Linen has become a staple summer wardrobe product with its lightness and breathability, but how does it stack up when it comes to bed sheets?

Well let’s start with defining what we mean by ‘Tencel’ and ‘Linen’. We’re referring to 100% Tencel and 100% Linen products as many can be blended with other fabrics to save costs but that will dramatically alter the functionality and feel of the sheets.

Speaking of feel, let’s start with the differences in feel between the two fabrics.

One of the most important qualities of a bed sheet is the feel. It can really make or break a set of bed sheets. We spend so much time in our bed sheets and the quality of our sleep can be affected so much by things related to feel such as;  roughness, itchiness, coarseness and weight.

The main difference in feel between Tencel and Linen is what you feel straight out of the box. Tencel has an uber soft feel from the get go, whereas Linen starts with a rougher feel but will soften a lot over time when repeatedly washed and slept on. Linen feels more lightweight than Tencel due to the nature of Linens granular fabric which can be woven with a lesser thread count (Lower thread count = lighter fabric but more roughness). Both are natural fibres, which means they are both ideal for hot sleepers and acne prone people due to breathability and the anti-bacterial properties of both fabrics.

Do they look different?

Very! Tencel starts with a silky sheen that will wash away into a softer look over time with some light wrinkling after washing. Linen has a very Matte look and will wrinkle up heavily after that first wash due to the lack of elasticity in the flax fibres.

What about lifespan and durability?

Both sheets are very durable. thrae’s Tencel sheets are certified 100% authentic by Lenzing of Austria meaning you’re getting the very best quality Tencel sheets available. Make sure you look for evidence of the Tencel trademark when you’re purchasing these sheets so you can be sure you’re getting the authentic product. Tencel is a trademark fibre meaning the authentic product is only made by the one company (Lenzing) who have dedicated decades of innovation and technology to make sure you get the most durable, highest quality sheets available.

Linen is also very durable. It has an added advantage of softening up after every wash so your sheets will actually improve in feel the more you wash them, although this can take some time. It also adds to the amount of time you have to spend laundering your sheets. Tencel, with its anti-bacterial properties, doesn’t need to be washed as much and therefore adds to the durability and wear and saves you precious time not having to constantly wash your sheets (unless you want to of course!)

Let’s not forget about that precious commodity called Mother Earth

Creating a product that has minimal environmental impact is at the forefront of why we chose to produce our bed sheets using Tencel. Both Tencel and Linen have very low environmental impact. Tencel being created from Eucalyptus wood pulp and Linen from the Flax plant. Both use a minimal amount of water and no insecticides or pesticides compared to cotton and Tencel uses a recyclable, organic compound to break down cellulose fibre compared to Bamboo which uses a non-recyclable, toxic chemical compound to break down it’s cellulose fibre.

Both Tencel and Linen are biodegradable, meaning the finished used product can return back to the earth given the right conditions.

And finally, one of the most important factors – COST!

Because 100% Tencel fabrics are produced by only the one company, the price is relatively controlled. You can pick up a quality set of Tencel bed sheets from anywhere between $150-$250 Aus dollars. Linen bed sheets can vary dramatically due to the different manufacturers, different locations of production and varying quality or the fabric and quality of the weaving/stitching. They can vary from anywhere between $150-$500 in some cases.

Our Verdict

We obviously love Tencel! The main difference between Tencel and Linen is the feel out of the box, the look and the price. Both are great options for warmer climates and hot sleepers with Tencel being a better option for those with sensitive skin due to the softer and less rough feel.

Beware though of both fabrics is you prefer firmer, heavier, thicker or warmer sheets as neither will produce this feel or function and you’d be better with a fabric like cotton or flannel instead.