Myths and Facts About Bed Linen: What’s Really True?

July 28, 2025

There are several persistent myths surrounding bed linen. We want to debunk seven of them and set the record straight.

Myth 1: Bed linen has no effect on sleep


Fact: On the contrary, bed linen plays a crucial role in sleep quality. When creating a pleasant sleep environment, the material, texture, and temperature regulation are essential factors.


Cotton is particularly breathable and absorbs moisture very well, making it ideal for maintaining a balanced sleeping climate. Silk, on the other hand, feels luxurious against the skin and can help reduce skin irritation. Flannel bed linen provides cozy warmth on cold nights, while satin, fil-à-fil, and percale have a pleasantly cooling effect in summer.


The feel of the fabric also impacts your well-being. Smooth fabrics convey lightness, while textured materials provide a sense of warmth and security. Even the color of your bed linen affects sleep quality. Soft, muted tones promote relaxation, whereas vibrant colors stimulate the nervous system.


High-quality bed linen is therefore far more than a visual detail in the bedroom—it is key to restful sleep.



Myth 2: Thread count is the most important quality feature


Fact: Thread count is often seen as the most important indicator of quality, but on its own, it’s neither decisive for luxury nor durability. What truly matters is the quality of the materials used. High-grade long-staple cotton provides a smooth and durable surface, while low-quality fabrics can feel rough despite a high thread count.


Truly luxurious bed linen is made from natural materials like cotton or linen, which not only feel pleasant on the skin but are also breathable, contributing to a balanced sleeping environment. A high thread count may lead to a dense weave, but if the threads are of poor quality, the fabric will wear out quickly.


So if you're looking to invest in long-term sleep comfort, pay close attention to material quality—real comfort and luxury are felt on the skin.



Myth 3: Nightly skin renewal – myth or reality?


Fact: Humans lose up to 1.5 grams of dead skin each night. It might not sound like much, but it adds up over time. These dead skin cells accumulate in pillows, duvets, and mattresses—providing an ideal food source for dust mites. In the warm and humid environment of the bed, these tiny arachnids multiply rapidly, leaving behind allergy-triggering waste.


People with dust mite allergies often suffer from a constantly stuffy nose, itching, or irritated eyes. That's why it's important to wash bed linen and bedding contents regularly. Dust mites and their residues are killed at 60°C. Regularly airing out your mattress is also an important step.


A fresh and hygienic bed not only improves sleep quality but also contributes to a healthier indoor climate—more than enough reason to pay attention to proper care.



Myth 4: Misleading softness – the myth of fabric softener magic


Fact: Some people believe fabric softener makes bed linen softer and more fragrant. In reality, it can do more harm than good. Fabric softener coats the fibers with a film, which causes natural materials like cotton or linen to lose their breathability. This impairs the function of the bed linen, making it lose freshness, structure, and—ironically—real softness.


Our luxurious bed linen is made from carefully selected yarns that don’t require chemical additives. Too much fabric softener can "suffocate" these fine fibers. The fabric becomes dull, fibers break more easily, and lifespan is reduced. Natural materials, which are meant to shine with their quality and purity—not artificial fragrance—are especially sensitive.


Residues from fabric softener can also cause skin irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin or allergies. If you prefer fluffy bedding, it's better to use a dryer on a gentle cycle or natural alternatives like vinegar. Vinegar softens fibers, neutralizes odors, and prevents lime build-up in the machine.


Especially for high-quality fabrics, fabric softener is not ideal. If you value longevity and a naturally soft feel, opt for gentle care methods.



Myth 5: Bed linen must always be ironed


Fact: Many believe that ironing bed linen after washing is necessary for hygiene. But that’s a myth. Germs are already eliminated during the wash cycle. Although smooth, wrinkle-free bedding may look elegant, ironing is by no means a must. For modern fabrics like cotton sateen or fil-à-fil, it's often enough to hang them carefully or smooth them by hand when folding.


In fact, ironing can sometimes be counterproductive. Heat flattens the fibers, which may reduce their breathability. Linen, valued for its natural look, appears appealing even without ironing. If you prefer a smoother look, drying bed linen at low temperatures in the dryer is a good alternative.


Myth 6: Bed linen only needs to be changed monthly


Fact: Hygiene and sleep quality heavily depend on proper care. Ideally, bed linen should be changed every two weeks—pillowcases even more frequently. Sweat, skin flakes, and dust particles accumulate during this time, creating perfect conditions for the growth of dust mites and bacteria.


In warmer months, weekly changes are recommended—especially if you sweat heavily or suffer from allergies. The same goes for people who sleep naked or share the bed with pets. Pillow and duvet covers should be washed at a minimum of 60°C to effectively kill germs.


To reduce moisture in the mattress, it also helps to regularly air out the bedroom. Clean linens not only enhance hygiene but also improve your overall well-being in bed.



Myth 7: Only solid colors look elegant – a bias against patterned bed linen


Fact: Patterned bed linen can also appear timeless, stylish, and exceptionally refined.


In the world of luxury bed linen, it’s often said that only solid colors are truly timeless and elegant. This bias is deeply rooted in the idea that patterns may appear too playful or even low-quality. But the truth is much more nuanced—especially in the premium segment, patterns offer a unique opportunity to combine personality, craftsmanship, and style. 


Patterns in high-end bed linen are far more than mere decoration. They tell stories, reflect artisanal precision and design sensitivity, and invite a sensual experience. Finely crafted jacquards, delicate embroideries, or intricate prints add a unique depth that plain fabrics often lack. The interplay of colors and shapes creates a vibrant elegance that can be interpreted both classically and in a modern way.


In short: the idea that only solids are elegant stems from a narrow perspective. True elegance thrives on variety, quality, and a sense of style—and in this symbiosis, patterned fabrics unfold their full, luxurious potential.

Discover the world of our bed linen – full of artistic patterns and sensual variety:

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A bed with a blanket and pillows on it in a bedroom.