Why linen bedding is good for your skin!

A popular myth about organic linen bedding is that it’s scratchy—as you may have experienced when handling linen sacking or car upholstery—but that’s not the same type of linen used in our organic linen duvet covers.

Linen comes from the flax plant, which yields both long and short fibers. These fibers are separated through a mechanical process called scutching: short, coarse fibers are used for industrial purposes, and long, fine fibers are used in homeware. Homeware-grade linen has all the same properties of strength and durability as industrial-grade linen but is soft and gentle on your skin.

That being said, linen bedding can still be a little stiff straight out of the factory—this is due to pectin, a fiber compound that’s naturally present in flax (and has been linked to better heart and gut health when consumed as flaxseed). Pectin is soluble—so we garment-wash your organic linen duvet covers using enzymes to ensure that it’s beautifully soft when it reaches you.

Even after being garment-washed, some pectin remains in the linen, which continues to dissolve over time as you use and wash your organic linen bedding. You’ll likely find, therefore, that your linen bedding is even softer after a year of use than when you bought it.

Linen production and processing traditions in Lithuania continue for centuries. This long experience of the country is also reflected in Genix products. Genix uses linen fabrics woven in the most modern factories of Lithuania. The fabrics are certified by the widely recognized Oeko Tex certificate. 

Genix is also unique in its sewing technique, which guarantees the highest quality and durability of the products. Genix products made of luxurious and natural Linen fabric are perfectly suited for those who love healthy lifestyle, premium quality and naturalness.

You may have heard that linen is hypoallergenic—but what does that actually mean?

Most allergic reactions to bedding are caused by dust mites or mold growing in the fabric. Hypoallergenic textiles possess properties that prevent the proliferation of these allergens, thereby reducing your chance of experiencing a reaction.

Linen is a naturally breathable fiber due to its porousness. This means that air can circulate freely, wicking moisture away and preventing mold from growing. And—although linen has a looser weave than silk or cotton—it’s sufficiently tight that dust mites cannot penetrate. These properties make linen bedding an ideal choice if you suffer from asthma or eczema.

All fabrics, however, need regular washing to remain allergen free, so wash your organic linen bedding at least once every two weeks to keep it fresh. The need for regular washing is one of the reasons Europeans prefer duvets and duvet covers to comforters: even with a top sheet, comforters regularly come into contact with the skin, and are a breeding ground for mold and dust mites unless washed. If you can’t bear to part with your comforter, consider putting a duvet cover over it instead.

Linen’s moisture-wicking properties also wick sweat away from the skin. Sweat is a major cause of blocked pores, which go on to form blackheads and spots. Linen pillowcases, therefore, can support your skincare routine by keeping your skin dry at night. Make sure you select a breathable pillow to compliment your moisture-wicking bedding: responsibly sourced down pillows with a minimum fill power of 650 will have enough loft for air to circulate.