Linen is a type of fabric made from fibers of the flax plant. For thousands of years, people have woven flax into cloth that's strong, smooth, and naturally cool to the touch. Ancient Egyptians wrapped their mummies in linen, and for centuries it was a common fabric for clothing, sheets, and tablecloths.

Linen has special qualities that made it valuable long before modern fabrics existed. It absorbs moisture well, which makes linen shirts and pants comfortable in hot weather. It gets softer with each washing instead of wearing out. High-quality linen can last for decades, which is why families sometimes pass down linen tablecloths through generations.

Today, when people talk about linens, they usually mean household fabrics like sheets, pillowcases, and towels, even if these items are actually made from cotton rather than true linen. A hotel might advertise its “fine linens,” or your parents might ask you to put fresh linens on your bed.

Real linen wrinkles easily, which some people see as part of its natural charm. Others prefer fabrics that stay smooth. Either way, linen remains prized for its durability, breathability, and timeless quality.