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13 best linen bedding sets that are low maintenance and chic

These sheets offer relaxed luxury in the bedroom

Ali Howard
Thursday 23 May 2024 16:02 BST
We put a wide range of linen bedding sets and bundles to the test, from the high-end to the budget-friendly, looking for quality, durability, and softness
We put a wide range of linen bedding sets and bundles to the test, from the high-end to the budget-friendly, looking for quality, durability, and softness (The Independent)
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Linen bedding is more popular than ever but this isn’t just about following trends – it is a conscious choice that blends comfort with eco-friendliness. Derived from the long fibres of the flax plant, one of the oldest, continuously cultivated plants in the world, linen requires minimal water and hardly any pesticides to produce, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.

What’s really appealing about the best linen bedding is its ability to adapt to your body temperature. It keeps you cool during sweltering summer nights and warm when winter rolls around, thanks to the material’s natural thermoregulating properties. Plus, it’s excellent at wicking away moisture, ensuring you don’t wake up feeling sticky on warmer nights – a no-brainer for menopausal women or particularly hot sleepers.

Of course, aesthetics play a huge part in linen bedding’s perennial popularity. The fabric brings a relaxed, effortless feel to any sleep space, thanks to its soft, slubby texture and gently crumpled appearance, which only gets better with age.

Investing in linen bedding is a lifestyle choice – once you’ve made the switch from cotton, you won’t want to go back. It supports sustainable living and offers unparalleled durability, which means you won’t be shopping for replacements anytime soon. Each wash makes the linen softer, enhancing your sleep experience over time. Better still, you can give your ironing board a wide berth – this is a fabric that looks and feels at its best in its naturally crumpled state. Sign us up.

Keep reading for our pick of the best linen bedding sets to elevate your slumber.

How we tested the best linen bedding sets

A selection of the dreamy linen bedding sets we tested
A selection of the dreamy linen bedding sets we tested (The Independent/Ali Howard)

We put a wide range of linen bedding sets and bundles to the test, from the high-end to the budget-friendly, looking for quality, durability and softness. We compared fastenings and finishes and tested the sets to see how well they stood up to a number of washing cycles, tumble drying and line drying (where appropriate), looking to make sure that colours didn’t fade, minimal shrinkage, and that the fabrics softened over time.

The best linen bedding sets for 2024 are:

  • Best linen bedding set overall – Chalk Pink Linen Co. natural gingham linen bedding bundle: £300, Chalkpinklinencompany.co.uk
  • Best budget linen bedding set – Homescapes linen duvet cover set: £59.99, Amazon.co.uk
  • Best linen bedding set for gifting – Garden Trading Pembridge linen bedding: £180, Gardentrading.co.uk
  • Best luxury bedding set – Piglet in bed gingham linen bundle: £209, Johnlewis.com
  • Best linen bedding set to mix and match – Bed Threads 100 per cent French flax linen bedding set: £220, Bedthreads.com

Chalk Pink Linen Co. natural gingham linen bedding bundle

Pink-chalk-bedding-indybest
  • Best: Linen bedding set overall
  • Sizes: Double, king, super king
  • Set includes: Duvet cover, fitted sheet, pair of pillowcases
  • Machine washable: Up to 40C
  • Why we love it
    • Top quality
    • Pre-washed with a homely scent
    • Beautifully packaged
    • £10 saving on a bundle

The gingham trend finds its natural home in linen bedding, and Chalk Pink’s offering nails the country-core aesthetic beautifully with its subtle beige-on-white colourway. When you first catch the scent of this pre-washed linen bundle, you’re instantly transported into an elegant boutique hotel or a luxurious guest room in the countryside. The bedding arrives beautifully packaged and (unlike most duvet cover and pillowcase sets) even comes complete with a white fitted linen sheet, giving you a complete set to dive into. The bedding can also be bought separately.

On the practical side, the bedding washes well and only gets softer over time – although, we were sad to say goodbye to its original aroma.

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Homescapes khaki green linen duvet cover set

Homescapes-linen-set-indybest
  • Best: Budget linen bedding set
  • Sizes: Single, double, king, super king
  • Set includes: Duvet cover, pair of pillowcases (one pillowcase for single)
  • Machine washable: Up to 40C
  • Why we love it
    • Choice of matching flat or fitted sheets available
  • Take note
    • Fabric comprises 60 per cent linen, 40 per cent cotton

While this bedding is much more budget-friendly than most of the other sets within our review, there’s a reason for that – this “linen” duvet cover set is actually a linen/cotton blend. If you don’t have the spare cash, or the inclination, to splurge on a pure linen bedding set, this Homescapes duvet cover and pillowcases set will still prove a chic update to any sleep space.

Giving your bedroom that effortlessly stylish look, the bedding boasts a modern Scandi vibe, with the khaki green being neutral but deeply hued. While this set mirrors the easy-care attributes of pure linen, maintaining that sought-after crumpled look without needing an iron, it doesn’t quite provide the same luxurious feel. However, this linen-cotton hybrid is still a solid option, especially for those looking to refresh their space with a stylish yet practical choice. It’s mostly linen, after all, keeping most of the benefits while easing the strain on your wallet.

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Dunelm linen duvet cover set

Dunelm-linen-bedding-sets-indybest
  • Best: Linen bedding set for value
  • Sizes: Single, double, king, super king
  • Set includes: Duvet cover, pair of pillowcases (one pillowcase for single)
  • Machine washable: Up to 40C
  • Why we love it
    • Fuss-free design
    • Washes well
  • Take note
    • Terracotta colour not as vibrant as some

Dunelm’s budget-friendly linen bedding set proves that style and quality don’t always have to come at a premium. It’s a genuine contender, standing shoulder to shoulder with some of the more opulent sets we’ve tested, yet at half the price. We also love the terracotta hue of the duvet cover and pillowcases, which introduced a warm, earthy vibe to our bedroom setup. Unlike other more intensely pigmented options, this one opts for subtlety – a lived-in look with gentle pink undertones that evoke a sense of calm and ease.

This set is contemporary and fuss-free, ticking all the boxes for those who desire a minimalist aesthetic without extravagance. After several washes, the colours remain true, and the linen’s characteristic slubby texture becomes even more pronounced after a tumble dry – just remember to keep the heat on a low setting to maintain the bedding in pristine condition. The button-fastened duvet cover and standard pillowcases are well-made with a fine finish, giving you a touch of luxury and comfort, without breaking the bank.

  1.  £80 from Dunelm.com
Prices may vary
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Rise & Fall relaxed and refined linen bedding

Rise-and-fall-bedding-set-indybest
  • Best: Sustainable linen bedding
  • Sizes: Double, king, super king
  • Set includes: N/A (items sold separately)
  • Machine washable: Up to 40C
  • Why we love it
    • Eco-friendly
    • Packaged in matching drawstring bag
  • Take note
    • Sizing can come up slightly large to allow for some shrinkage

A classic nautical stripe never goes out of style, and Rise & Fall’s elegant bedding is no exception. This collection not only offers visual appeal but also brings a dose of practical luxury, as each piece is sold separately and comes in a matching drawstring bag. 

Crafted from 100 per cent European flax, and bedding retained its plush texture when washed – this bedding set starts incredibly soft and only gets softer with time. The duvet cover and pillowcases offer an immediate upgrade in comfort, making it almost impossible to leave your bed.

Rise & Fall’s ethos is responsible luxury. As a certified B Corp, the brand meets rigorous standards of social and environmental performance. The use of renewable energy in its production processes enables you to rest even more easily, knowing your bedding choice is kinder to the planet.

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Garden Trading Pembridge linen bedding

Garden-trading-linen-bedding-indybest
  • Best: Linen bedding for gifting
  • Sizes: Double, king, super king
  • Set includes: N/A (items sold separately)
  • Machine washable: Up to 30C
  • Why we love it
    • Top quality craftsmanship
    • Beautifully packaged
    • Calming colourway
  • Take note
    • Buttons might be fiddly for some

Fashioned from 100 per cent European linen, spun by artisans in India, this bedding set is the epitome of quality. It’s not just about the fine materials, though – the real magic lies in the balance of comfort it provides. Whether it’s the depth of winter or the height of summer, the luxurious fabric ensures you enjoy a restful slumber year-round.

We love the colour, too — a soft green that evokes the beauty of English country gardens. It’s a hue that brings a touch of nature’s calm to any bedroom. Further adding to its charm, the bedding arrives in matching linen bags, making it an ideal gift option.

The attention to detail in this set is outstanding, from the eco-friendly coconut button fastenings to the impeccable finish. Not only is it highly durable, but it also maintains its beauty wash after wash. One of the joys of this linen is seeing it relax into a naturally crumpled state, looking effortlessly chic without ever needing to touch an iron.

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Scooms linen bedding

Scooms-bedding-indybest
  • Best: Non-iron linen bedding
  • Sizes: Single, double, king, super king
  • Set includes: N/A (items sold separately)
  • Machine washable: Up to 40C
  • Why we love it
    • Excellent quality
    • Super soft
    • Features mother-of-pearl buttons
  • Take note
    • Only three colours available

Scooms delivers an effortlessly chic bedding option in a soft, cloud-like grey that makes it feel as though you’re sleeping on air. Each piece, from the duvet cover to the standard pillowcases and fitted sheet, is sold separately, allowing you the freedom to create a personalised set. Opt for a seamless look in matching shades, or introduce a pop of contrast with pure white or soft pink – perfect for those who like to layer.

The fabric’s real charm is its beautifully crumpled texture, which comes into its own post-wash, requiring no ironing to maintain its casual look. Ideal for transitional weather but also suitable for year-round use, it strikes a perfect balance between being lightweight in appearance and offering enveloping warmth once you dive in. This one boasts a simple design, but its large mother-of-pearl buttons add a discreet yet enchanting touch of glamour.

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Piglet in Bed gingham linen bundle

Piglet-in-bed-set-indybest
  • Best: Luxury linen bedding set
  • Sizes: Single, double, king, super king, emperor
  • Set includes: Duvet cover, choice of flat or fitted sheet, pair of pillowcases (one for single)
  • Machine washable: Up to 40C
  • Why we love it
    • On-trend gingham pattern
    • Pre-stonewashed for softness
    • Beautifully packaged
    • Available in emperor size

Piglet makes a strong case for bundle-buying, with its mix-and-match collection. The gingham linen in elderberry – a subtle greyish purple – is crafted from 100 per cent natural French flax. The fabric is not just soft but decadently so, providing a level of tactile pleasure that’s rare in everyday bedding. The quality of this linen extends beyond its luxurious feel – it is pre-stonewashed to ensure durability, maintaining its shape, colour, and silken texture wash after wash. Elegantly finished with wooden buttons, it exudes rustic charm, and if you’re smitten with this homely pattern, the brand offers matching sleepwear – how’s that for cosy coordination?

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Ada & Ina linen duvet cover set

Linen-fabrics-set-indybest
  • Best: Romantic linen bedding set
  • Sizes: Double, king, super king
  • Set includes: Duvet cover, pair of pillowcases
  • Machine washable: Up to 40C
  • Why we love it
    • Top quality craftsmanship
    • Handmade in the UK
    • Sustainably made

This is a brand that specialises in luxury linen window treatments as much as it does linen bedding. What makes it stand out is its commitment to all-natural, quality materials. Ada & Ina make linens while keeping a close eye on the environment, using eco-friendly methods that cut down on water and energy use. Plus, everything’s made right here in the UK, so you know you’re getting top-notch craftsmanship.

In a dusty rose colourway, the double duvet cover set proves a wholly romantic addition to the bedroom, giving us vintage, faded glamour vibes. Crafted from 100 per cent French flax linen, it is soft and supple with a slubby feel that gives you a beautiful drape, especially once you’ve swapped out your winter duvet for a slimmer summer one. Here, the devil’s in the detail, with intricately fine stitching, and a perfect finish. This set is ideal for those who love a bit of everyday luxury that’s as ethical as it is comfortable.

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Bed Threads 100 per cent French flax linen bedding set

UK-bed-threads-linen-set-indybest
  • Best: Linen bedding set to mix and match
  • Sizes: Single, double, king, super king
  • Set includes: Duvet cover, fitted sheet, pair of pillowcases
  • Machine washable: Up to 30C
  • Why we love it
    • Vibrant colour
    • Quality material and finish
  • Take note
    • This one gets softer after washing

We’ve long been fans of this Australian brand, not least for its large, square, scalloped European-style pillowcases. Where it really stands out among other linen manufacturers is its choice of colours. Actively encouraging us to mix and match our bedding pieces, there’s a host of tonal, nature-inspired shades on offer that are designed to complement each other.

We opted for the rust colourway – a fiery hue that brings a vibrant energy to the bedroom. Deeply pigmented, it infuses warmth and vitality. Crafted from 100 per cent French flax, the high-quality bedding offers a sumptuous feel. While it’s not the softest linen bedding straight out of the packaging, it only gets more malleable and beautifully supple after the first wash. This one’s sold as a full set, including a matching fitted sheet, hence the higher price.

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Secret Linen Store moss green 100 per cent linen bedding

Secret-linen-bedding-set-indybest
  • Best: Nature-inspired linen bedding
  • Sizes: Double, king, super king
  • Set includes: N/A (items sold separately)
  • Machine washable: Up to 40C
  • Why we love it
    • Extra soft and slubby
    • Boasts a fine finish
    • Matching curtains available
  • Take note
    • No single size available

This is another brand whose raison d’être is top-quality pure linen. In the moss colourway, the bedding offers a burst of natural colour and is a must for anyone with a sleep space full of houseplants: the ultimate green dream for a biophiliac.

Secret Linen Store’s bedding offering always scores high on softness, and that’s largely thanks to its tumbling process, which gives the linen its slubby, buttery feel. The pieces are sold separately, giving you the flexibility to mix and match colours, but we loved our striking monochrome set in this vibrant, earthy green. The bedding washes beautifully, keeping its deep pigment after several 40C spins. It looks the business too – all textured and crumpled after a line dry, too, proving that linen wrinkles and creases are all part of the charm. You can complete the look with matching curtain panels, too.

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Soak & Sleep French linen bedding

Soak-sleep-linen-sets-indybest
  • Best: Linen bedding for versatility
  • Sizes: Double, king, super king
  • Set includes: N/A (items sold separately)
  • Machine washable: Up to 40C
  • Why we love it
    • Simple, contemporary design
    • Slubby feel
    • Versatile options for building up your bedding set

Soak & Sleep’s linen bedding offering is perennially popular, and it’s easy to see why. This is a brand that offers a no-frills approach, from its simple packaging to its fuss-free product design. The brand strips back to essentials, focusing on what really matters – the quality of the product.

The pure Normandy flax linen is beautifully soft and supple, and it boasts top-quality craftsmanship. The design details are thoughtful, too – instead of fiddly buttons, Soak & Sleep opts for elegant linen tie closures that add a practical touch of rustic charm.

The fact the pieces are sold separately enables you not only to mix and match your colours – there are 10 contemporary shades to choose from – but you can build up your linen bedding set over time, which is handy if you’re on a budget but don’t want to miss out on the luxury.

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Bedfolk linen bedding bundle

Bedford .jpg
  • Best: Linen bedding bundle
  • Sizes: Single, double, king, superking
  • Set: Includes duvet cover, fitted sheet, pair of pillowcases
  • Machine wash: 40C
  • Why we love it
    • Bundle includes everything you need

If you’re looking to kit out your whole bed with pure linen, including a sheet, then a bundle is the way forward. Not only can it save some pennies, but it offers an all-in, fuss-free purchase. Bedfolk’s linen bundle comes in a small range of muted earthy tones, as well as a pure snowy white – the brand’s “back to nature” colourways reflecting the organic nature of the material itself. Our set, in ink, proved super soft. It has a charming pre-loved look and feel, while the colour is an attractive, faded, utilitarian blue.

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The Linen Works Picardie linen bedding

The Linen Works.jpg
  • Best: For a neutral shade range
  • Sizes: Single, double, king, superking
  • Set: Sold separately
  • Machine wash: 40C
  • Why we love it
    • Excellent presentation
    • Calming neutral shade

If, like us, you’re a sucker for packaging, The Linen Works won’t disappoint. Scoring top marks for presentation, this luxury bedding arrived beautifully boxed with ribbon and bows to match – a sure indication there’s something very special inside. The bedding is made from the finest Belgian flax weave, which proved lovely and lightweight.

In ecru, linen’s natural pre-dyed hue, these soft sheets are a calming neutral shade. They’re beautifully crafted, high-quality, and will offer any bedroom chic and timeless style. Pillowcases start at £30 and duvet covers start from £170 (Thelinenworks.co.uk).

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The verdict: Linen bedding sets

We loved Chalk Pink Linen Co.’s natural gingham linen bedding bundle for its on-trend cottage-core pattern, its top-quality craftsmanship, the way it is beautifully packaged, and, of course, that homely, pre-washed scent. We were also impressed with Secret Linen Store’s extra-soft, nature-inspired linen bedding in the vibrant Moss colourway, while Dunelm’s linen duvet cover set in terracotta provides a great value option, without compromising on quality.

For more bedroom inspiration, we’ve rounded up the best double beds to give your boudoir a boost and the best electric blankets to keep you warm through the winter months

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