Brushed cotton: choose your bed linen

We all know cotton – a fabric woven from the fluffy fibers of the cotton plant. For centuries, this lightweight and versatile material has been a favorite for making clothes, towels and bed linen. But not all cotton is the same. There is a special type of cotton that is ultra-breathable, cozy, yet cool and incredibly soft to the touch. It’s brushed cotton, which is currently all the rage in the bedding world. But what exactly is brushed cotton and how is it made? We’ll explain what you should know about this amazing fabric and why it’s a great choice for bed linen.

What is brushed cotton?

As the name suggests, brushed cotton is cotton that has been treated with a brushing technique. The fabric is luxuriously smooth and cooler than most other types of cotton, yet still warm enough. It's soft with the elegance of a premium material. In other words, it's cotton, but better.

Brushed cotton is often used to make casual t-shirts, children's clothing, stuffed toys, baby blankets, pajamas, and nightgowns. Its undeniable softness also makes it an ideal choice for sheets and duvet covers. Do you know how to choose the right size of sheets ?

How is brushed cotton made?

In the production of brushed cotton, raw plant fibers are spun into threads and then woven into fabric. It is then gently rubbed with fine-toothed metal brushes, which lifts the fibers and creates a super soft surface. Excess lint is removed during the brushing process, leaving the material perfectly smooth. The fluffy fibers give the "combed" cotton fabric perfect insulation. The fabric is extra cozy, but does not overheat.

What you should know about brushed cotton bedding

The material of your bedding has a lot to do with your overall comfort and sleep quality. Some people prefer fabrics that retain heat, others need something more breathable. Brushed cotton is the best of both worlds, and then some.

The material is comfortable but not breathable. It is ideal for people who feel hot or sweaty at night, as the breathable brushed fabric wicks away moisture.

Brushed cotton bedding is soft to the touch, comfortable on the skin, and never itchy. People with eczema and other skin conditions—as well as babies and children with sensitive skin—can benefit from the soft, soothing fabric. And with its refined yet versatile look, the fabric works with a wide range of bedroom styles. It’s no wonder this material is becoming such a popular choice for sheets and duvet covers.

Brushed cotton is durable and easy to clean. Like all cotton sheets, brushed cotton sheets can shrink and pill over time, but this can usually be avoided with proper care.

Brushed cotton and other bedding materials

Of course, it's a good idea to have at least a rough idea of ​​the possible bedding materials before buying new bedding. Brushed cotton fabric is similar to flannel in terms of texture and manufacturing method. Flannel bedding can be made from cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers. The woven fabric is brushed with fine wires to raise the fibers and create a pile effect.

Brushed cotton vs flannel: What's the difference?

So what's the difference between flannel and brushed cotton? This fabric is technically a type of flannel, but unlike traditional flannel, brushed cotton is usually treated on only one side. It's also not as thick as flannel. This gives this fabric a balance of breathability and warmth.

Brushed cotton vs. percale, satin and linen

Then there’s percale cotton, which has a crisp, cool feel reminiscent of luxury hotel linens. Another option is sateen, a silky-smooth cotton fabric with a satin weave and a subtle sheen. Linen is another natural fabric known for its ability to soften over time. Made from flax fibers, the material is slightly firmer and heavier than cotton, but it’s also airy and breathable.

Brushed cotton is perfect for people who love the classic look of percale but want something a little softer and cozier. The fabric will also appeal to those who like satin but prefer a slightly lighter material. Not too warm, not too cold, undeniably snug and lightweight with a tasteful look, brushed cotton bedding is the best choice for year-round use.

And how do you actually choose the right bed linen ? Take a look at our selection of luxury bed linen and find out for yourself which material is right for you. We have bed linen made of brushed cotton, cotton sateen and percale, washed cotton and beautiful linen. Do you know the benefits of linen bed linen? We offer luxury bed linen, decorative pillows and bedspreads. Everything you need to create the bedroom of your dreams.