“Feels like summer when I’m with you
Parang islang pantropiko (Like a tropical island)
Can’t wait to go back with you
Sa islang pantropiko (To the tropical island)”
–BINI, Pantropiko
The Nation’s Girl Group BINI singing and dancing to their hit song “Pantropiko” reminds the Philippines once again that the country is a tropical paradise. But its climate demands thoughtful choices when the sunshine brings its fair share of sweltering heat and humidity. It is easy to paint a picture of the Philippines with swaying palm trees, pristine beaches, and endless sunshine, but the nation is so unified that it is not the same picture when this kind of heat hits every home. Choosing the perfect fabric for home furnishings tells us that Filipinos deserve comfortable and functional living spaces in our Pantropiko homes.
Soft Linen Fabrics are a must-have for every Filipino home for their many beneficial characteristics that make them the perfect tropical choice for home essentials such as curtains, throws, tablecloths, bedding, blankets, etc.
What are the benefits of soft linen for tropical climates?
Not every Filipino home is cooled by an air conditioner. Some homes prefer to be cooled naturally by the right home ventilation for practical reasons. Soft Linen fabric is the perfect match for this budget-friendly idea. Our fabric experts say that this is a perfect tropical choice because it is:
- Breathable: Soft linen allows air to circulate freely. This breathability keeps you cool and comfortable during those sweltering hot and dry months. Ideal for curtains, throws, tablecloths, and even clothing like lightweight shirts and summer dresses.
- Moisture-wicking: Linen absorbs moisture, preventing sweat from clinging to your skin. This is good for bedding and furniture covers for a more restful sleep and cooler seating experiences. Perfect for bed sheets, duvet covers, pillowcases, and sofa slipcovers.
- Durable: Linen is highly resistant to wear and tear. This translates to long-lasting curtains, beddings, and furniture covers that can withstand the daily use of a Filipino household. Consider linen for table runners, placemats, and even kitchen towels due to their frequent laundering needs.
- Easy Care: Contrary to popular belief, soft linen is relatively easy to maintain. Most linen items can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle and air-dried. This makes linen a practical choice for busy Filipino households.
Ask around home design experts and they will easily recommend soft linen fabric for your homes in our hot and humid climate.
How is soft linen made?
Soft linen is derived from the flax plant, a natural and sustainable resource. The flax fibers are extracted, spun into yarn, and then woven into a fabric. While the process can be labor-intensive, the resulting product is known for its luxurious quality and long-lasting appeal. This video is a quick visit to its production process:
What are the best uses for soft linen?
We asked some textile shops and visited some websites to find answers. We gathered a wide range of expert opinions from their experience and formal opinions. Here is a summary of their recommendations on how one can maximize the benefits of soft linen fabrics:
Living Room:
- Curtains: Linen curtains provide excellent light filtration while maintaining a cool and airy feel in your living spaces. They drape beautifully, adding a touch of elegance to any room.
- Throw pillows: Linen throws add texture and visual interest to sofas and armchairs while providing a cool spot to rest.
- Tablecloths: Linen tablecloths bring a comfortable dining experience, offering a naturally elegant and durable option, perfect for both casual and formal meals.
Bedroom:
- Bedding: Soft linen sheets offer a restful sleep experience. They are cool to the touch and become even softer with each wash. Consider a linen duvet cover and pillowcases for a complete set.
- Bedskirts: Linen bedskirts add a touch of sophistication while hiding unsightly storage stuff beneath the bed.
Bathroom:
- Bath towels and washcloths: Soft linen towels are highly absorbent and dry quickly, a perfect combination for the humid Philippine climate.
- Shower curtains: While not as common, linen shower curtains offer a unique and luxurious look while remaining mildew-resistant due to linen’s natural anti-bacterial properties.
Kitchen:
- Tea towels and dish towels: Linen towels are highly absorbent and dry quickly, making them ideal for kitchen use.
- Oven mitts and pot holders: Linen’s heat resistance makes it a suitable material for oven mitts and pot holders, adding a touch of style to your kitchen essentials.
How does soft linen compare with other natural fabrics?
Of course, different fabrics serve different purposes because they have their own strengths and weaknesses. Linen is not even the only option for the perfect fabric for home essentials. However, among the natural fabrics fit for the Filipino home, Soft linen is slightly better than the other options:
Soft Linen vs. Cotton:
While cotton offers breathability and comfort, it can trap moisture and wrinkle more readily than linen. Additionally, cotton fibers are more susceptible to pilling, reducing the garment’s lifespan.
Soft Linen vs. Silk:
Silk boasts a luxurious feel and breathability; however, it is more delicate and requires special care. Linen provides a similar level of comfort with greater durability and easier maintenance, making it a more practical choice for everyday use.
There is really no competition because Cotton and Silk remain superior in their own textile territories.
Where can I buy high-quality soft linen in the Philippines?
In these pantropiko islands of 7,107, Gold Fortune Textile stands as an established leading supplier in the Philippine textile industry, boasting a comprehensive selection of fabrics, including luxurious soft linen. Beyond the quality of the material itself, Gold Fortune Textile offers several advantages that streamline the sourcing process for businesses with our extensive inventory, competitive pricing, and streamlined customer service.
As BINI puts it, get happier (mas sumaya bawat araw) and lose your worries (mawalan ng pangangamba) meeting the one that makes you feel good and like summer. Bring the Pantropiko energy to your homes with Gold Fortune Textile’s Soft Linen fabrics.