Do you remember the last time you stayed at a three or five-star hotel or resort? One thing you’ll easily recall is the lavish comfort and satisfaction you get when you lay down on the bed.
Did you know you can get the same feeling right in your own home? That’s all thanks to luxury linen sheets. Having them in your bedroom may make it hard for you to tell the difference between sleeping at home or in a high-class vacation spot.
But before you buy the first set you lay your eyes on, it's essential to understand the art and science behind selecting the perfect ones.
Here’s what you need to know about buying a luxury linen sheet set:
Know what sets it apart
When choosing linen sheets, you must first know the different materials available in the market today.
Cotton is one of the most popular materials used in making sheets. This material is both super soft and comfortable, as well as durable and breathable. High-quality, fine-yarn cotton sheets made with long-staple fibres make the best luxury sheets.
Other materials used to make quality sheets include bamboo, polyester, and silk. Sometimes, these are mixed to produce different textures and create varying levels of comfort. Picking a specific type may help you add personality to your bedroom.
So, what makes linen different?
Linen has been observed to offer a specific level of luxury. It competes with cotton in terms of breathability, making you feel extremely cosy, even under many layers of it. This fabric is also naturally wicking, which makes it perfect for warm climates. In contrast to cotton sheets that feel smooth and crisp, luxury linen sheets offer texture and dimension.
Ensure it fits your bed well
The next factor to consider when buying linen sheets is the size. Be sure to measure your mattress before you buy. This step should be a given if you want your linen sheet set to fit perfectly.
You may also want to think about the amount of shrinkage after washing. Some sheets get smaller after being placed in a dryer. The key is to spare a few inches in your measurements to avoid sheets that are too small. Knowing how to take care of your bed linens will also help you keep your sheets for much longer before having to replace them.
Keep measurements on a list to stay safe. Also, you should compare the sizing charts of different linen brands. Not all follow the same metrics when it comes to setting their sizes.
Avoid getting hung up on the thread count
A fabric's thread count refers to its vertical and horizontal thread count in one square inch.
When buying fabric, it is important to know the difference between thread count and quality. Thread count is based on the theory that more threads per inch, the finer the yarn. More yarn pieces in one square inch of fabric will result in a smooth and strong weave.
High thread counts can be achieved without actually enhancing quality through manufacturing techniques. For this reason, it's important not to dwell on it. While this is an important factor, it doesn't entirely determine the quality of sheets. It has been found that a softness and strength sweet-spot lies between a 300 and 500 thread count. However, you can always find great-quality sheets at a thread count of 200.
For your reference, woven sheets have their respective thread counts. For instance, percale sheets usually have a thread count of 200 to 300. Sateen sheets have a thread count of 300 to 600, while linen sheets should have a thread count of 80 to 120. However, it's not uncommon for thread counts to be inflated as a way of making sheets appear better than they are. Therefore, it's not wise to depend on thread count when deciding what sheets to shop for.
Be familiar with the weave types
There are three common weave types. Percale has a thread count of at least 180 and is usually used for sheets because it is crisp and durable. The second one is sateen, where threads are integrated into a satin weave, producing a lustrous, soft feel. These tend to be less durable than tighter weaves. Lastly, you can have combed, which is made of long fibres and is combed to remove short fibres.
The ideal weave type depends on the feel you're going for in your linen sheets. As a rule, it should feel like a gentle caress on your skin when covering your body.
Conclusion
This guide should make your linen sheet shopping easier and less stressful. It’s definitely an investment, but if you take care your sheets, you can experience the comfort and luxury you’ve always wanted. Good luck with finding the sheets just for you.