The Best Zero Waste Fabric: Linen
Are you considering investing in some linen pieces for your home? I understand it might not be the most affordable option, but the positives far outweigh the initial cost. I recommend keeping an eye on thrift stores for linen curtains and fabrics. I once found 6 sets of beautiful linen curtains at a thrift store. You can see those find in my home.
Here are 6 Reasons Why to You Should Choose Linen Textiles for Your Home:
Linen is safe for the environment
Linen has a natural heating and cooling system built-in
Linen is very strong and very durable
Linen's 'undone' look looks luxurious
Linen is antibacterial and hypoallergenic
Linen repels insects
Now, let me get into each reason in a bit more detail so that you are sure to make the best decision for you.
Six Reasons Linen is Superior to other Fabrics:
Linen is safe for the environment
100% natural linen is created from flax plants. Flax is a plant that thrives in naturally moistened, well-drained soil or a clay-based environment, meaning it does not require much energy or water to produce. To make linen fabric, manufacturers use the plant in its entirety to construct a beautifully textured look. You could say that linen is the handmade paper of fabrics.
At the end of its lifecycle, pure linen can completely break down into the soil in a matter of weeks, making it a virtually zero waste material. To speed this process up, one can cut up the fabric into smaller pieces and place it in a compost-ready condition such as a composting tumbler or worm farm.
One thing to watch out for is synthetic dyed linen. It is important to preserve the fabric's integrity by using natural dyes or leaving it undyed to prevent synthetic chemicals from leaching into the soil upon disposal.
Linen has a natural heating and cooling system built-in
As a naturally lightweight fabric, linen offers better airflow than a lot of other materials. This 'lift' effect is what contributes to the distinctive full, almost naturally fluffy look and why it looks so beautiful in bedding. Linen wicks away moisture almost instantaneously which also contributes to its cooling abilities. For those who suffer from night sweats or overheating of any kind, linen bedding can help to elevate the airflow under the covers and naturally regulate one's body temperature while keeping dry.
Linen is very strong and very durable
Linen is one of the strongest fabrics on the planet. It fairs 30% stronger against its other environmentally friendly counterpart, cotton. The fiber from the flax plant is naturally straight and smooth, allow it built-in structural integrity to keep its shape over time. This helps the fabric to stay looking new for longer and will prevent any damage from tears or wear.
When you first buy an item made of linen, it should feel very stiff. You can soak the new linen fabric overnight in a soak ratio of 1 cup white vinegar, for every 3 liters of water before washing to soften, and break down the initially stiff bonds between the fibers. The longer you have your linen items, the better they will be.
Linen's 'undone' look looks luxurious
Linen is regarded in Europe as the best quality fabric. It's hard to deny the beauty it can bring to any space. I am sure it is a large part of why you are even here reading this list. Linen is a neutral material that elevates any space with its weave-like texture. No matter what your interior style is, linen can elevate your bedding, curtains, place settings, and furniture with warmth and sophistication.
Linen is antibacterial and hypoallergenic
Due to its moisture-wicking properties, linen does not hold onto bacteria the same way other fabrics can. These attributes keep the fabric smelling fresh and dry, making it an ideal choice for individuals with skin sensitivities. As for being hypoallergenic -- I mean that for sun allergies too! Linen protects the skin from harmful UV rays thanks to its strong, straight, fiber. This is just another reason why it makes a wonderful addition to any eco-friendly, chemical-sensitive home.
Linen repels insects
A fact you might not know about linen is that it has natural insect-repellent properties. When you choose linen, you do not need to worry about months, beetles, cockroaches, silverfish or termites ruining the integrity or putting holes in the material.
Well, what do you think? Do I have you convinced? If you are interested in shopping for linen items for your home, feel free to take a look at my shop offerings below:
