Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about LinenOwl linen bedding. For anything specific to your order, email info@linenowl.com — we respond within 1 business day, Monday to Friday.
About the linen
What does “170 GSM” mean?
GSM is grams per square meter — the weight of one square meter of the fabric. 170 GSM is a medium-weight linen: substantial enough to last and to drape well, light enough to breathe in summer.
Where is your linen made?
The flax is European. The cut and sew is done in our workshop near Riga, Latvia. We do not subcontract.
What is OEKO-TEX 100?
An independent certification that the fabric and thread have been tested for substances that affect skin and lungs (formaldehyde, heavy metals, certain dyes). Our linen and thread are certified to Standard 100.
White vs Oatmeal — which should I choose?
White is a clean natural white (not bleached to a clinical shade). Oatmeal is undyed — the fabric features white (bleached) warp threads and gray (natural) weft threads. Choose by interior; both are the same fabric and weight.
How is linen different from cotton?
Linen is made from flax stems; cotton from cotton plant bolls. Linen fibres are longer and stronger, so the fabric lasts longer. Linen is more breathable and dries faster — naturally cooler in summer and warmer in winter than cotton of similar weight. It also softens over time rather than wearing thin.
Is linen warm in winter and cool in summer?
Yes — linen is naturally thermoregulating. The hollow fibre structure traps body heat in cold weather and wicks moisture away in heat. Same sheet, year-round.
Care & wash
Does linen shrink?
Yes — natural fibres shrink 3–5%. We cut every piece oversized to absorb this. After 1–2 cold washes, items settle to the size on the chart.
How do I wash linen bedding?
Wash before first use in cold water on a delicate cycle. For ongoing care, machine wash at 40 °C (104 °F) on delicate. Tumble dry low or line dry. Full details in the care guide.
Can I bleach my linen?
White: oxygen bleach (e.g. OxiClean) is safe for occasional brightening — never chlorine bleach. Oatmeal: do not bleach (chlorine or oxygen) — bleach would lighten the undyed tone unevenly.
Why is my linen wrinkled?
Linen carries a soft natural crease — that is its character, not a defect. If you want a crisp finish, iron while damp on the linen setting with steam.
Does white linen yellow over time?
Not with normal care. White linen yellows when stored damp, when bleached with chlorine, or after long UV exposure. Always dry fully and store dry. Oxygen bleach soak can brighten yellowed white linen.
Sizing & fit
What size do I need?
See the size guide for the full EU and US chart, plus notes specific to our pieces (pillowcase styles, deep-pocket fitted, bed-skirt drops).
Do EU and US sizes match?
No — they overlap but never align exactly. If your mattress is in inches, order US sizes; if in centimetres, order EU. Don’t convert across the chart.
Is my pillow size included in the pillowcase dimensions?
The listed size is the inner pillow area. Ruffles and the Oxford flange extend beyond it — see the size guide for exact ruffle and flange dimensions per style.
Orders, shipping & duties
How long does production take?
Standard catalogue sizes ship in 2–7 business days from our Latvian workshop. Custom sizes are quoted with a longer lead time per order.
How long does delivery take?
EU: typically 3–7 business days after dispatch. US: typically 7–14 business days after dispatch. Tracking number is emailed on dispatch.
Do US customers pay import duty?
Every U.S. order ships Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) — all taxes and duties are already included in the price. You won’t face any extra fees at checkout or on delivery.
Please provide your phone number for delivery purposes.
Do EU customers pay VAT?
EU orders include VAT at checkout. The displayed price is the final price you pay. No additional customs charges at delivery within the EU.
Please provide your phone number for delivery purposes.
Returns & customer service
What is your return policy?
30 days from delivery on unused items in original packaging. Customer pays return shipping. Faulty or wrong items: we cover return shipping and refund original shipping. Full terms in the returns policy.
Where can I see customer reviews?
Etsy — we have over 10,000 reviews from the same workshop, accumulated over 10+ years. Reviews from our DTC store will appear on each product page as orders ship.
Still have a question?
Email info@linenowl.com — we read every message and reply within 1 business day, Monday to Friday.