Fabric softeners can coat the natural fibers and reduce breathability; linen softens naturally on its own.

Made from the flax plant, linen requires much less water and fewer pesticides to produce than cotton. What to Look For Before You Buy

Linen has a distinct "crisp" feel at first, but it softens significantly with every single wash, eventually becoming buttery smooth.

Look for certifications like European Flax or Masters of Linen . These ensure the fiber was grown in ideal climates (usually France or Belgium) without GMOs.