Luxurious linens

Crisp and luxurious, hotel sheets have a reputation for being particularly top quality, yet anyone can have the same opulent feel at home with a bit of care about sheet selection.

Cotton, linen, polyester, silk, bamboo, and in winter, flannel, microfibre and even more options are available. What is important to know when choosing sheets is that their properties and performance are determined by material and weave. Certain types are breathable and cool, while others are heavy and insulating, so choice also comes down to needs and preferences.

Cotton is the most common fabric used for sheets, with excellent breathability and moisture-wicking abilities. Typically, cotton sheets are durable, easy to maintain, and are available in a range of types defined by varying qualities. Egyptian cotton is often considered the highest-end cotton, handpicked in Egypt, and with extra-long fibres for exceptional softness and breathability.

Linen is another luxury sheet fabric, derived from the flax plant, which provides long fibres, making it highly durable, with excellent breathability and moisture-wicking abilities. This makes them effective for temperature regulation. Slightly rough to the touch when new, they soften with washing, and will need ironing for a smooth, crisp look. Bamboo sheets are usually made from rayon, a material derived from bamboo pulp via a chemical process. Soft, with excellent breathability, they’re durable and a good choice for those who want to sleep cool.

Silk is definitely a luxurious fabric, made from the cocoons of silkworms. Hypoallergenic, its smooth feel is great for sleepers who enjoy super soft sheets, and those with sensitive skin.

Silk has excellent temperature regulation and moisture-wicking capabilities, although the material does need special care when washing and drying, and they don’t last as long as sheets made from other materials.

Tencel sheets are the last on my luxury list. Tencel is derived from eucalyptus trees, and the material is soft, smooth, and durable, resistant to dust and bacteria, and typically sleeps cool thanks to its excellent moisture-wicking properties.