Linen vs. Cotton: Which Fabric Is Best for Summer?

Finding fashionable clothes that are also comfortable is a huge challenge during the summer. The top contenders for stylish yet comfortable fabrics are linen and cotton. But people often wonder - which is better? Is linen better than cotton? What is linen cloth?
Let us have a look at the differences between linen and cotton fabric to understand which natural fabric is best for summer.
In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about linen vs cotton. From what is linen made of to the benefits of cotton, we will answer all your questions and doubts in this blog.
Linen Vs. Cotton: 7 Key Differences Between Linen and Cotton
1. Source
Cotton and linen are both plant-based materials. However, linen comes from flax plant fibres, while cotton is made from the cotton plant.

2. Texture & Feel
Linen fabric texture is generally coarse in the beginning, but it gets softer with every wash. Cotton is smooth and soft in texture and feel.
3. Breathability & Comfort
High breathability is one of the major benefits of linen fabric. Cotton is also breathable, but not as much as linen.
4. Durability
Cotton and linen clothing are both durable and ideal for daily wear.
5. Absorbency & Drying
Cotton absorbs moisture well, but it does not dry as quickly as linen does. This is why linen is a great summer fabric.
6. Wrinkles & Maintenance
Linen fabric is more high-maintenance than cotton. Cotton does not wrinkle easily.
7. Cost & Availability
A major linen and cotton difference is in their availability. Cotton is easily available and hence, is cheaper than linen.
Linen vs. Cotton:
Factor |
Linen |
Cotton |
Source |
Made from flax plant fibers |
Made from cotton plant fibers |
Texture & Feel |
Coarser, slightly rough at first, but softens over time |
Soft and smooth from the start |
Breathability & Comfort |
Highly breathable, ideal for hot climates |
Breathable but slightly less than linen |
Durability |
Stronger and lasts longer with proper care |
Softer but tends to wear out faster |
Absorbency & Drying |
More absorbent and dries faster |
Absorbs moisture well but takes longer to dry |
Wrinkles & Maintenance |
Wrinkles easily requires more care |
Wrinkles less and is easier to maintain |
Cost & Availability |
More expensive and less widely available |
Generally more affordable and widely available |
5 Types & Benefits Of Linen Fabric
Here are 5 types of linen fabrics available at iTokri and their benefits:
1. Plain Weave Linen
This 100% natural linen fabric is perfect for humid summer days.
Benefit: This plain weave linen fabric is a super-fine density fabric, which makes it very soft and durable.
You can shop for different types of fabrics from iTokri. We also offer a vast selection of dress materials.

2. Weave Linen
Handwoven linen fabric from Bhagalpur, Bihar, is a testament to Indian handicrafts.
Benefit: This breathable fabric ensures maximum comfort.

3. Handloom Linen Saree
Linen handloom sarees are great for scorching summer days when you don’t want to compromise on your comfort.
Benefit: Handloom linen sarees are breathable and lightweight while also being stylish.

4. Loosely Linen Dupattas
The best part about linen dupattas is their versatility. From Zari embroidery to Bengal Jamdani work, linen dupattas work as the perfect canvases for art forms.
Benefit: These dupattas for women are durable and resistant to daily wear and tear.

Along with dupattas, we also offer women's kurtas and stitched suits that you can check out.
5. Pure Linen Stoles
These naturally dyed pure linen stoles are perfect for casual wear and office wear.
Benefit: These stoles for women are eco-friendly, sustainable and lightweight.

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5 Types & Benefits Of Cotton Fabric
Here are 5 types of cotton fabrics available at iTokri and their benefits:
1. Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is grown and woven without using any chemicals, which makes it environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Benefits: Very soft fabric, which keeps you cool and comfortable.

2. Handloom Cotton
The handspun handloom cotton fabric has a medium fine density, which makes it ideal for all types of clothing.
Benefits: This type of cotton fabric is breathable, soft, and resistant to wrinkles.

3. Pure cotton fabrics
The pure cotton fabrics available at iTokri are perfect for the summer season.
Benefits: Pure cotton fabrics or 100% cotton fabrics are super soft and skin-friendly.

4. Silk Cotton Fabrics
The blend of silk and cotton produces a luxurious and shiny silk cotton fabric that is perfect for festive occasions during summer.
Benefits: You get the rich look of silk with the softness and breathability of cotton.

5. Block print Cotton
Block-printed cotton fabrics are handmade by skilled artisans.
Benefits: This 100% pure cotton fabric is lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for hot and humid weather.

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Which Fabric is Better: Linen Or Cotton for Summer?
People often ask- Is linen better than cotton? And the answer is yes. If you live in a hot and humid climate, linen is better than cotton for you as it is more sweat absorbent, breathable, and durable. However, cotton is softer and more readily available than linen.
You can opt for a blend of cotton linen fabric to get the benefits of both fabrics.
Conclusion
Now that you know the difference between linen and cotton fabric and the benefits of each type, you can make an informed decision on which fabric to choose, depending on your requirements, be it women's kurtas or shirts for men. If you live in a tropical climate where you experience humid summers, go for linen fabric, as it dries faster and absorbs sweat better.
For dry and hot climates, cotton is preferable as it is softer and breathable.
Shop for pure linen and cotton clothing and fabrics from iTokri. iTokri is India’s most loved store for handmade fabrics and Indian handicrafts online
Frequently Asked Questions On Linen Vs. Cotton
1. Which is better fabric, linen or cotton?
Both cotton and linen fabrics are great as they are both natural and sustainable. However, linen is more breathable, absorbent and durable than cotton, making it a better choice for hot and humid climates.
2. Is 100% linen the same as 100% cotton?
No, 100% linen is completely different from 100% cotton. They are both made from completely different materials; 100% linen is coarser and more breathable than 100% cotton, which is softer.
3. Which is better for skin, linen or cotton?
Cotton is softer, so it feels more luxurious on your skin. Linen is coarser; however, it is more breathable and sweat-absorbent.
4. Is linen good for summer?
Yes, linen is a summer fabric as it is breathable, lightweight, and absorbent. Linen is ideal for summer.
5. Is linen better than cotton?
Yes, linen is better than cotton if you live in a hot and humid climate. If you live in a dry climate, cotton is better for you, as it is softer.
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