Good quality bed linen made of pure cotton, without any synthetic additives, is quite expensive. In order not to make a mistake and not spoil the impression of buying a bedding set, you must learn how to choose it correctly.
In the modern variety of manufacturers, many collections and types of fabrics for bed linen, it is not easy to navigate and choose high-quality bed linen that can delight us for many years. Moreover, the set is often bought as a gift for various celebrations, and you really don’t want to spoil the impression of the gift after the first wash.
How to choose bed linen? Firstly, you need to know exactly the dimensions of the sleeping area. Secondly, decide what color fabrics will suit the overall design of your bedroom. Well, and of course, choose bedding made from calico or chintz of really good quality. This is especially important if you are buying children's bedding.
Choosing bed linen: main characteristics
A truly good bedding set can be identified by the textiles it was made from. Please note how the product is packaged. The packaging should not be deformed, open, or have any damage or scratches. This says a lot about the manufacturer and supplier itself. The sticker contains valid information about the manufacturer: enterprise address, batch number, production date and methods of contacting the official supplier or manufacturer. The container itself in which the kit is packaged has a uniform color and the presence of a brand mark.
The canvas must be intact, without various puffs, protruding threads and holes. At the same time, the fabric itself should not tear, show through when stretched, or lose its original shape.
The most important thing is the degree of density of the fabric, i.e. the number of threads used per 1 square centimeter of fabric. A good choice would be a set made of thick textiles. Thus, the linen will not cause discomfort during sleep and will not lose its original quality after the first wash.
Important! Durable, high-quality textiles have a high density.
The best option to buy is a standard bedding set, which includes classic-cut pillowcases, a “closed” duvet cover, and a sheet with an elastic band. The dimensions of this linen will always fit any perimeter of the bed, thanks to the adjustment using an elastic band on the sheet.
The designs on the products are clear, using pastel shades. If, however, the print is applied abundantly, then it may subsequently fade when washed or stain the body. Also try to avoid laundry with foreign odors. This may indicate improper storage conditions, and therefore a deterioration in the quality characteristics of the product. In some cases, such products with strong aromas cause allergies and skin irritation.
Bed linen quality criteria
- Manufacturer. The brand name should be heard. However, there is often a markup on branded goods, although the quality of many fabrics from little-known manufacturers is not inferior to popular models.
- Appearance. The absence of protruding threads and processed seams indicate the good quality of the product.
- Tactile sensations. Luxury fabrics like satin or silk should be pleasant to the touch.
- Availability of dyes. There should be no paint left on your hand after running over the surface of the fabric.
- Strength. After 6-12 months of use, the linen should not tear or look shabby.
Which bed linen to choose depending on the type
Elite
Bed linen can be considered elite if:
- For its production, only first-class fabrics from luxury manufacturers are used, which prevents rapid wear of the linen and the development of allergic reactions;
- quality of tailoring and print;
- variety of price categories and varieties.
Luxury products are made from expensive fabrics. For the most part, natural silk, bamboo and linen predominate. Elite jacquard and Egyptian cotton are expensive sets, have increased density and beautiful designs.
Important! When choosing luxury bedding, base it on the size of the bed. Most of them are calibrated using a standard parameter.
Budget
The most common and popular option. Most buyers opt for an inexpensive price tag and inconspicuous design. From fabrics we can recommend:
- calico;
- percale;
- poplin;
- cotton + satin.
The main advantage is long wear resistance and resistance to hard water. The designs remain bright for a long time, the canvas itself is of average strength.
Children's
Bed linen for a child differs from all others by using hypoallergenic eco-friendly fabrics in the production, regardless of the price tag and manufacturer. Used fabrics:
- calico;
- satin;
- chintz;
- percale;
- cotton 100%;
- cotton + polyester.
The last two materials are perfect for the youngest children, as they are soft and have a low density, which is necessary for the baby’s sensitive skin.
Important! It is not recommended to choose a bed for babies and preschool children with a too bright, colorful print. Allergies appear from the abundance of helmets.
The best bed linen manufacturers
- "Vasilisa" (Russia) . Inexpensive, practical and high-quality bedding sets. They are sewn from natural materials - linen, satin, poplin and others. The assortment includes models of classic and stylish designs.
- "Monolith" (Russia) . Offers a wide range of bed linen from inexpensive to luxury products. Among the models there are options with 3D patterns and different designs on each side of the pillowcase and blanket. The company produces underwear made from natural cotton, which is durable and has a long service life.
- Sailid (China) . Produces luxury bed linen from natural eco-materials. These include calico, poplin, satin, jacquard. Expensive models have high quality 3D printing. Good sewing quality.
- " Cleo " (China) . Bed linen is predominantly made of satin fabric. The material is smooth and pleasant to the touch. Duvet covers and pillowcases have zippers, which allows you to keep pillows and blankets in their original form for as long as possible. 3D printing is used in bed linen design. Satin is a durable material, so Cleo products have a long service life.
- "Viluta" (Ukraine) . Sells bed linen made of calico, satin, poplin and expensive satin. It is distinguished by high quality and well-designed products. The advantages are natural materials and a large selection of products. The manufacturer also sells pillowcases and sheets separately. It’s very convenient, because you can buy part of a set of bed linen to replace worn-out ones.
- "Asabella" (Italy) . Popular brand of bed linen. produces high-quality luxury fabrics. The design of most kits is developed in Italy, production is in China. A large number of models in stock. The bed linen of this brand is durable and has a long service life.
- "ArtPostel" (Russia) . Produces sets from satin, poplin, calico. The line includes all sizes of bed linen - from children's singles to double European standards. The products contain dense and durable fabrics. Product design is mostly classic. The prices for the kits are not high.
- " Valtery " (China). It produces cotton bed linen of all types - from classic and budget to luxury and expensive. The range includes sets for children and newborns.
- "TAC" (Turkey) . Among the manufacturer's sets there are bed linens made of bamboo, satin, and cotton. These materials are strong and durable. The line has good design solutions.
- "Blakit" (Belarus) . The products of this manufacturer are characterized by high strength, color fastness and low prices. The design is at an acceptable level.
Options for choosing bed linen
Before purchasing a new bedding set, you should decide on its purpose. That is, purchase a classic set for traditional use, to add beauty, or give it as a gift. In each case, you will find what you need in a certain style, at the required properties and at the required cost.
Additionally, you should determine the necessary material properties that the purchased set must have. Namely, its degree of density, brightness of shades.
Bed linen manufacturers with prices
Manufacturer | A country | Average price per set (RUB) |
Vasilisa | Russia | 1161 — 1678 |
Monolith | Russia | 1750 — 2050 |
Saylid | China | 3086 — 6287 |
Cleo | China | 2250 — 6480 |
Viluta | Ukraine | 1428 — 8183 |
Asabella | Italy | 4800 — 16800 |
Artpostel | Russia | from 1241 |
Valtery | China | 1800 — 4770 |
TAC | Türkiye | 4750 — 8990 |
Blakit | Belarus | 1399 — 5518 |
The prices in the table are presented for May 2020
Which bedding to choose depending on size
To determine the appropriate size of the bedding set, you should take the following measurements:
- the width and length of the blanket;
- the width and length of the pillow;
- mattress dimensions.
Pillowcases are divided into rectangular and square depending on the parameters of the pillow. For example, a 60x60 pillowcase will fit perfectly with a square pillow, and 52x72 will fit perfectly with a rectangular one.
The duvet cover should not fit tightly to the blanket. You need to select a product 5-8 cm wider to make it easier to put on and convenient to use. The sheet should be selected according to the same properties. You can also use the following formula to calculate the ideal parameters of the product: for example, the width of a non-standard mattress is 180 cm, and the length of two sides is 30 cm. This leads to the formula - 30+30+180=270. Therefore, 270 cm is the optimal sheet length for your mattress.
All sets are sewn according to classic measurements - 180x210, 200x220, so in most cases they do not fit on the bed and quickly tear or become deformed. Also, do not rely on standard labels on the packaging (1.5 bedroom, 2 bedroom). Use your own bed measurements as a guide. This will help you choose the right underwear that fits all parameters.
Satin
The first place in the top three belongs to satin. Satin is a little like silk (it is also called “silk cotton”). The outer side is smooth, and the material itself is dense (average density 130-140 g/m2). This is facilitated by double twisting of the threads: the more twisted the thread, the more shine on the front side of the satin. The underside is soft and rough. Complicated weaving of threads, as well as processing of thread raw materials with special alkaline solutions (mercerization), create improved quality characteristics: strength, smoothness, wear resistance, preservation of color brightness. Cotton fiber is used to make satin, but silk sateen is also available.
The labor-intensive weaving process increases the cost of this material. The average price tag for a 1.5 bedroom set, taking into account discounts, is 2,780 rubles. From different companies, the price for a similar set of satin can reach 5,000 rubles or more.
In pursuit of cheaper goods, textile factories began to use polysatin - this is a 100% artificial material, sometimes unscrupulous sellers lure buyers with a low price and pass off polysatin as natural satin, beware of fakes!
There are several popular varieties of satin. For example, satin jacquard, which has a textured silky structure and a bright glossy sheen, which gives the product an expensive, rich look. In bedding sets, satin jacquard is most often used in combination with traditional cotton sateen. To produce this fabric, different types of threads are used - glossy and matte, so the density becomes even higher (average density 140-150g/m2) than regular satin. Satin jacquard practically does not wrinkle, allows air to pass through well, absorbs moisture, repels dust, is easy to care for and one of the most durable in use. Products made from satin jacquard fit perfectly into the classic bedroom interior and look royal.
The cost of such bed linen exceeds the price of a regular satin set. In our store, satin jacquard sets can be found at prices starting from 4,430 rubles.
Another type of satin is quite well known - satin stripe (“stripe”). Its peculiarity is the alternation of glossy and matte stripes, as well as monochromatic dyeing - a smoothly dyed method of dyeing fabric. Thus, the finished product takes on a discreet and noble appearance. Bed linen made from stripe satin is chosen by people with refined taste, as well as those who like minimalism and modern interior style. In terms of density and wear resistance, it is not inferior to satin jacquard. The price category of the stripe is high.
Another common option is satin with a 3D effect, which is created by a special method of printing a design on fabric. As a result, the product retains all the properties of satin, but at the same time is distinguished by an original three-dimensional pattern, most often in the form of images of nature. It could be a snow field with traces of a person who has just passed, a delightful waterfall in a tropical forest, or luxurious bouquets of flowers. Such original models are best suited for people with a well-developed imagination, romantic dreamers and anyone who does not like boredom and monotony.
Turkish brands Karven, Kartex, Karbeltex, as well as Russian textile companies Princess and the Pea, Verossa, Nordtex, Mona Lisa - premium category, Seltex Europe - economy class satin, often make bedding from 3D satin.
What fabric to choose for bed linen
Textiles used for tailoring must meet all quality standards and buyer requirements. What are the main qualities when choosing a suitable canvas?
Ventilation
Natural fabrics such as cotton, linen and silk have excellent breathability. That is, air circulates regularly, takes body temperature, creating comfortable conditions for sleep.
Strength
Durable fabric is resistant to periodic washing and wear-resistant. A set of delicate, soft fabric loses its original appearance after the first wash on a standard washing machine program, when a highly durable product does not accept any changes.
This fabric does not fade, does not wrinkle and retains heat for a long time, which is necessary during the harsh, cold winter.
Important! You should not purchase underwear made from too thick fabric in the summer. During sleep you will feel discomfort and your skin will not breathe.
Percale
The main difference between percale and other 100% cotton fabrics is its high density and simultaneous softness. Initially, percale was created for sewing parachutes and tents. Naturally, the primary properties of the material were density, impermeability and strength. But later it was modified to make high quality bedding. Percale bed linen competes with satin and surpasses it in durability, density, and at the same time its cost is lower.
Density is achieved through the process of sizing the threads - applying a natural adhesive composition. This treatment removes fluffiness, minimizes fiber pilling, adds smoothness and strength to the fabric (withstands up to 1000 washes, does not allow dust and fluff to pass through). Printed designs on the surface of percale look especially attractive and juicy. The disadvantages include high creasing and reduced breathability due to increased density. It is recommended to iron percale bed linen damp.
In terms of cost, percale can be compared to ranfors - prices for a 1.5 bedroom set, taking into account discounts, vary from 1670 (TexDesign) and 1920 (Princess and the Pea) to 2640 rubles (Verossa, Nordtex).
Which bedding from expensive fabric to choose
The most optimal is a set made of natural satin without impurities. Textiles differ from silk in their strength and density. Expensive fabric has thermoregulation and a pleasant appearance. Does not shrink during the first wash and does not wear out quickly with frequent use. Thanks to its matte finish, it does not wrinkle, does not slip, and does not cause discomfort.
A bamboo bedding set is an option for people with a tendency to allergies and skin irritations. Does not roll down, does not slip, made from antibacterial raw materials. Due to its elasticity, air circulates well and does not absorb sweat.
Popular silk is a very expensive fabric, especially the Japanese version, made by hand. Such fabric should be washed only on a gentle wash cycle, avoiding sudden temperature changes and the appearance of stains. Also, the kit is only suitable for summer, as it does not have heat resistance and good temperature regulation.
Important! Silk is one of the most pleasing fabrics, despite its high cost and luxury.
Which fabric to choose for bed linen depending on weaving
Chintz
Tops the rating of budget kits. The material does not require special care, is hypoallergenic and breathable. Due to its low density, it has a simple print with minimal use of paint.
Chintz wears out too quickly and shrinks. The fabric wrinkles and pills.
Calico
One of the most stable and wear-resistant options. It is easy to wash, does not form pills, does not wrinkle. The material is made from an environmentally friendly composition, hypoallergenic, does not fade. Products made from calico can be soaked in stain remover and washed in very hot water.
The downside is that it is unpleasant to the touch. High density gives a rough, matte surface, which can be uncomfortable the first time you use this linen.
Satin
Hypoallergenic, eco-friendly fabric is suitable for people with sensitive skin. Irons well, does not form pills, wear-resistant. Despite its average density, chintz is breathable and has thermoregulation. One of the main disadvantages is its high cost and poor resistance to household chemicals. That is, such bed linen cannot be bleached or soaked in stain remover.
Poplin
The most pretentious and “demanding” fabric. For such fabric, careful care and hand washing are important. But it is also very durable and dense. Wear-resistant, hypoallergenic, soft. Does not wrinkle, but may shrink and fade.
Advice! Poplin products should be washed in water at room temperature using a minimal amount of cleaning powder.
Percale
Dense, hygroscopic textiles. A percale bedding set is perfect in the hot summer, as the fabric absorbs sweat and does not stick to the skin or wrinkle. Soft, but does not allow feathers or dust to penetrate inside.
Jacquard
In other words - 100% cotton. Eco-friendly material with pompous prints and a luxurious look will appeal to lovers of aesthetic designs. With regular, proper care it will last a long time. Does not fade, because it does not contain bright colors.
The fabric is extremely delicate, prone to snags and protruding threads. After washing at high temperatures, it may shrink and wrinkle.
Important! Jacquard sets are often found in luxury hotel rooms and premium apartments.
High-quality calico contains 100% cotton fibers
The inscription "100% cotton" means that this is natural cotton underwear. Humanity has not yet come up with anything more healthy for sleep than the natural purity of cotton. Linen should breathe, absorb moisture, and not irritate the skin. Any chemical, synthetic additives in fabrics, such as polyester and lavsan (in some Turkish and Chinese fabrics) worsen the hygienic properties of linen. It is especially important to consider this factor when purchasing children's bedding.
Children's underwear must be calico or calico containing 100% cotton fiber. Children's skin is very sensitive to synthetic additives, and it is better to choose expensive, but pure cotton bed linen.
Which linen to choose depending on the finish of the bedding
Linen must match the parameters of bedding. To prevent the sheet from crumpling and causing inconvenience, you should opt for a product with a thick elastic band. This solution will help for fixation.
Snaps, zippers or buttons on products prevent inconvenience in use. No need to worry about the blanket coming out of the laundry or turning into a big lump. At the same time, the pillows will be tightly fixed, which will give more comfort to sleep.
The only negative is that the zipper may break and the buttons may fall off during washing. Therefore, the best option for many years has been properly sewn products with fabric bookmarks.
Ranfors
Ranfors is a fabric that recently appeared in textile fashion. It is often used by Turkish bed linen manufacturers (Karven), and this is not surprising, since ranfors comes from Turkey. High-quality processed and purified cotton is used to make the fabric. The interlacing of threads is not the classic cross-shaped, but diagonal, which creates the unique texture of the ranfors. Its properties include high density (120 g/m2), wear resistance, and moderate hardness. The surface of the ranfors is matte, comfortable for the skin.
The price category for ranfors bed linen is average, cheaper than satin and more expensive than calico and poplin. Buyers who have managed to evaluate the ideal price ratio of ranfors call it their favorite. Russian textile manufacturers also fell in love with this material:
- Mona Lisa – 1.5 bedroom 1990 rubles;
- Magic night, Nordtex – 1890 rub.