Thursday, May 28, 2009

Linen Sheets: online comparison shopping

I founded linoto because I love linen sheets. As a designer I enjoy creating beautiful things that feel special to me and to others. Also, I was unable to find colorful, affordable linen sheets in modern styles. Occasionally I like to see what's available from other lines. I searched online for queen size real flax linen sheet sets (flat sheet, fitted sheet, 2 pillowcases) shipped to New York, NY. My results are listed below.

I did not find tremendous innovation in styling or customization from most manufacturers. The biggest surprise is the lack of information on fitted sheet depth. It's great that Williams-Sonoma offers monogramming, although that makes the items non-returnable. The Linoto Belgian Eco-linen is certainly of the same quality (and likely from the same mill) as that sold at Frette for more than three times the price. I love the colors at Belgianhuis. Bed skirts are also an excellent offering. But Linoto remains the most affordable option for 100% linen sheet sets in a wide range of colors and styles. Linoto also allows you to choose from two mattress depths and 2 pillowcase styles. I'm sure I did not include every linen sheet line in my survey, but I'd love to hear from others searching for linen sheets. I hope this is helpful.

linoto
$299.00-$312.00
price includes shipping
fitted sheet is offered in 10-13" standard depth or 14-19" deep pocket
you choose pillowcases or shams
available in 19 colors
made in USA
arrive washed with biodegradable laundry soap

Frette
$1,735.00 if you live in a state with a retail location or $1600 if not
fitted sheet depth not provided
1 pillowcase type to choose from
white, ivory, natural available

goodnightnaturals (AreaSimone)
$698.94
price includes $8.72 shipping
fitted sheet depth not provided
1 pillowcase type to choose from
white, midnight, charcoal available

goodnightnaturals (Matteo bedding)
$603.72
price includes $8.72 shipping
fitted sheet depth not provided
1 pillowcase type to choose from
white, greige, earth available

Belgianhuis
$502.00
fitted sheet depth not provided
1 pillowcase type to choose from
many colors available

Rawganique
$452.75
price includes $15.75 shipping
fitted sheet depth not provided
1 pillowcase type to choose from
ivory, natural available

Williams-Sonoma
$386.88
price includes $32 shipping and handling + $25 in taxes if you are in a state with a retail location.
fitted sheet depth not provided
1 pillowcase type to choose from
(monogramming available)
white, ivory, natural available

Cuddledown
$362.95
price includes $22.95 shipping and handling fee
available in white, ivory, natural
fitted sheet depth 14"
1 pillowcase type
made in USA

GarnetHill
$353.95
price includes $18.95 shipping and handling fee
available in plum or bark only (as of 5/19/09) no white
fitted sheet depth not provided
1 pillowcase type to choose from

In the last 2 years, little change has occurred in the affordability of linen sheets. Only 1 company, Linoto, offers 2 fitted sheet depths (10-13" standard depth or 14-19" deep pocket). This is important because mattresses come in many depths. Only 3 companies, Linoto, Belgianhuis, and GarnetHill, offer linen sheets in colors beyond white, ivory, and natural. The most affordable company to purchase a queen size set of linen sheets is Linoto.