Fabric comparison
We get asked about linen a lot, since it's another popular warm-weather fabric for babies. Muslin is the loose-weave cotton we use for every Epic piece, and linen comes from the flax plant, so they start from different fibers entirely. Both breathe well in the heat, but the difference shows up in feel and how each one wears over time.
By Vanessa & Bob, Epic in Bali · Updated 8 September 2026
| muslin | linen | |
|---|---|---|
| fibre & construction | Muslin is cotton woven in an open, loose weave, so light passes through it and it feels airy from the first touch. | Linen comes from the flax plant and is usually woven in a tighter, plain weave, giving it a smoother, flatter surface than muslin. |
| breathability | The gaps in muslin's weave let air move through easily, which keeps a baby's skin from overheating in warm rooms. | Linen's fibers let air pass through too, though its tighter weave means a little less airflow than muslin's open structure. |
| weight & feel | Muslin is lightweight and soft against the skin, and it gets softer with every wash. | Linen starts out crisp and can feel stiff on first wear, though it also softens with repeated washing. |
| hot-weather performance | In heat and humidity, muslin dries quickly after washing or a light sweat, so it does not stay damp against the skin for long. | Linen also dries quickly and draws moisture away from the body, which is why it is a classic warm-climate fabric for adults. |
| softness & durability | Muslin's loose weave means it creases easily, which is normal and part of its relaxed character; it stays gentle on skin wash after wash. | Linen wrinkles even more visibly than muslin and is known for lasting a long time when cared for well. |
| best-for | Muslin works well for babies from day one, since good muslin arrives pre-washed and already soft, then keeps softening with use. | Linen can work for babies too, especially in humid climates, but many parents wash it several times first to soften it, or choose a linen-cotton blend for a newborn's first layers. |
Choose muslin if you want a lightweight, breathable baby layer that already feels soft on the first wear and keeps softening with every wash.
Choose linen if you like its heavier, textured feel, don't mind ironing out wrinkles, and are comfortable easing your baby into it over a few washes.