How to Clean and Care for Linen
Linen is one of my favourite natural fibers due to its breathability and hypoallergenic properties. You can check out my full post on why I love it so much here. Once you have invested in some pieces it is important you care for it properly so it looks it’s best and lasts a long time. Don’t worry! This isn’t as daunting of a task as you might first think. You likely happened upon this post unsure of the commitment you have made, but Linen is actually pretty low maintenance. This post will be a quick overview on how to clean and maintain linen at home, feel free to keep it handy as a reference.
How to wash linen?
This is pretty neat because linen becomes softer and more absorbent with each wash. Linen should be washed on low temperatures with lukewarm or cold, and preferably soft water. If you want to protect the fibers, use the gentle cycle and use a mild detergent. To be sure, read the instructions for each manufacturer.
How do I dry linen?
It is alright to machine (tumble-dry) your linen clothes as long as you use low temperatures. To avoid the linen becoming stiff, remove it from the dryer when it is still slightly damp, and hang or lay flat to finish drying.
Do I need to iron linen?
The answer is no! The only time linen garments need to be ironed is if they have become very crumpled. The inherent natural folds and crumples of linen are what give it its drapey and relaxed feel. Those who love ironing, or have a garment that needs pressing, might want to iron it while it's still damp. Put your iron on the steam setting at medium heat. White linen should be ironed on both sides, whereas dark linen should only be ironed on the reverse side.
How do I store my linens?
Ensure that your linens are kept in a cool, dry place, and avoid plastic bags, cardboard boxes, and cedar chests. Linen has natural insect-repellent properties, so you should not worry about moths or other creatures nibbling on your clothes. After taking out linen from storage, you may need to give it an airing and a good wash.
Hey, Claudia here
I am a senior graphic designer, a dog mom, an advocate for a zero-waste lifestyle, climate change, and sustainability. My articles are based on personal experience and well researched to give you the best source of information for all things zero-waste.