Linen care

Linen fabrics are surprisingly durable and have a long-lasting appearance, but to enjoy all of these qualities you need to look after it properly. There are still rumors that linen fabrics are difficult to care for, but in reality, you don't have to pay much attention to them ─ just follow a few simple tips.

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Natural and long-lasting, linen gets softer with time. It will endure for many years if properly cared for. Here’s how to properly wash it.

Wash it first, keeping it apart

Use a moderate cycle to wash fresh linen separately at 30 to 40°C / 86 to 104°F. It can then be cleaned using comparable materials. To avoid shrinking, stay away from temperatures above 40°C/ 86°F. This is crucial for unwashed linen, which can shrink by up to 5%.

Guidelines for linen washing

  • Employ eco-friendly cleaning products: The greatest products for linen and the environment are gentle ones that don’t include bleach.
  • Avoid bleach as it can harm clothes that have been colored. Only white linen should be bleached using non-chlorine bleach if required.
  • Contrary to popular opinion, fabric softener is safe for linen as long as it is used sparingly.
  • Wash with comparable materials: Mix with other delicate, light materials. Steer clear of bulky objects like towels or pants.
  • Avoid overtaxing the machine: Wear is avoided and appropriate rinsing is made possible by a half-full drum.
  • Gentle hand washing: Avoid twisting or wringing when washing by hand. Rinse well.

Last tip: 

Over time, linen becomes more comfy as it becomes softer with each wash. Its texture and appearance can be preserved with proper care.

Linen can be tumble-dried (on a lower setting), but as it dries very quickly, the natural way is sufficient for these fabrics. Linen has a tendency to wrinkle after washing. If you want to minimise wrinkles, it is a good idea not to wring the fabrics (or only very lightly) and to hang them in such a way that they do not wrinkle even more during drying.

It is advisable to avoid direct sunlight and to avoid letting the products dry too quickly and for too long, as this will make it more difficult to iron linen fabrics.

Does drying cause linen to shrink?

Linen is a fantastic option for daily usage because it dries rapidly. However, the subject of whether linen shrinks in the dryer is still frequently asked.

Yes, if overheated

Yes, pre-washed linen goods, such as towels, can be tumble-dried at low temperature on a short or medium cycle if they are overheated. Remove them while still somewhat damp and allow them to dry naturally to prevent shrinkage.

Air-drying is best

This is ideal method. Air-drying helps minimize wrinkles, saves energy, and protects the cloth.

  • Helps reduce wrikles
  • Protects the fibers
  • Saves energy

Low heat makes machine drying safe. However, air-drying is the most environmentally friendly and fabric-friendly method for the greatest outcomes and longest fabric life.

image-of-linen-materials
image-of-linen-materials

Depending on whether you desire a clean, smooth appearance, ironing linen is optional. Ironing can improve the appearance of linen bed linens, linen tablecloths, and linen towels.

To help linen fabrics iron better, it is advisable to carry out this process when they are not completely dry, which is often the case with steam ironing. If you iron when wet, leave the products to dry in a cool, dry and well-ventilated room. It is best to iron from the wrong side: the fabric will not become shiny and the colours will not fade. A temperature of 200°C/ 392°F or less is recommended.

Tips for ironing linens:

  • For optimal effects, iron linen while slightly damp.
  • Select a heat setting of medium to high.
  • There’s no need to iron too much once the wrinkles are gone.
  • To keep dark or bright linen from fading or shining, always iron on the back side.
  • For a more durable and sharp finish, use spray starch.
  • You can tumble-dry pre-washed linen on low; take it out while it’s still moist.
  • Before ironing, let the fabric air dry flat for optimal maintenance.

Keeping linen soft, silky, and appearing new is simple if you follow these suggestions.