5 Tips On How To Take Care Of Your Linen

Don’t wash linen after every wear.
Linen clothes, like linen shirts and blazers, need less washing than you may expect – save on water (and time spent in the laundry) by allowing your linen clothing to hang and aerate between each wear. 

Avoid high temperatures.
If you do have to give it a wash, be mindful that linen, like cotton, tends to shrink. Save your favourite linen dresses from shrinkage by avoiding hot water, sticking instead to warm or cold temperatures in the washing machine (or in the basin if handwashing). It can also help to use a machine wash with a low spin of 30°C.

Say no to the dryer.
Whether apparel, like linen pants, or bedlinen, the dryer can shrink and damage fibres of many linen. Instead try to hang yours out to dry on a washing line in a shady area – it’s also a greener choice. If your only option is the dryer, stick to a low setting, and always steer clear of the dry cleaner as this weakens the fibres.

Iron linen on high heat.
As linen creases easily you’ll find that an iron is non-negotiable when it comes to its care. Plenty of steam is needed to iron successfully – use the iron’s spray feature or a spray bottle of water to keep your garment damp. Though for an even easier option, hang your linen garment in the bathroom while taking a hot shower and let the steam help reduce heavy wrinkles.

How to store your linen.
Avoid folding your linen clothing, especially linen blazers – instead hang them on wooded or padded hangers, avoiding clips and wire hangers that can pull it out of shape. Also keep in mind that they like their space – overcrowded linen can encourage wrinkling. The same goes for linen bedding – try not to overpack the shelves in case sheets flatten and stretch.