How Fogo Island Inn is Leading the Charge in Sustainable Luxury with Linen Textiles
Fogo Island Inn has always been a beacon of excellence, but their commitment to sustainability sets them apart in ways few properties dare to emulate. Their bold shift from cotton to linen textiles illustrates not only a deep focus on planet-friendly practices but also an unwavering dedication to quality.
Fogo Island Inn has always been a beacon of excellence, but their commitment to sustainability sets them apart in ways few properties dare to emulate. Their bold shift from cotton to linen textiles illustrates not only a deep focus on planet-friendly practices but also an unwavering dedication to quality. For those in hospitality looking to combine luxury with environmental stewardship, this story serves as both inspiration and proof of concept.
A Journey Begun at the Table
The transition began with table linens, a category that many understand as synonymous with refined dining. At Fogo Island Inn’s restaurant, 100% white linen adorns every table, establishing both tone and expectation. White linen isn’t just beautiful; it’s timeless. It signifies that what you’re about to experience will be special.
From the polished aesthetics to the unmatched durability and environmental benefits, linen quickly became the natural choice. Recognizing this, the Inn made their bold first move, setting a standard that others are now watching closely.
A Radical Step Forward in the Bath
With table linens in place, the next area of transformation was far less traditional. Bath towels. For decades, thick cotton terry has been wrongly equated with luxury, but Fogo Island Inn showed the courage to challenge this misconception.
Amanda Decker-Panton, the Inn’s manager, was a key player in this decision. After learning about the many benefits of 100% linen towels—from their sustainability to their exceptional durability, absorbency, and gentle exfoliating texture—she embraced the idea wholeheartedly. Together with the Inn’s team, she made the bold shift.
Unlike cotton terry, which can develop odors in humid climates, linen towels resist smells and last far longer. They’re also far more energy efficient to launder, cutting down on detergent use and dryer time. Switching to linen in the bathrooms wasn’t just a brave move; it was a visionary one. And it paid off. Guests absolutely loved the towels, and the Inn decided to reorder for 2025, reinforcing their decision as a resounding success.
The Bedroom Transformation
With the success of linen towels, the Inn’s leap to linen sheeting was a logical next step. For many, the idea of linen bedding feels fresh but evokes the luxury of European simplicity. Fogo Island Inn took every detail into account. They chose VITA linens, a pre-washed, easy-care option known for its durability and aesthetic appeal.
What's unique about their approach is that they use the duvet and bottom sheet only, forgoing the top sheet entirely. This European-style arrangement enhances the guest experience with breathable comfort and effortless elegance. Even more exciting, the property launched a retail program for guests who wanted to bring those same linens home. Talk about hospitality meeting retail innovation!
Linen's Unparalleled Advantages
Why linen? The reasons are clear. Linen outshines cotton in nearly every category that matters. Thanks to its durability, it lasts far longer, which reduces replacement rates. Its eco-friendliness, being derived from flax plants, saves substantial resources compared to cotton production. Add to that its ease of maintenance, and the equation is simple. Linen isn’t just a sustainable choice, it’s a smart one.
A Win for the Planet, A Win for Hospitality
Fogo Island Inn’s comprehensive transition to linen isn’t just a win for their property; it’s a win for sustainability on a broader scale. Every tablecloth, towel, and sheet at the Inn tells a story of innovation, courage, and care for both guests and the planet. For businesses in hospitality considering how to weave sustainability into their operations, Fogo Island Inn’s example is nothing short of inspiring.
By showing that luxury doesn’t need to compromise sustainability, Fogo Island Inn has carved a path that others will inevitably follow. Will you join them?
How can we help with your property’s sustainable textile needs? Let us know below and we will be in touch.