Softer with Time: Why Linen Gets Better the More You Love

Some of the best things in life get better with age. A favourite jumper, a classic novel, a well-loved leather armchair… they all develop a unique character and comfort that simply can’t be bought off the shelf. And we’re completely and utterly convinced that beautiful linen bedding belongs on that list.

One of the questions we get asked all the time is, “Do linen sheets get softer over time?” We’re always so excited to answer with a massive, resounding yes. Unlike some fabrics that can feel their best on day one and fade over time, our  100% linen bedding is on a completely different journey. It’s a wonderful investment that doesn’t just last, it evolves, becoming more wonderfully soft and comfortable the more you use, wash, and love it.

So, let's explore the magic of this incredible fabric and the brilliant benefits of linen bedding.

Ever wondered why your linen gets so lovely and soft? The secret lies in the humble flax plant from which it’s made. Linen is created from the long, strong fibres inside the plant's stalk. When your bedding is new, these fibres are firm and crisp.

With every wash and every night you snuggle up in bed, the water and gentle movement work their magic. The fibres relax, and the pectin that binds them together gently breaks down. This allows the weave to become softer, more flexible, and more supple without compromising the fabric’s incredible strength. 

Think of it like your favourite denim jeans - they’re a bit stiff at first, but over time, they soften and shape to you perfectly. That’s exactly what your linen bedding is doing. 

That ever-improving softness is one of the many benefits of sleeping on linen sheets. It’s a true wonder-fabric that works hard to keep you comfortable and stylish all year round. 

Firstly, it’s a brilliant natural temperature regulator. The hollow flax fibres make linen wonderfully breathable, helping to keep you cool on those warm summer nights and acting as a natural insulator to keep you snug when the weather turns chilly. 

Beyond comfort, linen is also incredibly durable. Flax is one of the strongest natural fibres in the world, which means your  linen bedding is built to last for years and years, making it a truly worthwhile investment. This durability is matched by its kindness to skin, as linen is naturally hypoallergenic, and its moisture-wicking properties help keep your bed fresh. 

Of course, we also absolutely adore its effortless style; that relaxed, perfectly imperfect look adds a layer of natural texture and sophistication to any bedroom. If you're still deciding on the right fabric, our  cotton or linen bedding guide might help.

So, you’re looking for tips on how to make linen softer? The fantastic news is that the best method is also the simplest: just use and wash it. The more you love your linen, the softer it will get. However, you can do a few simple things to help the process along. 

1. Wash carefully: A gentle, cool wash (around 40 degrees) is perfect for linen. There’s no need for high temperatures.
2. Give it room: Don’t overload your washing machine. Give your sheets plenty of room to move around in the water, which helps them soften and get beautifully clean.
3. Tumble dry on low: A gentle tumble dry on a low heat can work wonders for softening the fibres. We love to use wool dryer balls as a brilliant, chemical-free alternative to fabric softener.
4. Skip the fabric softener: It might seem counterintuitive, but conventional fabric softeners can coat the natural fibres of the linen, hindering their ability to soften on their own.

Our  Linen and Hemp Bedding Care Guide has all the information you need to care for your new favourite bedding. It provides a detailed guide to caring for linen and hemp.

Choosing linen is choosing bedding that grows with you. It’s a little bit of luxury that doesn’t fade but flourishes over time, becoming a soft and familiar part of your home.

Ready to start your linen love story? Have a peek at our full collection of beautiful  bedding.