Cotton vs. Linen: What's the Difference?

See the more comprehensive comparison Here

Linen (pictured above) and cotton, both natural vegetable fibers, make great materials for blankets and throws. Both fibers are absorbent, durable and become softer with use. Even with all of their similarities, there are some significant differences between the two fibers that may help you choose the right fabric for you.

Cotton

Harvested from cotton plants, the cotton fiber tends to wrinkle less than linen. Known for being softer and warmer, cotton holds its elasticity wash after wash. Cotton blankets also tend to feel more substantial. Click here to see Brahms Mount's full inventory of cotton blankets and throws.

Linen

From the flax plant, linen is typically a little smoother than cotton - it is a bast fiber, similar to hemp. An incredibly strong fiber, linen feels cooler than many other fabrics. It also weighs less and has more texture. We have a large library of posts with information about linen - see our linen archives here.

Linen Towels

There’s nothing wrong with traditional towels, per se. It’s just that most towels are made from cotton, which isn’t quite as adept at absorbing liquid as, say, a linen towel.

What's better than a blend?

Don't discount linen/cotton blankets, with the familiarity of cotton and the breathability of linen. Also see linen / cotton throws.