Where to buy the best flax linen sheets, regardless of your budget

Jessie StoelwinderThe West Australian
Camera IconBed Threads linen sheets.

Forget 1000 thread-count cotton sheets — these days, it’s all about linen.

The must-have bedding has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years and shows no signs of slowing down, with everywhere from Target to Ikea and even Aldi piggybacking off the trend.

It’s easy to see why.

The crumpled, textural nature of linen makes beds look simultaneously undone and chic — acting as an invitation to dive between the sheets and never emerge.

But is all linen created equal? Is it worth the spend? We hunt down the best buys, from high to low.

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Camera IconIkea linen sheets.

What is linen?

Linen is a textile made from the fibres of the flax plant. It is one of the world’s oldest fabrics and is known for its lasting quality, with pieces softening over time for even more comfort and cosiness.

When choosing linen sheets, it is important to look for 100 per cent flax linen, as some companies will advertise their product as linen when it is actually a cotton blend.

Unlike cotton, linen does not have a thread count and can seem scratchy as first. But be patient, as it gets much better with age and washing.

According to Bed Threads, one of Australia’s leading linen purveyors, the fabric insulates in the winter and cools in the summer so can be used all year round.

It is also hypoallergenic, sustainable, breathable and low maintenance. Oh, and it’s two-three times stronger than cotton.

Where to buy

There are no prizes for skimping on linen — it is known as a luxury product because of the time it takes to weave the fabric and the price reflects this.

However, the lasting power and durability makes linen sheets well worth the spend.

The more expensive brands allow customers to mix and match colours between their quilt cover and sheets, and a popular trend is combining different hues for an expertly-styled bed.

But for those on a cheaper budget, both Ikea and Target are currently offering 100 per cent linen products that rival the high-end alternatives.

Ikea

The Puderviva range comes in a limited range of colours, but is an affordable entry level choice. Quilt cover sets start at $79, and they also have the option to purchase flat and fitted sheets individually.

Camera IconIkea linen sheets.

Target

You would never guess Target’s Lilah quilt set comes from the department store, such is the feel of the fabric. Also available in limited colours, a queen bundle will set you back just $129.

Camera IconTarget linen sheets.

Adairs

As the country’s leading bedding retailer, it’s no surprise Adairs offers a fair few linen products and they are all equally beautiful. A significant step up in price, a single vintage washed linen quilt cover is $249.99 and pillowcases are extra.

Camera IconAdairs linen sheets.

Bed Threads

Social media’s favourite linen brand is known for its mix and match range — you’d almost seem crazy to buy a standard white set from here. Sheet sets start at $250, with plenty of options for bundling to build your perfect bed-scape.

Camera IconBed Threads linen sheets.

I Love Linen

Another premium brand with a suite of colours, I Love Linen gives even more options to locate your ideal hue. A single quilt cover starts at $220 — but regular discounts can sweeten the deal.

Camera IconI Love Linen linen sheets.

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