How to Choose Bed Linen: 6 Useful Tips

Tip #1: Choose the Right Size

Many people know that there are several sizes of bed linens: single, full (150x210 – 160x220), double (175x210 – 200x220), European or so-called "kingsize" (200x220 – 220x240). The sizes of pillowcases may also vary – 50x70 or 70x70. Some sets include pillowcases in both sizes, but you should pay attention to this detail to avoid problems with fit later.

Tip #2: Pay Attention to Quality

Bed linens should allow air to circulate and "breathe," and absorb sweat. It's better to choose bedding made from natural fabrics like silk, linen or cotton. You should also consider how durable the material is – bed linens require frequent washing. It's preferable if the fabric is dense, otherwise it will tear after just a few washes. You can assess the fabric density visually – the looseness of fibers is obvious at a glance.

Tip #3: Select the Fabric Type

Cotton is currently the most popular material for bed linens. Cotton fabrics, depending on the weave technology, can vary: muslin, satin, batiste. Muslin is a good material for home textiles because it's durable and wear-resistant, with relatively low cost. Batiste bedding is usually reserved for "special occasions," as it is not intended for daily use, since it thins out after about 20 washes. Satin is a strong, beautiful fabric with a subtle sheen.

Linen and silk are also very popular for making bed linens. Linen is a material that will keep you warm in winter but won't make you too hot in summer. However, it requires careful maintenance, as it wrinkles easily and is hard to iron. Silk bedding looks luxurious only if made from high-quality silk.

Tip #4: Inspect the Seams

Examine the bedding – duvet cover or pillowcase – from the inside. High-quality bedding should be stitched with a special double seam, and the edges should be tucked inside. Unfinished edges are a sign of poor quality. The threads used for stitching should be strong and matched to the color of the fabric. The bedding should be made from one continuous piece without seams in the middle. If there is embroidery or trim on the set, it should also be of good quality and not irritate the skin.

Tip #5: Choose the Right Color and Pattern

Today, bed linens come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, making it hard to choose just one. When selecting the color palette for a set, consider the dominant colors in the bedroom – ideally, the bed linen should harmonize with the curtain and wallpaper colors.

For full rest, calming pastel tones like pink, blue, yellow, green, and white are ideal. Red, orange, and black colors evoke passion and romance. A subtle pattern on the bedding promotes calm and peaceful sleep, whereas bold patterns stimulate energy. For recovery after a hard day’s work, geometric motifs are recommended. Black-and-white combinations should not be used daily – they appear aggressive and can cause fatigue.

Tip #6: Evaluate the Fabric Colorfastness

Pay attention to how vivid the pattern is. Overly saturated colors can fade in just a couple of washes. Smell the bedding – the fabric should smell like new textile, and a strong dye odor indicates poor quality, which may cause the bedding to fade quickly. Compare the intensity of the color on the front and back sides – they should be nearly identical. Additionally, the maximum wash temperature listed on the label is also an indicator of dye quality. If the bedding can withstand 60 degrees Celsius, then the dye is stable.