabric). We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best For the significant price bump, theres no guarantee youll get a longer-wearing sheet. The West Elm website says these sheets have been pre-washed for a lived-in look, which also helps combat shrinkage. (You will be charged a shipping fee.). As much as we love these sheets, we think most people will be more than happy with the Cultiver set. Weve found six sets that will keep you cool and comfortable. The company doesnt sell a full-size fitted sheet, and it sells only one size of top sheet, meant to fit a queen or king bed. European Flax Linen Sheet Set & Pillowcases, After Testing 30+ Options, These Are the 11 Best Cooling Sheets of 2022, The 8 Best Linen Sheets That Will Help You Sleep Well, The Best California King Sheets in a Variety of Fabrics, The Best Sheet Sets, Tested by The Spruce, The Best Places to Buy Bedding in Stores and Online, Parachute is Having a 20% Off SaleHere Are Our Editors Top Picks, The Best Duvet Covers, Tested by Our Experts, The Best Places to Buy Home Decor for Any Home Aesthetic, Here Are the Best Organic Sheet Sets for an Eco-friendly Nights Sleep, Crisp, Cool, and Lightweight: The Best Percale Sheets to Use on Your Bed, We Tested the Best Cotton SheetsHere Are Our Favorites, The Best Egyptian Cotton Sheets for Maximum Softness and Comfort, We Reviewed the Nestwell Washed Cotton Percale Sheet Set, The Best High Thread-Count Sheets for Dreamy Sleep. This item is only available for shipping. Enjoy free design help, even from the comfort of your couch! If you can splurge, we recommend Bella Notte Linen Sheets. We think some people may find these sheets too rough. This is the perfect beginner set for someone just laying his or her head down in the world of linen bed covers. The Cultiver set also has slightly nicer detailing than the Rough Linen set, with very clean mitered corners and thick hems along all the edges of the top sheet. That means more recycled, upcycled & FSC-certifiedand less waste. We also think Cultivers sheets feel almost as good as those from Bella Notte, which cost almost twice the price. I tested a full-size set (also available in queen, king, and California king) to judge the quality of the material, texture, and more. Before becoming deputy editor, Christine Cyr Clisset oversaw Wirecutters bedding coverage, and she has long-term tested our sheet picks since 2015. Garment-washed for a luxe, lived-in texture that gets softer with time. Tumble dry low, removing promptly. The West Elm Belgian Flax Linen Sheet Set doesnt come with as many bells and whistles as other sets, but it is a more affordable option that can be customized for a fee. Our Fair Trade Certified and Handcrafted collections do even more to support the communities who make them. But Europe isnt the only place that produces quality flax. The Cultiver sheets typically come in around 14 colors (plus three prints), which is the widest selection of any of our top contending sets.