When White Was the Norm

The last time I had white sheets was in my childhood bedroom, when I was about 3 or 4 years old. 

Actually, white was the norm for a lot of things back then.

Does anybody else remember when:

• Nurses wore white?
• Tennis dresses were white?
• Cricket players wore white?
• Players had to wear white, to play lawn bowls?

Then I’m sorry to tell you, but you are definitely middle aged 😉 !

But white fabrics – whether in clothes or bedding – slowly disappeared, probably because they showed every little mark or stain.

As an adult, I have never owned a set of white sheets. We’ve had swirly patterns and florals, and plenty of plains in cream, sage green, coffee, and navy.

So when the good folk at Canningvale offered me a free set of sheets to trial, my choice was easy: I wanted white, and something easy to care for, like the Contento range.

The Pros and Cons of White Sheets

There’s a reason most hotels use white sheets – research has shown that guests consider all white bed linen to be the height of luxury.

There are also other advantages, such as:

• They don’t fade with frequent washing. Have you ever stayed in a holiday unit with a patterned bedspread? Frequent washing means they look shabby and worn in no time, which really lowers the overall tone of the accommodation.
• The fact that while they may get dirty, white sheets can be cleaned to as good as new, with a hot wash and/or bleach to remove any stains. This makes them arguably the most hygienic choice for hotels and the like.
• They fit in with any decor, and are easily replaced should they get stained or wear out, without having to replace all pieces.
• The way that they create an atmosphere of simplicity and relaxation – perfect for when you are away on holidays.

However, I did notice one downside with my own white sheets … one of us dribbles in our sleep (I’m not saying who!) and the pillow case looked grubby after just one night’s use.

The Latest Trend in White Sheets

Forget ironing your white sheets, or the crisp hospital corners of the past – the Contento sheets have a relaxed, lived in look and feel, which is bang on trend. They do look a little more rumpled than what I am used to, but they are so soft, I forgive them 😉 .

I also love that they are made of 100% breathable cotton – perfect for summer (and menopausal me 😉 ).

Over the years I’ve bought sheets at nearly every price point, from Kmart to Bonds, and a luxury brand which I chose at my party plan bridal shower many years ago.

However the softness and comfort of the Contento sheets have been a revelation.  Now I don’t have to go to a hotel to sleep in the lap of luxury – I just climb into my own bed at night!

Do you have white sheets – or do you remember when white was the norm?!

Disclosure: This post features items sent to me for editorial consideration, and I strive for honesty in my reviews.