The 8 best linen sheets of 2024, tested and reviewed

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Blue linen sheet set on a bed — Linen is a top choice for sheets thanks to its breathability, and durability while offering a laidback, timeless look.
Shannon Ullman/Business Insider

The right bedding can be the difference between a restorative, restful evening and a night of tossing and turning. While cotton, silk, and microfiber sheets have long been popular choices for the best sheets, linen has a loyal following due to its breathability, durability, and timeless look. Linen sheets are made from all-natural fibers that come from the flax plant. These fibers are typically thicker, longer, and more intricately woven than other fabrics, like cotton. As a highly sought-after (and expensive) fabric, the best linen sheets are the ones that truly live up to their reputation.

For the past month, I slept on 10 different brands of linen sheets to evaluate their fit, feel, and overall quality. I also spoke with several sleep and textile experts on the benefits of linen and how to find a set that will last. After much deliberation, my top pick is the Brooklinen Washed Linen Core Sheet Set because it has a soft, luxe bedding feel without being overly heavy or stifling. Another beloved option is the Sijo LuxeWeave Linen Sheet set, made of organic, small-batch linen that sleeps cool and gets softer with each wash. Keep reading to find out which sheets are worth investing in for a better night's sleep.

Our top picks for linen sheets

Best overall: Brooklinen Washed Linen Core Sheet - See at Brooklinen
Linen can be known to be rough and itchy, but these linen sheets are remarkably soft, airy, cooling, and durable.

Best budget: Quince Linen Sheet Set - See at Quince
Made from 100% European flax, this soft and durable set comes in under $200.

Best organic: Sijo LuxWeave Linen Sheet Set - See at Sijo
If you want your bedding to be both vibrant and long-lasting, Sijo is the way to go.

Most heavyweight: Coyuchi Organic Relaxed Linen Sheets - See at Coyuchi
With a heavy yet breathable feel, these luxury sheets are designed to last longer than most.

Best cooling: Parachute Linen Sheet Set - See at Parachute
These ultra-thin sheets are a hot sleeper's dream: cooling, breathable, and a lightweight feel that only gets softer over time.

Softest: West Elm European Flax Linen Sheet Set - See at West Elm
The softness of these sheets is enough to convert any jersey-knit stan into a linen believer.

Best all-season: The Citizenry Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set - See at The Citizenry
With a weight that falls right in the middle of airy and heavy-duty, these durable sheets will keep you cozy all year long.

Best color selection: MagicLinen Sheet Set - See at MagicLinen
MagicLinen's comfortable linen sets include a deep option for thick mattresses and wear beautifully over time. You'll also get the most color choice here.

Best overall: Brooklinen Washed Linen Core Sheet

Pros: Soft feel, nice packaging, top and bottom tags included, no itchiness, feels durable despite being on the thinner side, can buy separate pieces or sets without a top sheet

Cons: Some slight pilling after washing, limited edition colors sell out fast

While all of the linen sets I tried claimed to be soft, some still had an underlying roughness or stiffness to them. Not the case here — this Brooklinen set felt like sleeping on a cloud straight out of the bag. There was no itchiness; the sheets only got softer with each wash.

The weight is also perfect for hot sleepers. Typically, linen sheets indicate a heavier material that leaves some people feeling trapped and overheated. But this linen set is thin and light enough to maintain a cool temperature throughout the night. Some lightweight sheets can feel flimsy, but these had a high-quality feel that held up nicely without any rips or tears.

The packaging was also a nice touch, coming in a cloth bag for storage. In terms of durability, I did notice some slight pilling after washing, but nothing that affected the overall feel or comfort of the sheets.

Anyone who cares about the aesthetic of their bedding will love that there are five colors to choose from, as well as some limited edition palettes. The set comes with the standard essentials: a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and two pillowcases, but Brooklinen also sells individual pieces and sets without a flat sheet if that's your preference. Most Brooklinen items can be returned within a year, but you are subjected to a $9.95 return fee.

Best budget: Quince Linen Sheet Set

An orange linen sheet set on a bed with a gray duvet. — Quince’s linen sheet set is available in over 20 colors and cost under $200, making it one of the most affordable sets.
Shannon Ullman/Business Insider

Pros: Super soft yet durable feel, top and bottom tags included, no pilling

Cons: Sleeps warm

When it comes to color options, Quince's linen sheets reign supreme, with over 20 different shades to snuggle under. From a deep Bordeaux to the ultra-airy sage or a timeless terracotta and white stripe, there's a color for every taste and bedroom aesthetic. But these sheets aren't just about looks — they also deliver on comfort and durability.

Made from 100% European flax, these sheets have a soft feel that falls directly in between Brooklinen's Washed Linen Core Sheets and Sijo's LuxeWeave Linen Sheets. The material was quite luxurious and inviting, albeit a bit warm. So, if you sleep on the hotter side, you might want to give these thicker sheets a pass.

Quince also passed the test for two major sheet sticking points: pilling and bed-making. The fitted sheet comes with those handy top and bottom tags, and both layers went through the wash without pilling. For those who like a monochromatic look, Quince also has duvet covers in the same color options as the sheets.

Additionally, Quince has a 365-day return policy (yes, you read that right), so if these linen sheets aren't your cup of tea after trying them out, you can return them within a year for a full refund.

Best organic: Sijo LuxWeave Linen Sheet Set

A green linen sheet set on a bed with a gray duvet — In addition to being organic, the Sijo LuxWeave Linen set is a great option for those who are looking to try linen for the first time, with a design that gets softer with time and sleeps cool.
Shannon Ullman/Business Insider

Pros: Vibrant color options, easy to put on, durable feel, holds up after washing, doesn't feel too hot or too cold

Cons: Fabric is rough and itchy, some fuzzies and loose white strings upon opening, no top and bottom tags

These Sijo sheets feel like what you'd imagine most linen sheets to be: rough, stiff, and slightly itchy. While this set may not be the softest on the market, it certainly makes up for it in the durability department, and they get softer with each wash.

Others across the Insider Reviews team who've slept on the sheets for years described the Sijo sheets as "the right balance of comfort, coolness, durability, and price." They were previously our top pick for the best linen sheets — only to be edged out by Brooklinen for their out-of-the-packaging softness — and rank in our guide to the best sheets as our top pick for cooling sheets.

Despite the initial fuzzies and loose, white strings I found when making the bed, the sheets held up well after washing without any pilling or loose threads. Putting on the fitted sheet was easy, and it stayed in place throughout the night, but I did find myself wishing for top and bottom tags as a reference point, like with our overall pick from Brooklinen.

Where this set really shines is in its vibrant color options. I opted for the forest green, but there are eight total shades to choose from, and the set comes with the standard essentials. Linen is known for its temperature-regulating properties, and I found these sheets to be neither too hot nor too cold. So if you're a neutral sleeper looking for a more durable linen option, the LuxWeave Linen by Sijo is worth considering.

Most heavyweight: Coyuchi Organic Relaxed Linen Sheets

A grey linen sheet set on a bed with a gray duvet — Coyuchi’s Organic Relaxed Linen Sheets are an investment that are durable, well-made and comfortable for use for years to come.
Shannon Ullman/Business Insider

Pros: Material feels heavy and durable, making the bed was easy, sheets held up after washing

Cons: Initial feeling was stiff and rough, no top and bottom tags, bottom sheet had some pilling and loose threads, expensive, no twin-sizes

Linen sheets tend to have that lightweight feel, which is why they're a popular option among hot sleepers. But if you like your bedding to have a bit more heft (especially during those cold winter nights), Coyuchi's organic linen set may be right up your alley. The sheets — which come in seven neutral colors — feel heavy and substantial but still breathable enough to prevent waking up in a pool of sweat. While the Sijo and Coyuchi sets are both organic and durable, the Coyuchi definitely feels more heavy-duty. If you're looking for a linen sheet to get you through the chilly winter nights, Coyuchi may be your best bet.

Immediately out of the package, these linen sheets felt like linen sheets: stiff and a little rough. But the fabric definitely felt durable, and overall, the set was easy to throw on the bed. I did notice a few pilling spots and loose threads on the fitted sheet, as well as a lack of top and bottom tags, which isn't ideal for a higher-priced set.

Although Coyuchi lists no certifications, the sheets are made from 100% organic French flax, and the brand prides itself on its sustainable practices. Overall, if you're looking for a luxurious and organic linen option that will last longer than most, Coyuchi's Relaxed Linen Sheets are worth considering. Just be prepared to spend a bit more on quality and sustainability.

Best cooling: Parachute Linen Sheet Set

A brown linen sheet set on a bed with a gray duvet — If you sleep hot, Parachute’s linen sheets are incredibly breathable and lightweight, making them ideal for warmer months, too.
Shannon Ullman/Business Insider

Pros: Soft feel that gets softer with each wash, cooling, washes well, easy to put on the bed

Cons: Thin material may not be as durable, no storage bag included

For those who prefer to mix and match their bedding pieces, Parachute's linen sheet set is the perfect option. Sold separately in flat sheets, fitted sheets, and pillowcases, you can create a personalized set with only the pieces you need. They even offer multiple pillowcase styles.

Beyond the customization perks, these sheets were practically made for hot sleepers. The ultra-thin material is incredibly cooling and breathable, with a lightweight feel that only gets softer with each wash. Plus, the sheets themselves are easy to put on the bed, which can be a struggle with thicker or stiffer materials.

Made from 100% European flax and certified by Oeko-Tex Standard 100, these sheets are high quality and adhere to safe textile production practices. However, the thin material may not be as durable as some of the other options on this list, so keep that in mind if you tend to put your bedding through the wringer.

Unfortunately, Parachute does not offer a storage bag with their linen sheet set. But they do offer eight color options and free returns within 60 days — plenty of time to decide if these sheets are the key to your best night's sleep.

Softest: West Elm European Flax Linen Sheet Set

A gray linen sheet set on a bed with a gray duvet — For those who prioritize all things soft, the West Elm European Flax Linen Sheet impressed us for its immediate softness, breathability, and vast color selection.
Shannon Ullman/Business Insider

Pros: Immediate softness, cooling material, washes without pilling or shrinking

Cons: Elastic on fitted sheet seems flimsy, some loose threads, doesn't seem as durable, no twin-sizes

West Elm's European Flax Linen Sheet Set is a game changer for those who prioritize softness above all else. You'll find none of that classic linen roughness here. Made from 100% European flax and certified by Oeko-Tex Standard 100, these sheets have a noticeable softness right out of the package that only gets cozier with each wash.

But unlike cotton-esque softness that can feel stifling and hot, the linen material is incredibly breathable and cooling. It's like sleeping on a cloud but without the sweat. I was also pleasantly surprised by how well these sheets held up in the wash — no pilling or shrinking issues to be found.

While the immediate softness is a major plus, some factors make me question how durable these sheets will be in the long run. Putting on the fitted sheet was easy, but the elastic felt a bit flimsy and loose. There were also some loose threads on the pillowcase, another indicator that these sheets may not be able to withstand heavy usage.

If you're willing to overlook those concerns for the sake of ultimate softness, then these linen sheets are a great option. They come in 22 different color options (note: some hues are made-to-order and take longer to receive) and have a 30-day return policy if they don't live up to your expectations.

Best all-season: The Citizenry Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set

Pros: Material feels durable and high-quality, washes well, easy to put on, feels soft (but not overly soft)

Cons: Sleeps slightly warm, has a somewhat rough texture, and no twin sizes

For those looking for a linen sheet set that can handle the thick humidity of July and the blustery storms of December, look no further than The Citizenry. The brand's Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set has a weight of 160 gsm, making it the perfect middle ground between lightweight and heavy-duty.

Also, right in the middle? It's texture. I wouldn't put it in the category of ultra-rough linen as it has some softness to it, but it's definitely not like curling up in a pile of marshmallows. However, the material feels durable and high-quality, giving you confidence that these sheets will hold up well over time.

In terms of practicality, these sheets are a dream. They're easy to put on your bed without any major wrinkling or shrinking post-wash. And speaking of washing, they come out looking and feeling great with each cycle. One downside to these sheets is that they do sleep slightly warm. It's not unbearable (especially when the temperatures drop), but it could be an issue for those who run extra-hot at night.

More good news? You've got 14 colors and three patterns to choose from and 30 days to decide if these sheets are the all-season option for you.

Best color selection: MagicLinen Sheet Set

a bed on a wooden platform inside a bedroom made with mint green linen sheets. — MagicLinen specializes in only linen products, with sheet sets available in 20 colors and a deep pocket option, too.
MagicLinen

Pros: Looks and feels better over time, comes in many colors, suitable for thick mattresses, OEKO-Tex certified

Cons: Takes some time to become softer and more comfortable

Linen is the only thing you can buy from MagicLinen, which is precisely the reason it's been able to edge out other brands that have only treated the material as one more piece of their larger bedding puzzles.

All of its products are handcrafted in Vilnius, Lithuania. The linen is stonewashed — a softening process that's completely natural and non-toxic — and OEKO-Tex certified, meaning it meets chemical safety standards and is free from harmful substances.

These sheets particularly stood out to executive editor Sally Kaplan because they come in deep options for mattresses up to 18 inches thick, a sizing that's usually difficult to find for linen. The standard size fits mattresses up to 10 inches thick.

According to Sally, MagicLinen's sheets aren't the softest out of the bag, but after two years of use, they've aged well, getting softer and cozier with every wash. MagicLinen offers a 30-day trial, but return shipping is the responsibility of the customer.

If you're not sure yet about committing, you can get fabric samples. A set of all the colors only costs $5, plus you'll get a $5 discount off your next purchase.

Read our full review of the MagicLinen linen sheet set here.

What to look for in a set of linen sheets

Not all linen sheets are created equal. So we consulted with the textile expert, co-founder, and CEO of Steamery Frej Lewenhaupt, on the telltale signs that a set of linen sheets is worth investing in.

Fiber Content: Lewenhaupt says a good rule of thumb is that the fewer synthetic fibers on a label, the better. If a brand lists out more than four fibers in its blend or doesn't advertise specific percentages, that's a red flag. Aim for linen sheets made with 100% flax.

Flax Origin: Linen is constructed out of the flax plant — and where that plant is grown can make a huge difference in the quality of the final product. Flax linen is typically soft, durable, temperature-regulating, and absorbent.

Weight: Linen's weight is measured in grams per square meter (GSM.) A high GSM will typically result in a denser fabric, while a lower GSM might feel more lightweight. Linen tends to be either lightweight or medium-weight. For example, a lightweight linen may be about 130 GSM, while a medium-weight linen could be 150 to 350 GSM. The higher the GSM, the warmer the linen sheet might feel while sleeping.

Certifications: Look for certifications like Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which confirms that a product is free of harmful chemicals.

How we tested

To determine which linen sheets are really worth your while, I tested 10 of the most highly-rated sets and slept on them for multiple nights to measure their feel, weight, durability, and overall comfort. Each set was tested for three nights in a row and washed and dried once. I also consulted with experts, like Frej Lewenhaupt, a textile expert, co-founder, and CEO of Steamery, and Martin Bide, a professor in the department of textiles at the University of Rhode Island, for insights on which factors I should pay special attention to. These are the factors I took into consideration when testing each set:

Immediate softness: Linen gets a bad rap for being rough and scratchy, but that's not always the case. I noted how soft each set felt upon first touch and snooze.

Weight: I considered the weight (GSM) of each set. The higher the GSM, the heavier and thicker the material. I kept the weight of each set in mind and whether it resulted in a hotter or cooler sleep experience.

Post-wash feel: Some sheets come out of the dryer looking and feeling like they've been through a war. Others, not so much. After washing and drying each set, I looked for any signs of pilling, shedding, shrinking, or wrinkling.

Ease of use: We've all wrestled with a fitted sheet at some point. I noted how easy (or difficult) it was to get each set onto the bed without any significant wrinkles, creases, or bunching.

Durability: Linen's durability is a big selling point for many, as the textile can last years if properly cared for. I looked for signs of wear and tear and how durable the material felt.

FAQ

What is linen?

Linen is an all-natural fiber that comes from the flax plant. Linen fibers are long and strong, making them a more durable fabric that is also highly absorbent, naturally moisture-wicking, and dries quickly compared to other options like cotton.

Why is linen so expensive?

Linen is expensive because it can only be grown in certain locations, and the production process is labor-intensive. Flax plants prefer cooler climates and are typically grown in European locations like Belgium. The growing and processing of flax plants into linen is time-consuming and labor-intensive, which drives up the price.

How to care for linen sheets?

Linen sheets aren't exactly high maintenance, but there are a few tips for keeping your linen sheets well-cared for. When washing linen sheets, avoid hot water that could break down the fibers. Instead, opt for warm water and a delicate wash setting. Try to avoid harsh chemicals in laundry detergents that could break down linen fibers and cause discoloration. Consider air-drying linen sheets to preserve durability, but using a dryer on a low heat, tumble setting should work just fine.

Why would you want linen sheets?

Other than enjoying the aesthetic, Bide recommends linen sheets for hot sleepers or anyone who enjoys a cooler sleep since linen is absorbent and has a "cool" feel.

Linen sheets vs. cotton — What's the difference?

Lewenhaupt says linen is typically more durable than cotton as the fibers have a longer and more open structure. This structure is also what makes linen more absorbent, which is what gives them that cooling sensation.

Are linen sheets for hot sleepers?

According to Bide, yes. He says that linen is known to be absorbent, hence its use for dish towels and old-fashioned handkerchiefs. You're unlikely to get that "clammy" feeling from a linen sheet, making it a great option for hot sleepers.

Are linen sheets best?

There is no "best" when it comes to sheets, as what you sleep on is largely a matter of personal preference. However, linen sheets tend to be durable and long-lasting.

What is the best quality linen?

Linen made from Flax grown in France or Belgium is the highest quality, according to Lewenhaupt.

Do hotels use linen sheets?

Some hotels use linen sheets, but most use high-quality cotton sheets in their bedding.

Do you sleep better with linen sheets?

There is no scientific evidence that linen sheets help you sleep better, as the material you sleep best on is a matter of preference. But if you tend to sleep hot, the breathability of linen may be beneficial.

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