Linen - How To Wash And Care For Your Linen Garments

Linen is like Marmite, you either love it or loathe it. It's the creases. Some just can’t stand the creases. I think the creases add to its personality. Sometimes to help combat creases it is combined with other fibres like rayon, cotton, wool and silk. Linen is one of the oldest textiles dating back nearly 5,000 years.

Linen is made from fibres of the stems of the flax plant. The flax is harvested about 100 days after it is planted. It is grown in cooler climates throughout the world, especially in European coastal communities of Belgium, the North of France and the South of the Netherlands. The flax fibres are separated and then spun into a thin yarn which can be used to weave the textile. 

Linen is sustainable. It is one of the most environmentally friendly textiles and is biodegradable. This is because of the method by which the flax is grown. Very little water is required so farmers do not need to irrigate or fertilise during the process. Flax requires fewer pesticides, herbicides or fungicides. Other parts of the plant such as the seeds can be used to produce oil or flax seeds for eating.

Good quality linen fabric is sturdy and durable. It is moisture-resistant and can absorb up to 20% of moisture without feeling wet. Moisture resistance helps protect the material against bacteria growth. 

Linen can be machine or hand washed. Always check the wash care instructions.

Machine wash

For best results wash separately from other fabrics and wash in lukewarm water. High water temperatures may cause shrinkage and weaken the fibres. Use a gentle cycle and a mild detergent. Do not bleach. Hang to dry, or dry flat. If you are unsure about machine washing it is always advisable to hand wash. Iron on a cool to medium heat whilst still damp.

Hand wash

Gently swish the item in lukewarm water and mild detergent. Don’t wring, twist or scrub as this will stretch the fabric. Rinse well. Hang to dry, or dry flat. Iron on a cool to medium heat whilst still damp.

I would personally avoid using the tumble dryer as the heat will shrink the fabric.

Removing stains

Try to treat the stain as soon as possible. If you let dirt, oil, grease and other stains sit on the fabric, they will absorb deep into the fibres, making removal difficult.

Linen dries faster than cotton and is approx 30% stronger. It ages well and gets softer with washing. 

Embrace the creases.