Review | Linen bedding from Soak & Sleep

I’ve seen linen bedding popping up all over the place lately, and I love the way it looks – relaxed, inviting, effortlessly stylish. I’ve also heard that it leads to a better night’s sleep, as its loose, natural flax is more breathable, absorbs more moisture and dries faster than tightly woven fabrics. But I’ve always worried that it might feel scratchy, and I’ve been reluctant to move away from crisp cotton – particularly given the expense involved in buying in a whole new set of pillow cases, sheets and duvet covers. So, when the lovely people at Soak & Sleep asked if I’d like to try a set of their French linen bedding as part of my ongoing quest for more slumber, I jumped at the chance to find out if it really is as comfortable as people say.

First things first, though: it looks beautiful. Soak & Sleep’s sets come with ties (so much prettier than buttons or prestuds), and the Oxford edging and fabric weight give them a lovely drape. I chose a delicate pale-grey colour (other options are white, silvery-blue and charcoal), and it works brilliantly against the dark headboard in our master bedroom.

As for the feel of the linen, it’s much smoother and softer than I expected – ideal for night-time snuggling and lazy weekend lounging. And it’s certainly kept me cooler – I’ve been able to get into bed and huddle up against the September chill without worrying about waking up hot a couple of hours later. It even has the cat’s seal of approval: since I swapped to linen he’s spent every night dosing on the duvet, foregoing his favourite sheepskin throw downstairs.

Best of all, it’s easy to care for. It can be machine-washed and tumble-dried, and it looks good even when crumpled (life really is too short to iron bedding!). There’s not even any need to spend time making the bed, as I reckon linen works best when it’s not perfectly neat and tidy.

In short, I’m a linen convert. I might now have to invest in a set for our guest room, too…

Soak & Sleep kindly provided the bedding for this post, but all words and opinions are my own.

Photography by Abi Dare