Linen is an environmentally friendly fabric, superior even to cotton

Cotton, move over, another eco-friendly fabric has appeared: linen. It is obtained from a plant called flax. It is easy to grow, requires little water and is biodegradable. After processing and obtaining the fabric, the material becomes durable, wear-resistant and only improves over time.

Why should you choose linen clothes?

There are many benefits to wearing linen clothing, writes xrust. Because flax grows in a wide range of climates (lots of rain!), it reduces the need for intensive watering or chemical applications. This means that flax typically requires less pesticides and water to grow than other crops such as cotton. Linen is also biodegradable and is known for its strength and durability, making it a more eco-friendly choice compared to synthetic materials.

You'll notice that your linen items become softer and more comfortable with each wash, making them ideal for everyday wear. With a relaxed and casual style, linen is ideal for a variety of occasions, from beach outings to casual office settings. What's more, it's breathable and moisture-wicking (which is why many people love using it as linen bedding!), so it'll keep you cool in the warmer months and layer comfortably with other clothes in the colder months. Plus, it requires virtually no special care, which we think is a real benefit!

Why is organic flax important?

Organic linen is a great choice when it comes to sustainable, high-quality clothing for several important reasons. Flax requires much less water to grow than cotton and grows well without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers when grown organically. This in turn means that organic flax production helps maintain the health of the soil and surrounding ecosystem, while also protecting farmers and local communities from exposure to toxic chemicals. Unlike conventional textiles, organic linen is processed without harsh bleaches or dyes, making it gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin.

From a sustainability point of view, organic linen is an ideal material. It is completely biodegradable and compostable, meaning that at the end of its life cycle it naturally returns to the earth without adding to landfills or polluting the environment with microplastics.

How is flax made and why is it so expensive?

Linen is made from flax fibers and its production is labor-intensive and time-consuming, which explains its higher cost compared to other fabrics. The process begins with flax, a crop that grows well in cool climates and typically requires fewer pesticides and water, especially when farming organically. After harvesting, the entire flax plant is pulled out of the ground to preserve the full length of the fibers. These stems are then soaked—a natural soaking process that breaks down the pectins that bind the fibers to the woody pith—before they are broken off, trimmed, and processed to extract and clean the long flax fibers. These fibers are then spun into yarn and woven into fabric, which requires skill and precision to maintain the integrity of the material.

Linen is also more expensive because it produces less useful fiber than cotton and has a shorter growing season, making it less affordable. However, the result is a durable, breathable and environmentally friendly fabric that softens over time and lasts for many years.

What certificates are important when buying linen clothing?

When purchasing linen clothing, having multiple certifications will help ensure that you are choosing products that are sustainably, ethically produced and safe for both you and the planet. Here are the most important ones that you should pay attention to:

• GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): This is one of the most trusted certifications for organic textiles. It ensures that the linen is made from organically grown flax and processed without the use of toxic chemicals, following strict environmental and social criteria throughout the supply chain.
• OEKO-TEX® 100 standard: This certificate guarantees the absence of harmful substances in the finished linen product. It checks for chemicals that are hazardous to human health, even if they are not yet regulated by law.
• European Flax®: Certificate confirming that flax is grown in Western Europe (France, Belgium or the Netherlands) without irrigation, GMOs or waste. It also promotes traceability and adoption of low environmental impact farming practices.
• Masters of Linen®: This seal guarantees that linen is 100% European, from the growing of the flax to the spinning and weaving. It maintains a fully traceable and local supply chain with high environmental and social standards.
• Fairtrade: Although less common specifically for linen, this certification ensures that people involved in clothing production are paid fairly and work in safe and humane conditions.
• Cradle to Cradle Certified®: It's more than just organic—it considers the entire product lifecycle, from materials and manufacturing to circularity and social justice.

How to care for linen clothing

Caring for linen clothing is relatively simple, but a few thoughtful steps can help your items last longer and look their best. Linen is naturally durable and becomes softer with each wash, so regular wear and gentle washing will improve the condition of the fabric over time. For everyday linen items, machine wash them on a gentle cycle in cold or warm water using a mild, eco-friendly detergent. Air drying is ideal for preserving fibers and preventing shrinkage — simply lay items flat or hang them to dry. While ironing is optional (linen's natural folds are part of its charm), you can steam or iron the garment for a neater look.

If you want to achieve a flawless, elegant look—especially for structured linen items like suits, jackets, or special occasion wear—dry cleaning is often recommended. However, it is worth noting that traditional dry cleaning involves the use of toxic chemicals such as perchlorethylene. For a gentler approach, look for eco-friendly dry cleaners that use gentler, safer alternatives. Ultimately, the best grooming method depends on your goals: creating a casual, distressed look or achieving a sleek, professional look.

Does flax have any disadvantages?

Despite the many wonderful qualities of linen — breathability, durability and environmental friendliness — it also has several disadvantages that should be taken into account. One of the most noticeable is that linen wrinkles easily. Its natural fibers do not have sufficient elasticity, so wrinkles form quickly, especially when moving or sitting. This makes it the best option for casual or relaxed wear, where a slightly rumpled look is part of the charm. If you're going for a polished or professional look, linen may not be for you unless you're willing to steam or iron regularly (or choose a linen blend). Additionally, pure linen can sometimes feel a little stiff at first glance, although it softens beautifully over time and after washing. Despite these features, you'll likely find that linen's coolness, breathability, and timeless style outweigh its drawbacks.

Xrust Linen is an environmentally friendly fabric, superior even to cotton