Linen vs Cotton Sheets: We Slept in Both And This Is the Best One

I have an obsession with bedding. To me, there’s nothing quite like the perfect set of sheets to complete my sanctuary. Over the years, I’ve collected so many sets of linens and cotton sheets (tip: always buy them on sale!). With summer heat making things more challenging, the type of sheets you use can make all the difference. I am putting both linen and cotton sheets to the test to find the best one for summer. Let’s see which one wins in this linen vs cotton battle!

My Experience with Linen Sheets

Linen sheets have a reputation for being the epitome of cool and breathable bedding. Made from the fibers of the flax plant, they’re known for their durability and unique texture. When I first got my linen sheets, I was a bit skeptical about their rough feel. But after a few washes, they started to soften and became much more comfortable. Linen sheets have this relaxed, casual look that I absolutely love. They’re naturally wrinkled, which adds to their charm and saves you from the hassle of ironing.

What I noticed immediately was how breathable linen sheets are. During those hot summer nights, linen kept me cool and dry. They wick away moisture effectively, which is a blessing if you’re prone to night sweats. Despite their initial roughness, they don’t feel scratchy against the skin. Instead, they have a textured, almost massaging feel that becomes addictive. I also appreciated their durability. Linen is tough and can last for years without showing signs of wear and tear.

My Experience with Cotton Sheets

Cotton sheets, especially those made from high-quality Egyptian cotton, are another staple in my bedding collection. They are soft, smooth, and get better with every wash. Cotton is incredibly versatile, offering a range of weaves from crisp percale to silky sateen. When I slept on cotton sheets, I enjoyed their immediate comfort. They have that familiar, cozy feel that makes you want to dive into bed and stay there.

One of the standout features of cotton sheets is their affordability and availability. They come in a myriad of colors and patterns, allowing you to match your sheets with any decor. In terms of breathability, percale cotton sheets were a close contender to linen. They felt light and airy, perfect for summer nights. However, sateen cotton sheets, while luxurious, tended to feel a bit warmer, making them more suitable for cooler weather.

Related: Best Cotton Bed Sheets

Types of Cotton

Cotton sheets can vary greatly depending on the type of cotton used and how it’s woven:

Egyptian Cotton: Known for its long fibers, Egyptian cotton is luxurious, durable, and soft. It’s often considered the highest quality cotton.

Pima Cotton: Similar to Egyptian cotton, Pima cotton has long fibers that make it soft and durable.

Sateen Cotton: This cotton is woven in a way that produces a silky, smooth finish with a slight sheen. It’s heavier and less breathable than percale.

Percale Cotton: With a plain weave, percale cotton is crisp, cool, and breathable, making it ideal for hot sleepers.

Linen vs Cotton: What I Liked and Didn’t Like

Breathability

When it comes to breathability, both linen and cotton sheets are excellent, but they perform differently. In my test, I found linen to be more breathable, largely due to its loose weave and the natural feel. This allows for better airflow and keeps you cool and dry, especially during the hot summer months. If you’re living in warm climates, linen sheets should be your go-to.

Cotton, on the other hand, is also breathable but varies depending on the weave. Percale cotton, with its one-over-one-under weave, has a crisp, cool feel, which makes it a good option for hot sleepers. Sateen cotton, with its tighter weave, tends to be less breathable and can retain more heat, making it a better choice for cooler climates or those who prefer a slightly warmer sleep environment.

I am a hot sleeper, and I prefer linen over cotton overall when it comes to breathability.

Bedding Suitability

Choosing between linen and cotton sheets often comes down to personal preference and budget. Linen sheets offer a relaxed, airy feel that improves with each wash, becoming softer and more comfortable over time. I hated my linen sheets when I first got them because of their grainy texture that felt prickly against the skin, and it took around 10 washes to get to that soft old-t-shirt feel. The natural, slightly textured look of linen also adds a rustic charm for that lived-in aesthetic.

Cotton sheets, especially those made from high-quality cotton like Egyptian or Pima, have a smooth, soft texture right out of the box, so it was a relief not to go through so many wash cycles to get it to feel comfortable. Cotton is versatile, from the crispness of percale to the silky smoothness of sateen which makes it a great bedding material for all climates.

Price Comparison

This is a big one. Linen sheets are a lot more expensive due to the labor-intensive process of harvesting and processing flax fibers. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 and $400 for a high-quality linen sheet set. The price can vary depending on the brand, thread count, and any additional treatments like stonewashing. This is a huge factor because linen does require a bit more care, and it’s more delicate than cotton, so it’s more prone to snagging or ripping.

Cotton sheets, while varying in price based on the type of cotton and weave, are generally more affordable than linen. A set of good-quality Egyptian cotton sheets can range from $100 to $300. Pima cotton sheets are slightly less expensive, typically ranging from $80 to $250. Standard cotton sheets, which may use shorter-staple cotton, can be found for as low as $50 to $150.

I still prefer linin over cotton, though, because the price tag is so worth the look and the feel of the fabric!

Care and Maintenance

Linen

Linen sheets have a unique charm, but they require a bit more care to maintain their quality and comfort. When you first get your linen sheets, I recommend washing them a couple of times to soften them up. Adding a little vinegar to the wash cycle can help with this process. Initially, linen can feel a bit coarse, but with each wash and use, it becomes softer and gains more character. This is one of the great things about linen – it improves over time.

It’s normal for linen to produce a lot of lint during the first few washes. This is just part of the process as the fabric softens. Make sure to avoid using high heat when washing and drying your linen sheets. Stick to lower heat and cool cycles to prevent damaging the fabric. Over time, you’ll notice that the sheets wrinkle less after multiple washes. This is a huge plus, as it gives your bed that relaxed, lived-in look without appearing messy.

Cotton

Cotton sheets are generally easier to care for than linen. To minimize wrinkles, transfer them directly from the washer to the dryer and then to the bed while they’re still slightly damp. Ending the drying cycle on a cool setting can also help reduce wrinkles. However, if you let them sit in the dryer too long, you’re likely to end up with more wrinkles.

Cotton sheets may start to pill after extensive use and multiple washes. This is especially true for lower-quality cotton. To maintain their softness and appearance, avoid over-drying and consider using a gentle wash cycle. Cotton is durable, but taking these extra steps can help extend the life and comfort of your sheets.

Related: Best King Size Sheets

Pros and Cons of Linen Sheets

Pros

• Excellent for hot climates and hot sleepers
• Strong and long-lasting linen sheets can last for many years
• Great at keeping you dry and comfortable
• Linen has a distinct, relaxed look that many find appealing

Cons

• Generally more expensive than cotton
• Can feel rough or scratchy initially, though it softens over time
• Prone to wrinkling and may require more maintenance

Pros and Cons of Cotton Sheets

Pros

• Cotton sheets, especially those made from Egyptian or Pima cotton, are incredibly soft and comfortable
• Available in a variety of weaves and finishes to suit different preferences
• Machine washable and less prone to wrinkling than linen
• Generally more affordable than linen, with a range of options to fit different budgets

Cons

• Some cotton weaves, like sateen, can retain more heat
• Lower-quality cotton sheets can pill over time

Final Thoughts

After sleeping on both linen and cotton sheets, I found that each has its own unique benefits but linen is the best material for bedding (at least for me). It really excels in breathability and durability, making it a fantastic choice for hot sleepers and those who appreciate a more textured feel. I also love the rustic charm and the cozy lived-in feel of linen that goes with the overall theme of my bedroom.