What is Brushed Cotton Bedding?

What is Brushed Cotton Bedding? 

When it comes to the cosiness factor, nothing steps up quite like brushed cotton bedding. As the name suggests, this type of bed linen is finished with a unique brushing technique to create a luxurious, cashmere-soft feel. So, what is brushed cotton and why should it be a mainstay in your bedroom? 
Read on to find out more about brushed cotton bedding and how to choose a premium-quality product. 

What does brushed cotton mean? 

What is brushed cotton bedding and where did it come from? Brushed cotton has been around for centuries, with the technique originally used to soften wool and other coarse fabrics. Before metal brushes were engineered, tailors used dried thistles to create the brushed effect. Over time, the technique was modified to suit a 100% cotton weave. The world was quick to embrace the wonderfully soft and smooth texture of brushed cotton, with the material used not only for bedding but also to manufacture premium-quality clothing. 

It all starts with a high-quality woven cotton fabric, which is then agitated with a purpose-built mechanical metal brush machine. The metal bristles lift the miniscule fibres up from the surface to create a luxuriously soft finish. When the brushing is complete, the cotton has been transformed into a luxuriously soft cloth that’s comparable to finely woven wool, minus any itchiness. 

What about flannelette and brushed microfibre?

When browsing the bed linen market, you may see terms like flannelette and brushed microfibre appear. You may also be asking, what is brushed percale? While they all sound similar, these shouldn’t be used interchangeably with brushed cotton. They refer to sheets that have been finished with the same process that creates a soft, cosy feel. That said, it’s important to know the difference between brushed cotton sheets and brushed sheets made from other materials such as polyester and microfibre. 

What is brushed cotton fabric and how do I know if it’s natural? 

Check the labelling carefully as the word “brushed” isn’t exclusive to cotton. The technique can also be applied to other fabrics, including polyester, microfibre, bamboo rayon and lyocell. The best brushed sheets are made from 100% cotton, meaning you’ll enjoy all the benefits of the breathable natural fibre, coupled with a plush and oh-so-cosy handle. 

Brushed cotton sheets for babies

What is brushed cotton used for? As well as full-size sheets, the soft and cosy feel of brushed cotton bedding makes it a popular choice for baby’s cots. All parents want the best for their little ones, which is why 100% cotton brushed sheets run circles around their synthetic counterparts. As a natural material, cotton is both breathable and absorbent. This makes it ideal for cots and helps to keep babies comfortable while they snooze. 
Cotton is antibacterial and hypoallergenic, another great reason to opt for brushed sheets made from a natural material. With newborns sleeping up to 18 hours a day, you want to make sure their cots are as comfortable and cosy as possible.

The health benefits of brushed cotton sheets.

What are brushed cotton sheets and where does your health come in? When you buy brushed cotton sheets, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that you’re not exposing yourself or your kids to harsh chemicals or plastics used to manufacture synthetic materials. As well as irritating the skin, these toxins can be released into the air and breathed into the lungs, absorbed into the skin and leached into the nervous system over time. 
The ultimate winter warmer

When temperatures drop and the winter chill sets in, many Brits choose to swap out their lightweight linen for cosy brushed cotton bedding. Brushed sheets are a popular choice as the raised, feather-soft fibres trap warm air particles and help to retain heat. Team your brushed cotton bedding with an electric blanket and a hot water bottle and you have the perfect recipe for a good night’s sleep. 

What really sets brushed cotton sheets apart from their synthetic counterparts is the use of 100% natural materials. The ultra-soft brushed effect is achieved using natural cotton, meaning your sheets feel incredibly cosy while still being breathable. This makes brushed cotton sheets ideal for sleepers who run hot or experience night sweats. If you do start to overheat, the material naturally wicks moisture away from your skin. 
Ready to upgrade your bedding?

Browse our premium-quality brushed cotton bedding range today and experience the luxury of smooth, cashmere-soft sheets.