What are mummies wrapped in?

Mummies are traditionally wrapped in linen cloth, especially in ancient Egyptian mummification. Linen was made from flax and was valued because it was lightweight, durable, and associated with cleanliness and ritual purity.

After the body was dried with natron, embalmers wrapped it in many layers of linen bandages. Priests often placed protective amulets between the layers, while resin or gum helped hold the wrappings together. The face, hands, feet, and other areas could receive extra padding and fabric.

The wrapping was more than practical preservation. Egyptians believed the body needed to remain recognizable for the deceased to exist in the afterlife, and the amulets provided religious protection. Wealthier people could also receive painted cartonnage, masks, and decorated outer shrouds.

Linen was not the only material used by every culture that practiced mummification, so the answer is most specifically associated with ancient Egyptian mummies. Some mummies were also enclosed in coffins, masks, mats, leather, or other coverings after the linen wrapping was complete.