Frequently asked questions
What fabric are the Vintage Linen Pillowcases made from?
The Vintage Linen Pillowcase Pair is 100% linen, woven with a 28 single-metric yarn in both the warp and the weft. That balanced construction produces a fabric that is soft without sacrificing durability. Each pillowcase is garment-washed in MATTEO's dye house using a process that opens and penetrates the fibers, resulting in a lived-in texture that continues to soften with every wash.
Are these linen pillowcases good for hot sleepers or humid climates?
Yes. Linen is naturally moisture-absorbent and breathable, which makes it one of the more practical choices for warm or humid sleeping environments. The fiber regulates temperature in both directions: it pulls heat away when you're warm and retains it when the room is cool. MATTEO's garment-washing process further opens the fibers, which increases airflow through the fabric.
Are the Vintage Linen Pillowcases hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin?
Linen is naturally hypoallergenic and antimicrobial, making these pillowcases a sound choice for people with sensitive skin or allergies. MATTEO dyes the fabric using non-toxic dyes, and the garment-washing process uses no harsh finishing chemicals. There are no synthetic fibers or bleaching agents in the construction.
What sizes are available, and will a Queen pillowcase fit a Standard pillow?
The Vintage Linen Pillowcase Pair is available in Queen (20 x 33 inches / 51 x 84 cm) and King (20 x 39 inches / 51 x 99 cm). MATTEO does not offer a Standard size; a Queen pillowcase works well on a Standard insert and will extend slightly past the edge. That extra length can be tucked in to form an envelope closure, or a seamstress can make a simple alteration for a cleaner fit.
What is the difference between a pillowcase and a pillow sham?
A pillowcase loosely encases the pillow insert and is open on one side, making it easy to slip on and off. A sham is more fitted and uses a closure, such as a flap, zipper, or button, to keep the insert in place. The Vintage Linen Pillowcase Pair uses the open-end pillowcase construction with a minimal 1/4-inch hem; darker colorways add a contrasting white topstitch at that edge for a clean finish.
How do I wash and care for the Vintage Linen Pillowcases?
Wash light and dark colors separately in a lukewarm cycle with a gentle detergent and a cool rinse. Do not use bleach or any products containing whitening agents such as chlorine bleach, alpha hydroxy acids, or benzoyl peroxide, as the reactive garment dyes are not resistant to these. Tumble dry on low heat and remove promptly to reduce wrinkling; line drying gives the best result. If you prefer a crisper look, press the pillowcases while slightly damp on the linen or high iron setting. Learn more about MATTEO's garment-dyeing process.
Do the Vintage Linen Pillowcases get softer over time?
Yes. Linen derived from the flax plant is known for softening with repeated washing and use, unlike cotton fabrics that can degrade in hand feel over the same period. MATTEO accelerates that process through a proprietary washing treatment in the dye house that pre-softens each fiber before the pillowcase reaches you. The result is a fabric that starts with a lived-in texture and continues to improve with age.
Do the Vintage Linen Pillowcases coordinate with other MATTEO bedding?
The Vintage Linen Pillowcase Pair is part of MATTEO's Vintage Linen collection, which includes sheet sets, duvet covers, and shams woven from the same 28 single-metric yarn and dyed in the same colorways. Mixing within the collection produces a consistent hand feel and dye-lot harmony across the bed. Because garment-dyeing involves a natural shade variation of plus or minus 10% between dye lots, MATTEO recommends purchasing coordinating pieces at the same time when an exact color match is important.
