9 best linen sheets and sheet sets for your bed
Here are some of the best linen sheets out there but don’t say we didn’t warn you — once you go linen, you may never go back to regular sheets.
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There’s just something about linen that makes it look better on a bed than other sheets.
At least that’s what the sales assistant told me as I mulled over buying my first linen sheet set five years ago.
Fast-forward and I now have four sets all in different colours ranging from silvery blue, green, oatmeal and rust orange.
Linen sheets can be an investment but, in my opinion, a worthwhile one — they get softer each time you wash them, you don’t need to iron them (hooray!) and the colours don’t seem to fade as quickly as other types of sheet sets I’ve previously owned.
Here are some of the best linen sheets out there according to customer reviews and our picks including our current top pick the Olive Stripe & Sage Bedding Bundle from Bed Threads which is 35 per cent off right now.
But don’t say I haven’t warned you — once you go linen, you may never go back to regular sheets.
*All prices reflect Queen-sized options, except where stated otherwise, so make sure to jump through the links for alternative sizes and pricing.
BEST LINEN SHEETS
Olive Stripe & Sage Bedding Bundle, $460.80 (down from $720) at Bed Threads
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
If you’ve been on social media in the last few years, there’s a high likelihood that you’ve heard of Bed Threads. Known for its linen sheet sets in vibrant hues, the Australian brand has well and truly changed the game when it comes to bedding.
Made from 100 per cent French flax linen in a breathable 170 GSM fabrication, these sheets not only look great but feel great too. They’re also anti-static, anti-bacterial and naturally temperature-regulating. I’ve been using these sheets for a couple of years now and can hand-on-heart say they are the best sheets I’ve ever owned.
Now there is no doubt, they’re expensive. But in my opinion, they are 100 per cent worth it due to their high quality and durability. They just last so long. Also, this set comes with one queen duvet cover, one queen fitted sheet, one queen flat sheet, and four standard pillowcases. Most other sets on this list only come with a fitted sheet, a flat sheet and two pillowcases. If you are just after sheets or would like to look at other colours, check that out here.
Flax Linen Sheet Sets, $206.50 (down from $295) at Ecosa
What You Need To Know
Crafted from 85 per cent European flax linen and 15 per cent bamboo, these sheets are soft as soon as they arrive. Unlike other linen which can be rough and take a while to soften, these sheets have been blended with the softest bamboo so that they are perfectly ready for you.
The breathable terra linen material is also ideal for the Australian weather, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer.
Sustainable and 100 per cent biodegradable, you can truly feel good when you tuck yourself in each night.
From 716 reviews, these sheets are currently sitting at 4.7 stars. “This flax linen set is so beautiful and soft, after one wash it is even better. I love the colour, the organic and ethical practices and the way it fits in with my room. The quality is spicy and is the perfect gift!”, says one five-star review.
Another says, “The flax linen bedding is divine! The quality is superb, the stitching is excellent, and the fitted sheet comes with directions for making the bed! SO no more wondering which way is lengthways or other. I will buy again and I highly recommend making a purchase of these.”
What You Need To Know
Made from 100 per cent Belgian linen, this sheet set is not only soft to the touch but also super breathable. The set includes one flat sheet, one fitted sheet and two standard pillowcases.
It’s also available in three other colours and you can also score free standard delivery.
Five-star reviews say they would “definitely buy again” and that it’s “luxury quality at an affordable price”.
Sheridan Washed Linen Cotton Fitted Sheet, $125 (down from $249) at Sheridan Outlet
What You Need To Know
For those looking for a budget version, this mixed linen blend sheet from Sheridan is a great option.
Made from 55 per cent linen and 45 per cent cotton the sheets will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter, while also becoming softer with each wash.
Bambury French Linen Sheet Set, $285.97 (down from $439.95) at Amazon Australia
What You Need To Know
Made from 100 per cent French linen, this sheet set from Amazon is seriously luxe-looking and conveniently pre-washed, meaning they’ll arrive at your door already soft and preshrunk.
They’re available in three great neutral shades, charcoal, ivory and silver meaning they will be easy to pair with any existing quilt covers you have.
Sheet Society Eve Linen Print Full Sheet Set, $392 (down from $490) at THE ICONIC
What You Need To Know
Want your sheets to bring a bit of personality to your room? This checked set from Sheet Society is a great option.
Made from 100 per cent certified French flax linen, it features a 3cm wide ribbed elastic hem, deep walls to fit taller mattresses and fold back hems on all edges of the flat sheet.
Vintage Washed Linen Dusty Blue Sheet Set, $314.99 (down from $449.99) at Adairs
What You Need To Know
This Adairs set comes pre-washed for a vintage look and is made from 100 per cent linen using flax fibres sourced from France.
It’s available in seven other colourways and you can also purchase each bedding item separately here if you want to pick up some extra pillowcases.
This is also a best seller year on year at Adairs so you know it’s a great choice to invest in.
The sale price is for members/Linen Lovers only.
Morgan & Finch Milano Linen Sheet Set - White, $209.95 (down from $349.95) at Bed, Bath n’ Table
What You Need To Know
Currently marked down by 40 per cent, these 100 per cent linen sheet sets from Morgan & Finch are made using French flax.
They come pre-washed, in eight different colours and can be purchased alongside the range’s matching quilt cover. Plus, they’re also hypoallergenic and breathable to help you sleep better all year long.
Sheridan Shaws Sheet Set, $190 (down from $379.99) at Sheridan Outlet
What You Need To Know
If you’re not a huge fan of the textured linen look, these half-price sheet sets are a great option that will give you some of the benefits of linen while maintaining that crisp cotton sheet look.
Made from 10 per cent line and 90 per cent cotton, they’re a great option for those looking to trial linen sheets.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING LINEN SHEETS
When choosing linen sheets to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Fabric: Yes, this article is dedicated to linen sheets but we also included some blends to cater for all budgets and preferences.
Budget: Linen sheets can often be very expensive so we looked at products that are more affordable as well as items that are on sale too.
GSM: Unlike cotton sheets where thread count is important, when it comes to linen it is all about GSM, grams per square metre. Lower GSMs mean the sheets will be lighter and usually work well for warm climates whereas higher GSMs (200+) are heavier and more durable but often aren't as soft. Something in the middle around 170 is normally a good option for the Australian climate.
Care: For most linen sheets, it's recommended that you don't tumble dry in order to prolong its life but for many people, this isn't practical so we made sure to include both types of sheets on our list.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
With hundreds of sheets available, it’s impossible to test every one out there. To help you find the best linen sheets we tested some well-known brands at different price points. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best linen sheets from premium to budget to help you find the right one for your home.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHY IS LINEN MORE EXPENSIVE THAN OTHER BEDDING FABRICS?
In short, it’s because linen sheets are the “fine jewellery” of bed linen.
Producing linen is more costly and time-consuming than other bedding materials as the linen fibre is hidden within the flax stalks.
There’s less availability, with the vast majority of linen flax grown only in Europe.
Linen also has a range of extra features that other bedding simply doesn’t – for starters, it’s much more durable – around two to three times stronger than the average cotton sheet.
It also has antibacterial properties, is a natural insulator, holds its shape, doesn’t pill and gets softer with each wash.
HOW DO I WASH LINEN SHEETS?
Linen sheets should be washed in a gentle washing machine cycle on a cold or warm setting- no more than 30 degrees is ideal.
Avoid strong washing detergents or bleach, with Bed Threads recommending liquid washing detergent over powder versions.
There’s no need to iron linen sheets once they dry. It’s recommended to air dry them on a washing line for that soft finish, however you can also use a dryer.
More Coverage
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