The 9 Best Linen Sheets of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Overall

Parachute Linen Sheet Set

View On Parachute

Our Ratings

• Quality
  5/5
• Texture
  4.9/5
• Durability
  4.9/5
• Value
  4.5/5
• Breathability
  5/5

Parachute's Linen Sheet Set is our top overall pick, thanks to its soft feel, breathability, and design-forward color options. We were impressed with the appearance and quality of the sheets in our lab testing. As is characteristic of most linen sheets, we found this set to be moisture-wicking and cool all night long.

Unlike other linen bedding, these sheets have that buttery-soft feel right out of the box. Although the fabric wrinkles easily, we'd argue that this adds to the set's laid-back appearance, and folding the sheets right when you remove them from the dryer can help minimize the crinkly look. We also appreciate that the sheets fit snugly over the bed without slipping or shifting, which we attribute to the stretch of the fabric.

When conducting our lab tests, we were surprised to find that the unwashed sheet was softer than after running it through the wash. However, we didn't observe any shrinkage after washing. Plus, coffee and makeup stains came right out in the wash, and an oil stain was only slightly perceptible, which suggests that these are a practical choice that won't be ruined by everyday stains. We wouldn't recommend them for folks who toss and turn, though, as the material did develop a small hole when we conducted our abrasion test to assess durability.

You can pick from 11 earthy, neutral color options that are sure to match a wide range of decor styles. We also like that you can forgo the top sheet if you want to save money (a queen set with a top sheet will set you back an extra $120) and prefer to sleep without one. 

How It Performed Long-Term

This sheet set held up exceptionally well when we used it at home for three months. We appreciated that the texture and color of the material didn't change—despite our concerns about durability during lab tests, we observed no signs of wear or fading during the long-term testing period. Linen tends to be a bit stiffer than other types of sheets, but we still found these to be consistently comfortable, and we even noted that they have a light and airy feel. The fitted sheet reliably stayed in place on a 14-inch-deep mattress, even when used by a restless sleeper. We did notice that after several days of use, the fitted sheet stretched out a bit, leading to some bunching (which we've observed with other linen sets, as well). It bounced back to its normal size after washing, though.

Price at time of publish: $209 for a queen set (without top sheet)

_{Material: European flax linen | Weave: Plain square | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash warm, tumble dry low}

Best Value

Bokser Home French Linen Sheet Set

View On Target View On Kohls.com View On Kohls.com

Our Ratings

• Quality
  5/5
• Texture
  4.8/5
• Durability
  4.4/5
• Value
  5/5
• Breathability
  4.8/5

While linen sheets don’t exactly come cheap, the Bokser Home 100 Percent French Linen Sheet Set offers a ton of bang for your buck. In lab testing this set, we raved about its soft texture that gets better over time, high-quality construction, and top-notch breathability.

Upon arrival, the sheets were a bit stiff and coarse (which tends to be standard for linen in general). However, by the third or fourth wash, we noticed a significant shift, as the sheets felt softer and more luxurious. After making the bed, we were impressed with how casually elegant these sheets looked, as they fit securely and snugly without any issues. Even when we tossed and turned in bed, the fitted sheet didn't come off the mattress. (They also have top/bottom labels to make putting them on easier.)

The French linen sheets have a medium weight and offer effective temperature-regulation properties, making these a great choice for year-round use.

How It Performed Long-Term

Over the course of six months of real-world testing, we found that this sheet set continued to soften. We noted increased sleep quality after using these sheets for a few weeks, as they kept us cool and comfortable. While the sheets provide enough airflow to prevent overheating, they still provide adequate warmth on colder nights. Throughout the testing period, we did notice some stretching, as well as slight color fading and pilling, on the areas our testers slept in the most. However, these were hardly noticeable and didn’t compromise the overall texture or quality of the material. Despite these minor flaws, we think that these sheets actually come at a fairly reasonable price, considering their luxurious construction, breathability, and overall quality.

Price at time of publish: $250 for a queen set
_{Material: French linen | Weave: Not listed | Thread Count: 110 | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low}

Best Durable

The Citizenry Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set

View On The-citizenry.com

Our Ratings

• Quality
  5/5
• Texture
  4/5
• Durability
  5/5
• Value
  3.5/5
• Breathability
  3/5

The Citizenry's Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set is made from flax fibers grown in France and loomed in a family-run mill in Portugal. As the name suggests, they're stone-washed, which means they're pre-washed with stones to ensure softness out of the box. We still found them to be a bit scratchy at first, but they grew softer with time.

We were immediately impressed with the overall construction quality of these sheets, and because of their considerable sturdiness, they were fairly wrinkle-resistant (which is rare for linen). The Citizenry's Stonewashed Linen Sheet Set is a bit thicker and heavier than other options we tested, which is a great sign of their durability. However, that means a longer break-in period and less breathability, compared to some of its competitors. All things considered, these sheets are still a great option for year-round use. These sheets come in 16 chic designs, from classic white to beach-inspired stripes.

Though the price is undoubtedly high, compared to other sets in our roundup, it's not actually that steep for high-quality European linen. The linen is made in an ethical working environment, as is required for Fair Trade certification.

How It Performed Long-Term

After six months of use, we found that the linen began to get softer and more comfortable—a significant reprieve from their initial scratchiness. Apart from the softer feel, we didn't notice any changes in texture or quality. They aren't the most breathable option on this list, so we would recommend them for cold sleepers, or as a warmer option for cooler seasons.

Price at time of publish: $299 for a queen set

_{Material: French flax linen | Weave: Plain square | GSM: 160 | Sizes: Full, queen, king, California king | Certifications: Fair Trade, OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash gentle, tumble dry}

Best Colors

Quince European Linen Sheet Set

View On Onequince.com

Our Ratings

• Quality
  3.8/5
• Texture
  4.5/5
• Durability
  3.9/5
• Value
  4.9/5
• Breathability
  4.3/5

If you’re looking for a lightweight linen sheet option with a plethora of elegant color options to match your decor, Quince might just be your best bet. Off the bat, we were immediately impressed with just the cozy texture of these sheets, as they felt much softer than other linens we’ve tested. While other linen sheets may take awhile to “break in,” these felt great upon arrival. The fabric is pre-washed for immediate softness and boasts exceptional durability to ensure that the sheets will last for years. While the sheets looked great on the bed, we did find that the fitted sheet is a bit too roomy for the mattress, and the excess fabric caused the sheet to move around a bit.

The brand's Linen Sheet Set is woven out of 100 percent European flax fibers. That makes it slightly more lightweight than others in its category while offering breathability, absorption, and temperature-regulating abilities to keep you comfortable and dry throughout the night.

We love that these sheets are available in 19 gorgeous color options, so you’ll be able to find one that works for you, no matter your design style. Manufacturers sustainably source the fabric and produce their sheet sets under ethical conditions. We love that Quince employs ethical practices while keeping prices affordable—their website is our secret source for luxe home items at major discounts.

How It Performed Long-Term

During our long-term tests, we found these sheets to be extremely lightweight and airy, making them the perfect option for those who tend to overheat at night. However, for those who prefer linen that’s a bit sturdier and stiffer, these may be too thin for your liking. They managed to get even softer over our six-month testing period, and we observed no color fading or construction issues.

Price at time of publish: $110 for a queen set

_{Material: European flax linen | Weave: Plain square | GSM: Not indicated | Sizes: Twin, Full, queen, king, Cal king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash cold/delicate, tumble dry low}

Best Splurge

Saatva Linen Sheet Set

View On Saatva

Our Ratings

• Quality
  4.9/5
• Texture
  5/5
• Durability
  4.7/5
• Value
  4.3/5
• Breathability
  4.5/5

If you’re willing to shell out a bit more money on luxury sheets that look and feel exceptionally high-quality, then look no further than the Saatva Linen Sheet Set. This sheet set earned impressive scores during our lab tests, and we think its construction makes the steep price tag well worth it. Upon arrival, we were impressed with the sturdiness of these sheets, as they felt well made without being overly heavy. While the sheets had a rougher texture out of the box, they immediately felt softer after the first wash, and after consistent use, they only got better.

These sheets are a great pick for those who overheat in their sleep, as they are incredibly breathable and temperature-regulating, with the ability to keep even the warmest sleepers cool and comfortable all night long. When placed on the bed, the sheets had a refined look, and despite the fitted sheet being a bit roomy to accommodate for larger mattresses, we found it easy to tuck in any extra material.

How It Performed Long-Term

We sent the Saatva Linen Sheet Set home with a hot sleeper, and we confirmed that they have a lovely lightweight construction that can help keep night sweats at bay. The sheets also proved to be very durable, as they held up incredibly well over six months, with no signs of wear, shrinkage, or color fading. Our tester’s puppy even dug around in them, and the sheets didn't tear or stain, which impressed us. They also continued to soften over time, too.

Price at time of publish: $375 for a queen set

_{Material: Belgian linen | Weave: None listed | Thread Count: None listed | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low}

Softest

Southern Living Heirloom Linen & Cotton Sheet Set

View On Dillards.com

Our Ratings

• Quality
  4.9/5
• Texture
  4.8/5
• Durability
  4.8/5
• Value
  5/5
• Breathability
  4.5/5

While linen sheets may be known for having a rougher, more textured feel than traditional cotton sheets, there are still options that feel exceptionally soft and smooth without having to break them in. Made with a blend of linen and long-staple cotton, the Southern Living Heirloom Linen & Cotton Sheet Set at Dillard's offers the best of both worlds. (Southern Living is owned by The Spruce’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith.)

These sheets earned high marks during our testing, and for good reason. While the sheets may not be made from pure linen, we were immediately impressed with their overall construction, as they felt wonderfully soft and pleasantly lightweight. The cotton blend allows for a texture that’s less rough and scratchy than pure linen, which is a plus for those who prefer a balance between texture and smoothness.

If you’re looking for a soft set of sheets made with linen, these are definitely a worthy pick. While we love these sheets overall, note that they only come in queen and king sizes.

How It Performed Long-Term

After six months of use, these sheets got even better in time—we just loved how silky soft they felt. They also proved very durable, as they held up wonderfully with no signs of wear or color fading during our long-term testing. We weren't blown away by the breathability of these sheets in lab testing, so we sent them home with a hot sleeper, who noted that they feel light and airy in spring, fall, and winter. But we wouldn't recommend them as cooling sheets for hot sleepers.

Price at time of publish: $90 for a queen set

_{Material: Linen and cotton | Weave: Not listed | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Queen, king | Certifications: None listed | Care: Machine washable}

Best Lightweight

Brooklinen Linen Core Sheet Set

View On Brooklinen

Our Ratings

• Quality
  5/5
• Texture
  4.4/5
• Durability
  4.7/5
• Value
  4/5
• Breathability
  4.5/5

The Brooklinen Linen Core Sheet Set boasts a wonderfully airy and breathable construction without sacrificing durability and high-quality craftsmanship, making it a great pick for those who prefer lightweight bedding.

Upon arrival, they felt somewhat rough to the touch, but after multiple rounds of washing, they became noticeably softer and more comfortable. We were initially impressed with just how light the sheets felt, as the weave almost felt sheer. At night, these sheets offered an excellent balance between cozy and cooling. The looser weave allowed for more airflow, which prevented overheating. Even on chillier nights, they still provided adequate warmth without becoming too hot.

And despite the sheets’ breezy construction, they proved to be very durable. We also loved just how clean they looked on the bed, as the all-around elastic provided a very secure fit over the mattress.

How It Performed Long-Term

Over three months of testing, we noted significant softening of this sheet set's linen material, and we observed no quality issues. They feel breathable and durable, and we think they're a great choice for all-season use. We tested them in a home with a playful cat and restless sleeper—the Brooklinen Linen Core Sheet Set could handle everything from sheet pulling to cat claws (an impressive feat!). We long-term tested the white version of these sheets, and they continued to look great with long-term use. We were also able to get stains out of the fitted sheet using a stain remover.

Price at time of publish: $299 for a queen set

_{Material: European flax linen | Weave: Not listed | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low}

Best Moisture-Wicking

West Elm European Flax Linen Sheet Set and Pillowcases

View On West Elm

Our Ratings

• Quality
  4.5/5
• Texture
  4.5/5
• Durability
  4.9/5
• Value
  4/5
• Breathability
  5/5

Sheets with temperature-regulating properties can be especially helpful for those with night sweats, and the West Elm European Flax Linen Sheet Set is both breathable and moisture-wicking, with a high-quality construction. These exceptionally soft sheets felt sturdy and durable upon arrival, and after a few washes, they became even more comfortable. During our lab test, we did notice that these sheets did wrinkle more than some of the other options we tested, but you can steam or iron them for a cleaner, crisper look.

Despite its heavier weight, we were pleasantly surprised by the sheets’ temperature-regulating properties. Made in a Fair Trade facility from heirloom-quality flax, the fabric is breathable and absorbent. It does an amazing job of allowing air to pass through, helping to regulate your body temperature while you doze. We love that this set comes in over 20 different hues, and you can even choose from a few striped options. Made-to-order colors may take longer to ship, but we think it’s worth it if you’re looking to curate a design-forward bedscape.

Price at time of publish: $269 for a queen set

_{Material: European flax linen | Weave: Plain square | Thread Count: Not listed | Sizes: Full, queen, king, California king | Certifications: Fair Trade, OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low}