If you just bought linen sheets for the first time, you might have a few questions about how to care for them. We're here to help - we've rounded up some of our most frequently asked questions about using and caring for your linen sheets, and answered them in this helpful guide. With the proper care, you can sleep on and enjoy your linen sheets for years to come.
Yes! This is not cause for any concern. Some shedding is a completely normal and natural occurrence when you're washing your linen sheets for the first time. In fact, all sheets made from natural fibres will shed during the first few washes, although it's more noticeable with linen (especially if you've bought a darker colour).
So why does this happen? In short - linen fabric is made with hearty fibres derived by the stems of the flax plant - one of the oldest cultivated plants in history. When these fibres are woven together, they result in a strong, durable fabric that's also breathable and naturally sustainable.
While this process results in high-quality sheets that will last for a long time, it also means that any shedding or pilling will be a lot more noticeable. If any small lint balls that remain on the sheets bother you, simply remove them with a fabric shaver or lint roller.
Firstly, embrace that some shedding is part of the natural lifecycle of your sheets, and is to be expected for the first few washes. This is part of the process, and the more your linen sheets are washed, the softer they'll become. However, there are some steps you can take to minimize the initial amount of shedding.
For the first few washes, make sure you're washing your linen sheets in cold or tepid water (never hot water), as heat can exacerbate shedding. Adding a 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar to the rinse cycle can help, as vinegar is a natural softener and clarifier and will help the fabric to shed any clingy or lingering fibres.
We always recommend washing linen bedding on its own. Washing with other fabrics can cause friction on the fabric, which can lead to an increase in pilling and/or shedding.
We always recommend washing your sheets in cold or tepid water, with a gentle detergent (Ivory, Sunlight, and Le Blanc are all great options, while Tide is notoriously harsh on natural fabrics). Avoid overloading the washing machine and opt for a longer, slower spin cycle to prevent tangling and wrinkles.
Avoid any unnecessary additives to your laundry cycle, such as bleaches and fabric softeners, all of which can damage natural fibres and contribute to shedding, as well as a host of other issues.
We typically don't recommend washing linen sheets in hot water. High heat can damage linen fibres, causing them to shrink and weaken, reducing their lifespan. Stick to washing in cold or tepid water to preserve linen fibres.
If you typically like to wash your sheets in hot water for stain removal, try spot-cleaning rather than washing everything in hot water. We always recommend pre-treating sheets with a gentle stain remover to eliminate stains.
If possible, we always recommend air-drying linen sheets to preserve their integrity and increase their lifespan. However, we recognize that it's not always possible to find the time or space to air dry.
If you do use the dryer, adjust your settings to the air dry cycle (and always use an empty lint trap, which can help to catch any shedding fibres). Heat is abrasive and can damage the fibres of your linen sheets, which will result in an excess of linting/shedding and can shorten the lifespan of your linens.
YES! Nothing is wrong with your sheets - linen is supposed to be wrinkly! This is one of our most frequently asked questions, and we always encourage our customers to embrace the wrinkles.
In their natural state, linen sheets will always be wrinkled - it's part of their relaxed charm. The only sheets that are naturally wrinkle-free are made from polyester or treated with harsh chemicals. The presence of wrinkles means that your fabric is made from natural fibres - so wear them with pride!
One tip for helping your sheets to dry smoothly: put them on your bed slightly damp, and smooth wrinkles out with your hands. You'll be shocked at how smooth they can dry this way.
For any remaining stubborn wrinkles, we have a foolproof tip that we use in our store and at photo shoots: spray them with water from a water mister. When the fabric is damp, smooth it out with your hands - the wrinkles will disappear! Works like magic.
In conclusion, we hope that you found these tips helpful when caring for your new linen sheets. By understanding linen's natural characteristics and life cycle (and sticking to proper washing and care guidelines!), your linen sheets can be used and enjoyed for years to come. We hope your enjoy the many years of temperature-regulating sleep they bring you!
Here's the good news: you don't need to spend all of your time (or paycheck) at fancy wellness retreats to get the same restful, spa-like feeling. By making a few simple updates to your bathroom at home, you can transform your space into your own peaceful oasis to escape the stress of everyday life.
Don't worry, you won't have to invest in a full-scale remodel to create the relaxing retreat of your dreams. By incorporating a few simple elements - like spa-inspired towels, robes, and home decor accessories - you can transform any space into your own calming haven. Follow along as we highlight the five essential pieces you'll need to create your own spa-like sanctuary.
The one thing every luxury spa has in common? An abundance of plush, cozy towels in easy reach, either folded or rolled.
To create that zen, spa-like atmosphere, remove your old, mismatched towels and swap in a set of high-quality, luxurious towels in a cohesive colour scheme. There's no better investment than good towels; with proper care, they'll last for years (even with everyday use) and look beautiful enough to display.
If you want to invest in high-quality towels that will last, look for ones crafted from premium natural materials like 100% long-staple cotton. These will be the most durable, and will last for years while maintaining their absorption.
If you like the feeling of thick, plush towels on your skin, our bestselling Au Lit Luxe Towels are hotel-quality towels with large loops, and are incredibly absorbent. Made in Portugal from 100% long-staple cotton, they come in a variety of soothing spa-like tones. They're perfect for giving your bathroom that boutique hotel-feel.
For those who prefer a more lightweight towel, we always recommend the Portofino Micro-Cotton Towels. A lighter and thinner option than the Au Lit Luxe, this fast-drying towel offers incredible absorption while still being cozy. Spun from super-soft micro cotton and made in Portugal.
While spas typically use white towels, this does NOT mean that you need them to get the spa look! Think outside the box, and consider a colour scheme that suits your unique taste and your bathroom decor style.
To create a calming, soothing experience, we love using earth toned-towels that bring the feeling of the outside in - think of the soft blue of the sky, warm sand, or earthy green of plants. Incorporating a peaceful, natural colour palette will allow your senses to relax.
If you're looking to create a truly custom experience for your bathroom, we can help. Not only are our Abyss Super Pile Towels an ultra-luxurious hotel-style towel, they're also able to be custom ordered in your choice of 50 shades! Made from the highest quality 100% Giza Egyptian cotton available on the market, these luxurious towels are incredibly soft and fluffy.
Did you know that there are two towel sizes options for drying off your body? While they ultimately perform the same function, the size that you choose is purely personal preference.
The term bath sheet refers to an extra-large, generously-sized towel that you use to dry your body (our Au Lit Luxe bath sheets measure in at 38" x 60"). If you love to be extra-warm and cozy after a shower or are on the taller side, you'll love drying off with the extra fabric a bath sheet provides. Many hotels and spas stock their bathrooms with bath sheets for the ultimate luxurious experience.
Bath towels are the smaller in size of the two options (our Au Lit Luxe bath towels are sized at 28" x 55"). Their more compact size means that they can dry you off more quickly, and they're lighter in weight and easier to hang. They're much easier to handle and their smaller size is more multifunctional for things like drying your hair.
Now that you've decided which towel type and size is right for your bathroom, you can decide how you'd like to store them. While spas typically keep rows of neatly-lined towels at hand, we also love the option of hanging or rolling them.
Textured towels are a great option for those who love to use towels as a design detail in their bathroom. Our Washed Cotton-Bamboo Waffle Towels feature a unique loose waffle texture and fringe detail that's equally as beautiful to look at as it is functional.
One element you might be overlooking? A great bath mat. More than just a practical piece that keeps your floor from getting too wet, a bath mat adds warmth and coziness to your bathroom and provides comfort for your feet (especially during the cold winter months!).
Soften your space with a bathroom rug made from super-soft, natural fibres. Our Habidecor Reversible Rug is made from humidity-friendly 100% cotton and is nice and comfy for your feet. We love that it comes in six serene and spa-inspired shades.
A must-have for every home spa? A soft and comfy spa robe. The most comfortable - and long-lasting - robes are made from 100% natural fibres, like cotton or linen. Look for one that's easy to launder and care for, especially if you love to unwind with often-messy face or hair masks.
Our Organic Cotton Terry Robe is the ultimate spa robe, made from 100% pure organic cotton terry. Plush and indulgent, lounging in this cozy and luxurious robe is the next best thing to actually being at the spa.
If you prefer a robe that's more lightweight, our Spa White Waffle Robe is a modern take on the classic spa robe. This robe features a unique washed waffle texture that's breathable but still manages to feel cozy and warm.
Luxury spas and hotels have long utilized the power of scent to evoke emotion and memory association. Scents aren't just for making a space smell pretty - they're that extra component needed to truly transport your space.
Look for bath products with scents that induce a feeling of calmness and relaxation, to help you unwind after the longest of days. Bergamot is believed to reduce anxiety and increase feelings of peacefulness. Our Paloma Bergamot Linen Candle smells heavenly, and the organic clay vessel it comes in makes a beautiful accessory for your bathroom.
If candles aren't your thing, try a diffuser. It distributes essential oil throughout the air, giving your bathroom a subtle ambience. Our Calm White Flower Diffuser is an elegant decor piece and uses natural essential oil.
If you have a freestanding shower, your shower curtain can take up a sizeable chunk of visual real estate in your bathroom. Create a blank canvas that's soothing to your eyes with a simple, minimal shower curtain in a soothing neutral tone.
Our Small Waffle Shower Curtain offers a spa-like feel and is easy to care for and maintain.
Like this post? Read our Between the Sheets blog for more bedding and bath tips and inspiration.
]]>Every year, the Au Lit team spends months planning out the store window for our midtown Toronto shop on Yonge St. We love coming up with creative new colour schemes and dreaming up every element, from the large-scale bedding to the tiny accents. Our goal is to create a scene that radiates the warmth, joy and happiness of the season.
This year has been extra special, because it's the first year we're decorating two stores instead of one. We opened our second location on Tycos Drive in the Castlefield Design District over the summer, and we've loved adding all of our classic festive touches to our new space.
Join us below on a tour of both stores, both Yonge and Tycos. Our shelves are stocked with beautifully wrapped gifts, whimsical holiday pyjamas, the coziest chunky knit blankets, and stocking stuffers galore. We hope this tour inspires you to feel the same holiday magic that we do.
An elegant blue, white, and silver colour scheme sets the stage for our holiday window.
Comfy robes make the perfect gift for everyone on your list.
We can't get enough cozy, chunky knit blankets for every room of the house.
The official Au Lit x Province of Canada bed, all set up on our shop floor.
These 90's inspired plaid flannel throw pillows make the perfect festive-ish accessory (without being too theme-y).
Beautiful bath products, super soft pyjamas, and luxe cashmere robes are perfect for adding under the tree.
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If there's anyone who's known for giving a great gift, it's our CEO, Joanna Goodman. When thinking about our holiday shopping, we couldn't help but wonder... what is Joanna giving this year? We had to find out what she had her eye on - and surprise surprise, we want it ALL. Take a peek below at our CEO's favourite pieces she's gifting this year.
"My very favourite piece to give this year. I created this robe in honour of my mom Peggy, who passed away in 2014 from breast cancer. Peggy was the founder of Au Lit, and this soft pale pink was her favourite colour. 100% of the proceeds from this robe go to The Canadian Cancer Society in honour of Peggy."
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"Everyone on my list this year is receiving a pair of plaid pyjamas from our holiday collaboration with Province of Canada. When we first started talking about a collaboration, we knew we wanted to create the perfect plaid pyjama. We looked back into the Au Lit archives and took inspiration from our bestselling collection from the 80's: a classic plaid tartan. Unlike every other plaid pyjama on the market, ours are crafted from the coziest 100% Japanese cotton flannel, and they're made right here in Canada."
"One of my favourite parts of my job is travelling around the world, searching for new and unique home decor pieces for the store. I couldn't believe it when I found these incredible candles locally, in Guelph, Ontario. They have the most incredible scent, familiar but so luxurious, and I love that they're made from 100% soy. They're a fantastic price point, too."
"This diffuser makes the perfect gift for the hostess, for teachers, for moms... really, for anyone. Not only is does this oil diffuser make an elegant piece of decor, but it smells absolutely exquisite."
"The most unexpected, yet foolproof gift. Everyone loves new sheets, especially in this cozy, sumptuous flannel. We offer seven different colours of our flannel sheet bundles, including this fun holiday red. Made in Canada, and guaranteed to surprise and delight even the pickiest person on your list."
"If there's someone in your life that loves to travel, this is the best gift in the world. This 100% pure goose down travel pillow is lightweight and portable, and combined with this silk sleep mask, the only way to sleep comfortably on a plane. These two pieces are the only reason I can sleep when I'm out on the road."
"So so cozy! These long 100% cashmere robes are at the top of my list, year after year - especially in my favourite colour, blue. Super soft, so luxurious, and warm enough to keep you toasty all winter long."
"Never underestimate the fact that people love towels! Nice towels are something that people truly appreciate, but rarely buy for themselves. Our Au Lit Luxe Towels are fluffy and plush, and I love this soft Skylight colour in my own bathroom. Tie a ribbon around this all-in-one bundle and put it under the tree, knowing that you've given the perfect gift."
"I've discovered that no matter what someone's style is, they can't resist these super-soft baby alpaca throws. The check pattern is classic enough to enjoy year after year, and they're an essential for snuggling up on the couch all winter long. They come in four beautiful neutral colours to suit every decor style."
"I created this grunge-inspired pillow collection as an homage to the iconic plaid flannel shirt of the 90's. Made with 100% cotton Japanese flannel, these cozy pillows will transform your bed or sofa for winter."
"A flagship store of this size and scope was always my mother’s dream. This new space gives us the opportunity to expand on our entire product offering, and also to be able to showcase so many more collections in beautiful bedroom settings."
– Joanna Goodman, CEO and owner of Au Lit Fine Linens
The new Au Lit Fine Linens in the Design District will open its doors in August, with a grand opening event at the end of September. (For those who prefer to shop midtown, our Yonge Street shop isn't going anywhere!)
For more information about the brand, its collections and the new store, follow us on social media.
To join our sales team, please email your resume to della@aulitfinelinens.com
]]>Not to be confused with feather, which is a stiffer material with sharp quills, goose down is the light, fluffy, and soft under plumage that keep geese warm and dry. It is breathable, moisture-wicking, and super lightweight, which makes sleeping under a down duvet the ultimate sleep experience. As one customer put it:
"If I had to choose between giving up chocolate or my goose down duvet I would sadly say goodbye to chocolate. It would be an easy choice."
If you've never curled up with a goose down duvet before, you might not know quite what to expect. We've compiled a list of answers to common questions we receive from clients about their new down duvets. Trust us: once you've slept with a pure down duvet, you'll never look back!
1. Re-lofting your Duvet
You've just removed your brand-new duvet from its package and spread it out on the bed. Instead of a sumptuous, fluffy cloud, your duvet is looking a little... flat. This is a common concern, but it is absolutely nothing to worry about! Your down duvet has been folded and compressed in its packaging for some time, meaning those fluffy down clusters have been flattened and compressed. They will require some time to "re-loft" and fluff back up to their regular size.
To help re-loft your duvet, lay it out flat and then gently fluff it. This should be done daily to provide air circulation among the down clusters, which will help bring them back to optimum fluffiness. Be patient! It may take a week or two before the duvet reaches its full lofting potential, but you will notice more and more puff as the days go on.
Know Your Loft: Goose down is graded by loft, which is also referred to as fill power or insulating capacity, and refers to the size of the individual down clusters. The larger the down clusters, the higher the loft value, and the better the down is at insulating per ounce. This means you need less ounces of higher loft goose down to achieve warmth. In short: higher-loft down duvets will lay flatter and sleeker with a more modern appearance because they require less physical fill to achieve warmth.
2. Adapting to your Down Duvet
If you've never slept with a goose down duvet before, your body can take some time to adapt. Down is much more breathable than synthetic fill and much lighter in weight than silk, so there may be an adjustment period. Down adapts to your body's temperature so it's not too hot in the summer, yet will keep you warm in the winter. With that said, don't be alarmed if the warmth level of your duvet isn't quite perfect at first! It may just be your body adjusting.
3. Keeping your Duvet Fresh and Fluffy
Always use your duvet within a clean duvet cover. Don't make a habit of sitting or laying on top of the duvet, as this can break the down clusters, making them less fluffy and insulating than they would be otherwise. The same goes for pets! Make sure they're not sleeping or nesting on top of the duvet, as little paws and claws can do damage.
Fluffing your duvet should be done daily so the down fill re-distributes within each baffle box. This will also help keep your duvet evenly distributed within the cover.
It may surprise you to learn that your down duvet needs to be washed rarely (if ever!). So long as it is in proper use within a clean duvet cover at all times your duvet will remain clean and fresh. Should any spills or stains occur, we recommend either spot cleaning your duvet or outsourcing to a professional launderer who specializes in down-filled products. Do not wash at home, as you run the risk of damaging the duvet.
4. Be confident in the quality of your purchase
All our down duvets are proudly made in Canada and come with a 10-year guarantee* against manufacturing flaws or defects. They are Downmark® Certified. Downmark® certification is a globally recognized symbol of quality and is only granted to authentic down or feather products that are finished in Canada. It is always important when shopping for down-filled products to look for something Downmark® Certified, since this guarantees that the fill is as stated and ensures the fill is ethically sourced.
And there you have it - everything you can expect from your new soft & cozy goose down duvet. Now that you're armed with the know-how and confidence to enjoy your duvet, you can reap the lasting benefits of a great night's sleep for years to come!
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Just like Au Lit, our Italian Mill is a family-run business with a rich history. The family's tradition in the textile industry dates all the way back to 1891, when the family began work in an Italian textile district known for the production of woollen cloths. With years of experience under their belts, the family founded their very own textile mill in 1947 with a focus on wool goods. By 1960, production was expanded to include cotton and linen textiles in addition to wool. The mill continued to innovate through the 1970s, when they began producing jacquard fabrics and started to make a name for themselves with the production of home linens.
Our relationship with our partner mill began in the early 1980s, when our founder Peggy Byron flew to Italy in search of the best bedding fabrics in the world. She met with the family-run mill outside of Milan and ordered her first 100 meters of pure cotton sateen in a colour called sage green. While the colour has since been discontinued, the relationship remains. Nearly 4 decades later, we work with the very same team Peggy originally met with to produce thousands of meters a year of our bestselling Italian fabrics. The raw fabric is imported and our finished pieces proudly crafted right here in Canada at our Montreal workroom.
The Au Lit team meets with our Italian partners c. 1990s
Our CEO Joanna had the pleasure of paying a visit to the mill this winter and was warmly welcomed by Gianpietro, the original representative Peggy met with nearly 40 years ago. From a tour of the mill to a spectacular Italian lunch graciously hosted by the team, it was thrilling to come together and reflect on how our businesses have grown together over the past 4 decades.
Our partner mill has long been committed to producing the most exceptional fabrics in the world. From the careful selection of the finest natural raw materials to a long tradition of textile weaving combined with the adoption of advanced textile technologies & a keen focus on sustainable practices, our mill has achieved an exquisite balance of tradition and innovation over 70+ years in business and we are proud to continue working with them to this day.
Finished fabric is stress-tested and palleted for transport
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Our ideal candidates are warm, personable and kind, enjoy a busy, fast-paced store, and have a passion for home decor and selling luxury products. You know and appreciate quality and you understand the importance of relationship building.
Our sales associate can:
Qualifications:
We offer competitive salary, bonus + benefits.
Please email a cover letter telling us about yourself and resume to: della@aulitfinelinens.com.
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When it comes to towel care, there are a few key questions we seem to get over and over:
"How do I properly wash & dry my towels?"
"How can I whiten and brighten dingy or discoloured towels?"
"Why are my towels losing their absorbency?!"
"How long will my towels last?"
This week we're diving into Towel Care 101 so you can get the most out of your investment. Read on for detailed care instructions and a host of tips & tricks for keeping your towels in top shape!
Washing
Drying
Whitening & Maintenance
Longevity
Lint
New towels (especially plusher towels and those that are not pre-washed) will shed a certain amount of lint during the first few wash/dry cycles. This is completely normal! Linting will reduce significantly after a handful of washes. We recommend a low-heat dryer cycle with an empty lint trap to help expedite the de-linting process.
]]>"Beloved, thou hast brought me many flowers, plucked in the garden, all the summer through..." Elizabeth Barrett Browning
No offense to Christmas, but this could be the most wonderful time of the year. The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and the warm breeze floating through the streets can only mean one thing: summer is almost here!
Our visual merchandisers have been dreaming up our summer window for months, and we're so proud to unveil it this long weekend. A palette of blush pink, soft grey, and charcoal are contrasted against a vintage watercolour floral background. Layers of textures complete the look: fluffy llama cushions, chunky knit throws, soft velvet pillows.
What do you think of our summer window? We would love to hear!
Shop the Summer Collection here.
Shop the Anatolia Linen Kilim Cushion here.
Shop the Belgian Laguna Verde Throw here.
Shop 100% Cotton PJ Set White/Navy here.
Shop Au Lit x Suzanne Dimma Shanghai Garden Ecru Deco Pillows here.
Shop the Llama Blush Cushion here.
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This travel throw is one of our most loved and gifted products, and we can see why! Crafted from pure white duck down and made right here in Canada, this portable duvet is a compact way to make every plane ride or hotel stay more comfortable. Many of our customers prefer to use this duvet in place of the standard hotel duvet. Easily packable in their suitcase or carry-on and comes with a washable cover in pure, natural cotton.
Getting decent sleep on a plane can be downright impossible. The key to blocking out all overhead lights, bright screens, and constant movement? Try the total darkness of eye mask. Our Silk Sleep Masks are filled with a calming blend of lavender and flaxseed to help promote sleep, and are lightly weighted for a soothing effect. Plus, pure silk is naturally anti-bacterial - perfect for protecting their eyes during a long flight.
The easiest way to look stylish and be insanely comfortable. Made from a super-soft, sustainable blend of bamboo/cotton French Terry (and sewn right here in Toronto!) these luxurious sweats feature a modern, stylish fit. Throw a leather jacket or wool coat on top and no one will realize you're essentially in your pjs! Plus, you can mix and match the Cuff Lounge Pant or Sweatshirt with other pieces once you've reached your destination.
Say goodbye to those annoying, useless neck pillows. Our portable Travel Pillow is exactly what they need to get a comfortable night's sleep, whether it be on a plane, in a hotel room, or simply staying as a guest in someone's house. Made right here in Canada and filled with premium white goose down.
If there's one essential to have on hand during every journey (big or small), it's hand sanitizer. Our Apotheke Clean Hand Gels come in a variety of fresh, modern scents that they'll actually like to smell, and extras can easily be tossed in their suitcase or travel bag. Plus, at 1.5 oz each they're a safe size for air travel.
If there was ever a gift that was the perfect blend of function and fashion, this throw would be it! Crafted from pure Italian cashmere and lambswool, this Juno Cashmere Throw is lightweight enough to be folded up in a carry-on bag, yet warm enough to cuddle up under during chilly flights.
The ultimate essential all-in-one gift for your favourite jet-setter, all wrapped up in one package. Our Luxe Travel Kit includes everything they need to stay clean and comfortable, making every place they stay truly feel like home.
]]>Every dog owner knows the value of a cute pair of pyjamas. A wardrobe staple for early morning walks around the block or cuddling with your pup on the couch, these flannel pjs will keep them warm and cozy in style. Plus, they feature dogs wearing sneakers? Enough said.
If they value function AND fashion, this throw blanket is the ultimate essential for dog owners. Lined with ultra-warm fleece, it's perfect for keeping in the back of the car for long rides with their pup, or to use as a liner for their crate during air travel. Plus - it's machine washable!
Playing with your dog at the dog park is fun, but the dirty mess on your hands after leaving the dog park is not. This hand sanitizer is a must-have that they'll use over and over again.
Every dog owner knows it's not a good idea to share towels with your dog. No matter how frequently you wash them, they tend to develop a distinct pet odour over time. We have the perfect solution for never mixing up your towels again - monogrammed towels! Our Au Lit Luxe towels can be embroidered with their dog's initial, in the font style and colour of your choice. Plus, these towels are thick, plush and absorbent - perfect for drying muddy paws.
Apotheke Amber Woods Candle - $59
Seems counterintuitive that a freshly bathed dog can stink so much, but they really, really do. Banish that wet dog smell with our Apotheke Amber Woods Candle, with notes of warm amber wood, sweet lily of the valley, and night-blooming jasmine.
No more changing from comfy lounge pants into "real" pants for dog walks - these pants do it all. Made in Canada from the softest blend of bamboo/cotton French Terry.
If they have an older dog with arthritis and joint pain, sometimes the best gift you can give is the gift of comfort. Many dog beds don't offer optimal orthopaedic support for older dogs, and it can be tough for them to get up and down with ease. Placing a few sleeping pillows on the floor can help ease their joint pain and provide support. Our Jasper Micro-Fibre Pillows are made right here in Canada can be fitted with regular pillowcases for easy cleaning.
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Let's jump back in time to 1981, the year Peggy Byron opened Au Lit Fine Linens in Montreal, one of the first bed linen shops in Canada to offer quality, pure cotton sheets in a market saturated with polyester. The boutique was an instant success and our mission has been unwavering from the start: to change the way people sleep.
That very same year, Ann & Sam Nielsen founded Once A Tree Furniture in Vancouver, a shop dedicated to enhancing people's lives by offering unique, quality homewares. Once A Tree Furniture quickly became a premier furniture destination on the West Coast and remains so today.
Forty years in, both Au Lit and Once a Tree are owned and operated by their founders' daughters, Joanna at Au Lit Fine Linens and Daphne at Once A Tree. Separated by over 4,000 KMs, it seemed unlikely the two would ever meet, but fate always finds a way.
This summer Joanna visited Vancouver with a purpose: how can we bring Au Lit Fine Linens out West? Over a series of conversations, one potential partner came up again and again: Once A Tree Furniture. Through sheer serendipity, it turns out Once A Tree was in search of quality bedding to outfit the 16 stunning beds on their showroom floor, and a meeting was set to explore the possibilities.
Joanna and Daphne sat down for a meet-and-greet and instantly clicked, two women running successful home furnishing companies, both celebrating 40 years in business, both focused on quality above all else and both proudly Canadian. The parallels were remarkable and what started out as a conversation around outfitting the display beds at Once A Tree quickly evolved into something bigger - Au Lit's very first pop-up shop in Vancouver. It was a match made in Canada.
With our brands fully aligned, both teams have been working tirelessly to create an incredible Au Lit experience at Once A Tree Furniture, and we are beyond thrilled to see our efforts finally come to fruition. Our linens are on display throughout Once A Tree's expansive 10,000+ sq. foot showroom, featuring a curated assortment of our exclusive, Canadian and European-made bed linens. Our all-natural bedding integrates seamlessly with Once A Tree's exceptional quality furniture, while an immersive Au Lit Fine Linens showcase on the main floor tells the Au Lit story and highlights our core collections, which are on sale for cash and carry.
The pop-up is open now until November 30th at Once A Tree Furniture (750 SW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6P 5Y5). Once A Tree is open 10am-5:30pm Monday-Saturday with the opportunity to shop by appointment by calling Once A Tree at 604-324-2126 or e-mailing info@onceatreefurniture.com.
To celebrate the grand opening of the Au Lit x Once A Tree Pop-Up we are hosting a giveaway! Visit @aulitfinelinens and @onceatreefurniture on Instagram for your chance to win a set of our bestselling Essential 3-Line Percale.
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More than ever, the shift to an organic lifestyle is gaining popularity. We've all heard about the harmful toxic chemicals in the everyday items we buy, and companies have been making the shift to support our desire for conscious, sustainable choices. But what about bedding? Today we're breaking down the world of organic bedding for you - and you might be surprised!
First of all, the term "organic bedding" is a term that can be confusing and misleading. When you're buying mass-marketed sheets and you notice that the package is labelled "organic", that doesn't necessarily mean that the product is safe from harmful chemicals. A large majority of the time, this simply means that the manufacturer has woven their sheets using organically-grown cotton. While this is definitely a more sustainable option, this doesn't take into consideration any processes that take place after the sheets are woven.
Bedding labelled as "organic" can still be dyed using dyes containing heavy metals, toxic inks, or even bleached using harmful bleaches. It can also be synthetically treated with harsh chemicals - for example, companies may treat their sheets with formaldehyde to achieve a "wrinkle-free" look. When manufacturers label their sheets as "organic", they're not required to disclose any details about how the sheets were produced, only about their fabric content.
So, if the term organic doesn't give the full picture, what should you be looking for when it comes to all-natural sheets?
For starters, check out the sheet packaging the same way you would inspect a box at the grocery store. The number one thing to look for is fibre content - or, the type of fabric. Sheets made from cotton, linen, or bamboo fibres will always be the most natural and sustainable. They're breathable, absorbent, naturally hypo-allergenic, and durable enough to last years.
Second, check out the features of the sheets. Are they "wrinkle-free"? If so, that means they've been processed with synthetic chemicals to achieve that finish. What about the colour of the sheets? If sensitive skin is your #1 issue, you may want to look for sheets that have been dyed using natural dyes. Also, be weary of polyester-blended sheets labelled "moisture-wicking". Polyester is a man-made fiber made from petroleum-based products, is not breathable, and not sustainable. Cotton and linen are both naturally moisture-wicking while also being biodegradable.
Above all, do your research regarding production processes and certifications! Oeko-Tex in particular is a renowned global network of independent research and test institutes in Europe and Japan. Established in 1982, they are the most reliable and trustworthy authority in the world when it comes to textile safety. The Oeko-Tex 100 Seal is only given to mills & textiles that are confirmed free from over 100 known or suspected harmful chemicals, and ensure that no pesticides are used during the manufacturing process. Companies that are Oeko-Tex certified ensure that their product is rigorously tested and must pass routine quality audits in the Association's 18 independent testing laboratories.
All of our bedding here at Au Lit is made from the world's best 100% natural fibres, from cotton to linen to bamboo. The European mills that weave our fabrics are proudly Oeko-Tex certified, and no pesticides, chemicals, or synthetics are used in the production process. So if you're looking for a natural, sustainable option for your bedding, you can sleep easy in our sheets.
Zen Organic 210 Thread Count Percale
If you're specifically in the market for organic bedding, we're delighted to introduce our new Zen Organic 210 Thread Count Percale Collection. The Zen Organic Collection is made up of 100% long-staple cotton grown from non-genetically modified (GMO) seeds, and without the use of any synthetic agricultural chemicals, such as fertilizers or pesticides. This collection is woven in Italy at an Oeko-Tex certified mill (read: rigorously tested against any harmful substances, as with all of our linens). It's cool, crisp, and designed to last for years - softening with each wash. The Zen Organic 210 Collection is available as part of a bundle, or sold individually.
Zen Organic 210 Thread Count Percale Bundle
If you're looking to make the switch to a more organic home, a good place to start is replacing some of your common household products with natural versions. One of the easiest changes - swapping out your dryer sheets! Our new Eco-Friendly Alpaca Dryer Balls are a natural and sustainable alternative to your never-ending supply of toxic dryer sheets. Ethically-made and eco-friendly, these alpaca balls are handmade in a rural Peruvian village, where they're felted one-by-one by a female cooperative of skilled artisans. You can take a closer look here.
]]>We are THRILLED to have re-opened our doors! We can't wait to welcome you back with (socially distanced) open arms for the in-person shopping experience we've all missed!
As always, the health and safety of our clients and staff is our top priority. To make your shopping experience safe, we've created a protocol so you can shop with peace of mind!
We have resumed our regular shopping hours:
Monday - Saturday: 10 am - 6 pm
Sunday: 12 pm - 5 pm
If you have any questions regarding our health & safety measures, please feel free to contact us anytime at info@aulitfinelinens.com or 1-800-363-6080 with your concerns.
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Do you struggle with finding the ideal temperature for sleep during the summer? Especially with an air conditioner or fan running all night, it can be too warm for a duvet but too cold to sleep with just a sheet. Not to worry - we have the perfect solution for you! We've rounded up three great suggestions that will help you get decent shut-eye on even the warmest of nights.
If you're a summer sleeper that loves the feeling of a duvet on your body at night but can't stand the heat, our Au Lit Super Thin Loft 100% Down Duvet is the perfect option for you.
Also known as "The Hot Sleeper", this extremely thin and lightweight duvet is filled with a small amount of pure goose down (which actually regulates to your body's temperature, helping to keep you cool at night). This option will give you the coverage you need while maintaining a featherlight feel on your body.
One added bonus: it can be used with your existing duvet cover, adding some fluffy comfort to your bed.
Shop our Au Lit Super Thin Loft (Hot Sleeper) 100% Down Duvet here.
Au Lit Super Thin Loft (Hot Sleeper) 100% Down Duvet
If you love the idea of a down duvet but still find it too heavy for the summer, we think you'll love our Down Blanket. Just like a duvet, a down blanket is down with a small amount of down fibres enclosed within the layers of the blanket.
We recommend our Down Blanket, filled with 100% pure white duck down. Sewn in a stylish baffle box pattern, a duvet cover isn't needed - perfect for keeping you cool all night long!
Shop our Down Blanket (White) here.
If you're someone who values function and style, a cotton coverlet or blanket is your perfect go-to. The coverlet does double-duty all year long in the bedroom: it acts as a light blanket in the summer (perfect for warm sleepers), and a decorative accent piece in the colder winter months (we love folding it at the foot of the bed, hotel-style).
Not only are they breathable and washable, but they're available in a variety of colours, textures, weights, and sizes to match any bedroom decor.
Looking for inspiration? Check out our entire selection of Coverlets & Blankets for find the perfect one for you.
Easy Living 100% Cotton Blanket
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Frustrated with the lack of quality sheet options available in her hometown of Montreal, Canada, 39-year-old Peggy Byron decides to open her first store on Rue St. Denis. She calls it Boutique Au Lit, and offers only pure cotton sheets from Europe as an alternative to the treated polyester sheets that had saturated the market to that point.The days and nights are long as a sole entrepreneur and single mother to her daughter Joanna, but Peggy perseveres, confident that others will be as passionate about good cotton sheets as she is.
With her retail store booming, Peggy decides to create her own line of sheets. She flies to her first trade show in Italy and orders a few hundred meters of fabric and some lace from Switzerland. Back home, she rents a large warehouse and hires some sewers, confident she’ll figure out how to oversee a factory of sewers and operate a wholesale business. While many other companies have transitioned their manufacturing overseas, we are proud to still make everything right here in Canada (and we still employ two of Peggy’s original sewers!)
Our original factory in Montreal
Our very first team of sewers
After more than a decade of success in Montreal, Peggy embarks on a big move: she and her daughter, Joanna, head west to Toronto and open a brand new retail store on Mt. Pleasant Road. The new store, which they call Au Lit Fine Linens, becomes a bedding hotspot in North Toronto. To celebrate the grand opening in Toronto, Peggy decides to rebrand her favourite signature sheets, and her bestselling 220 Thread Count Cotton Percale collection becomes the iconic Hotel Collection. The Hotel sheets go on to become Au Lit's top seller for the next 25 years (now known as our bestselling Essential 220 TC Percale!)
With business thriving, Peggy and Joanna decide to open an even bigger store with a much broader product offering. They move to a beautiful new location: a 6,000 square foot, two-level space on Toronto's famed Yonge Street & Manor Road (the current location of our flagship store). They expand their line to include bath and towels, bedroom furniture, lighting, accessories, and loungewear.
This is a big year of transition for Au Lit, with many branding and marketing initiatives launched that still remain our core focus today. Our iconic Thread Count Bar is created, where customers can feel the difference between our range of 220-1030 thread count sheets; we create our company's mission and slogan (“We change the way you sleep"), and we launch our revolutionary new line of pre-washed linen sheets called The Lavato Collection (once again, ahead of the curve in bedding trends).
With the encouragement and vision of two long-time millennial employees, Au Lit steps into the world of e-commerce and we launch our website. After spending a decade and a half serving the local Toronto market, we're thrilled to expand our customer base into all of Canada and the US. AuLitfinelinens.com is born.
After a long battle with breast cancer, Peggy passes away and her daughter, Joanna, and son-in-law, Miguel, officially take over, carrying on their mother's passion and legacy.
Our 39th year in business is the most challenging of our entire history, as we navigate and pivot our way through the global pandemic. In March, our flagship store is closed as part of a province-wide lockdown, and remains closed off and on well into the spring of 2021. (We’re still closed!) Joanna makes an important decision to continue bringing in new product offerings, but with travel and trade-shows off the table, she creates her own collection for the times: The Easy Living Collection, a line of pre-washed fabrics made of 100% natural fibres at phenomenal prices, which targets a new, younger market.
Au Lit celebrates 40 years in business! This anniversary is one of both reflection and forward-thinking, an opportunity to celebrate how far we’ve come and map out our vision for the future. We’ve gone from a team of one (our fearless founder) to a diverse and talented team of 20+ and we can’t wait to share with you where Au Lit is headed next! Stay tuned…
Emily
Camelia
Azaela
Toile Red
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Jolie Satin Pyjama Pant (available in six colours)
Limited Edition Holiday Paisley White Sleep Mask
The Forgotten Daughter by Joanna Goodman
Apotheke Signature Votive Gift Set
Washed Cotton/Bamboo Waffle Robe White
Steel Blue Mink Faux Fur Throw
Shala Robe (available in 6 colours)
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French Milled Soap Set (Lemon, Orange & Lavender)
Dreamer Satin Pillow Cases & Scrunchie Set
Apotheke Signature Votive Gift Set
Apotheke Canvas Clean Hand Gel
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Consider a gift that grows and evolves with their ever-changing interests. We've done the hard work for you and compiled our top gifts that we think your teenager will love.
Soft & Cozy Flannel Bundle Heather Grey
Joyful Spirits Stripe PJ Shorts
100% Goose Down Soft Support Pillow
100% Silk Weighted Sleep Mask Blue
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Classic Micro Cotton Robe White
Au Lit Luxe Plush & Absorbent Towel Bundle White
Kismet Soothe Himalayan Salt Soak
The Cotton Waffle Spa Gift Set
]]>We've compiled a list of our favourite picks for the guy who claims he already "has it all."
Maple Leaf Cool & Relaxed Washed Linen Bundle, from $550
Buttery Soft 410 Thread Count Percale Bundle, from $452
100% Goose Down Pillow Medium Support, from $200
Au Lit Bestselling Down Duvet & Pillow Bundle ( + FREE Storage Bag), from $831
Classic Micro Cotton Robe, $160
100% Silk Men's Sleep Mask Black, $75
Au Lit Plush & Absorbent Towel Bundle Dark Grey, $300
Apotheke Charcoal Bath Set, $195
Bamboo Cotton Face Mask Black, $20
Kismet Chill Black Lava Salt Soak, $22
]]>Because you can't come to the store in person (or if you live outside of Toronto) we're bringing the store to you!
Join us on a tour of our shop and explore all of the wonderful holiday gifts that we have in stock this season.
Shop Made in Canada Duvets (final week at up to 25% off!)
Visit the Thread Count Bar (we offer 220TC all the way up to 1030TC!)
Don't forget hand sanitizers! Shop Apotheke Sea Salt Grapefruit Clean Hand Gel
Need additional help? Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-363-6080 or 416-489-7010. We'd love to hear from you!
]]>1. Easy Living Bamboo/Cotton Flax 2. Lawrence Chunky Throw Natural 3. Easy Living Bamboo/Cotton Granite 4. Whitehorse Light Grey Throw
1. Theo Woven Coverlet Taupe 2. Arezzo Steel Throw 3. Easy Living Bamboo/Cotton Granite 4. Miles Body Pillow
1. Alpaca & Wool Throw Light Grey 2. Finn Chunky Hand Knit Throw Silver 3. Geo Matelassé Ivory 4. Jersey Throw Heather Charcoal/Grey 5. Pinery Charcoal Throw 6. Pinery Light Grey Throw 7. Classic Micro Cotton Robe Charcoal 8. Axis Waffle Cushion
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Our One Bed, Four Looks series is back to inspire a fresh new look for your bedroom this fall. Today we're going to show you how to transform our brand new Trio 3-Line Ombré Grey/410TC Grey Percale bedding into an autumn haven by simply swapping out a few decorative pieces.
We've paired the Trio 3-Line duvet cover and shams with our Easy Living Bamboo/Cotton Granite pillow cases as a starting point. By investing in this classic bedding, you'll have endless design options. As we always say, a neutral foundation is the perfect blank canvas to which you can add a pop of colour or texture to suit the season.
To that end, we are obsessed with our new fall/winter collection of deco cushions and throws in colours like Wasabi green, Mustard and Paprika. Be as bold and creative as you like, without spending a fortune. Adding seasonal accent pieces to your bed is the simplest (and most cost effective) way to transform your bed.
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We're super excited to launch a new summer capsule collection with celebrated Toronto designer Suzanne Dimma. This limited collection embodies Suzanne’s unique “Minimalist Boho” point of view, incorporating refreshing colour & texture combinations and innovative bedding accessories. This collection throws the rulebook out the window, mixing and matching bold florals, modern prints and classic stripes.
This look combines whimsical design with modern florals, stripes and block-printed patterns, perfectly marrying contemporary and classic style.
This exquisite, striped linen bed scarf and deco pillow is the ultimate in relaxed, sophisticated luxury. We've combined it with a versatile, reversible duvet cover in our bestselling 200TC percale cotton - solid Pebble on one side, and 1-Line Flax/Milk on the other. You get two completely different duvet covers in one, with reversible Pebble/Milk pillow cases.
This look is an eclectic blend of textures and patterns, including Suzanne's "back-by-popular-demand" French Knot cushion and a casual, striped cotton throw in Seaglass and Cream. This collection is the embodiment of minimalist boho style.
Featuring funky Ikat deco cushions, a geometric Hanami linen coverlet and a soft, lightweight linen throw in dark grey, this look is all about natural hues and fabrics in warm earth tones.
This look brings together a simple linen/cotton cross-stitch duvet cover and whimsical, boho deco pieces in a palette of soft earth tones. A striped linen bed scarf at the foot of the bed completes this gorgeous collection.
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Monograms first appeared on Greek currency around 350 B.C. In the middle ages, artisans used monograms to personalize their work and aristocrats used them for royal signatures that eventually made their way onto family crests.
Today, monograms are a classic way to personalize almost anything, including your bedding. We offer many different styles, fonts and colours, as well as the option to create a custom design of your own.
Looking for some ideas? Here are some of our bestsellers:
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