Is linen or cotton better for sheets?

Linen breathes and wicks moisture faster, so it suits hot sleepers and softens with every wash; cotton percale or sateen is smoother from day one, wrinkles less and usually costs less.

What thread count should I look for?

For cotton, a well-woven sheet in the 200–400 range is a good target — fiber quality matters more than a very high number. Linen is measured by weight (GSM), not thread count.

How should I wash new sheets?

Wash before first use in cool or warm water, skip fabric softener, and tumble dry low or line dry. Always follow the care label on the specific product.