Why do new linen sheets feel scratchy, and does it go away?

This is the single most common complaint across verified-purchase reviewers and Reddit threads on r/Bedding: linen feels stiff and slightly rough out of the package. The consensus is that 3–10 wash cycles transform the hand from coarse to buttery. Stone-washed or pre-washed sets (like ATLINIA and Sijo) start softer but still improve with washing. If you can't tolerate any initial roughness, look specifically for 'stonewashed' on the label.