Learn about the unique characteristics of the fibers used to make fine linens.

Cotton

Cotton is the most versatile of the natural fibers and can be woven into a broad range of products suitable to bed and bath linens. Cotton is a hollow cellulose fiber that comes from the seed of the cotton plant. The hollow nature of the fiber makes it very absorbent and able to wick moisture away from the body. Egyptian and Pima Cotton are primarily used in luxury linens because the lengths of these fibers are long enough to weave into a finer cloth. Although cotton does not have a natural luster it can be treated or woven to create a luster finish, it can take a dye well, or it can be bleached to a pure white. Cotton when properly cared for can be enjoyed for many years.

Linen

Linen is the oldest fiber used by man and because of its wide spread use is reflective of the general terminology, “bed and bath linens.” Made from the fibers that grow in the stems of the flax plant, linen has the best ability to wick moisture away from the body and dries quickly. Linen is ideal to use in warmer and wetter climates. Although linen creases and wrinkles more than cotton, it is a stronger fiber than cotton and inherently lasts longer if cared for properly. Bedding made from linen becomes softer after continued use.

Micro fiber

Micro fiber is the finest of all man made fibers. Made from beech wood cellulose, micro fiber is highly absorbent and easy to care for. It has a silky texture and a natural luster that does not wash out. Micro fiber wicks moisture away from the skin better than any other fiber and dries quickly. Sheeting made from micro fiber is lightweight as well as cool and comfortable.

Silk

Silk is the finest and strongest of the natural fibers and is made of threads from the cocoon of the silk worm. Silk has been synonymous with luxury. Silk has excellent drape and a luxurious hand as well as being suitably absorbent. Most silk is washable, although dyes or finishes can make it necessary for it to be dry-cleaned. Because it is made mostly of animal protein, fabrics made from this fiber tend to be warmer if not finely woven. Silk has poor resistance to sunlight and can be damaged by moths. Silk does not have a thread count measure but rather a weight system to regulate the industry. This system, known as momme weight is the pounds of silk fabric weighed in a standard of 100 yards by 45 inches wide. Sheets made of silk will usually be comprised of 18 or 19 momme silk or about 3 ounces per linear yard.

Wool

Wool is the warmest of the natural fibers and is made from the fleece of sheep. Wool fibers are fine, strong and elastic though relatively short. Wool has the ability to create warmth without excessive weight. Wool has good resistance to and recovery from wrinkling. It is also fairly resilient to water and once wet feels damp rather than soaked. Wool can be dyed easily but cannot be made pure white. Wool is prone to damage by insect pests and sunlight.