Linen vs Muslin: Which Summer Fabric Feels Better for Newborns?

Summer with a newborn is all about keeping them cool, dry, and comfortable. Babies can’t handle heat the way older kids do, so the fabric you choose matters more than we often realize. Parents usually hear that linen and muslin are the “breathable fabrics,” but they behave very differently on a baby’s skin. Let’s walk through those differences in a clear, simple way.

What Linen Feels Like on a Baby’s Skin

Linen has a natural coolness that you can feel as soon as you touch it. It’s made from the flax plant, so the fibers breathe on their own without needing any fancy technology. That’s why linen outfits feel airy even on hot afternoons.

The interesting thing about linen is that it starts off slightly textured but gets softer the more you wash it. If you’ve ever had a linen shirt you loved more after six months than on day one, you already know how it behaves.

For babies, linen is great for daytime wear because it keeps them dry. It absorbs moisture quickly, releases it fast, and never sticks to the skin. Parents who live in places with dry heat love linen for this reason.

Where linen usually works best:

• lightweight summer rompers

• day outfits

• crib sheets for hot rooms

• dressier clothes that still feel cool

The only downside is that some newborns with very delicate skin might prefer something softer from the start.

What Muslin Feels Like on a Newborn

Muslin is that soft, airy cotton fabric you see in most swaddles. It’s loosely woven, which gives it that light, cloud-like feel. Babies with heat rashes or sensitive skin usually feel more comfortable in muslin because it never rubs or irritates.

If linen feels like a cool breeze, muslin feels like gentle morning air. It doesn’t try to hold structure. It drapes, moves, and hugs softly. That’s why parents trust it for sleep and layering in the summer.

Where muslin shines:

• swaddles

• burp cloths

• breathable summer onesies

• light sleepwear

• nursing covers

The trade-off is durability. Muslin can stretch with repeated washing and isn’t as tough as linen.

Side-by-Side Look (No Overthinking)