Linen is one of the most commonly used fabrics throughout the world but we can’t help but wonder, does linen shrink? Linen has many benefits and is known to be quite a durable material that will last for a long time and is quite absorbent as well.
However, there’s one thing about this material that may turn people off. To answer the first question, yes. Linen does shrink.
But exactly why does linen shrink and how can you prevent it from shrinking? Let’s find out today!
Why Does Linen Shrink?
We now know that linen shrinks, why does linen shrink though?
Linen shrinks primarily because it is made from natural flax fibers, which absorb moisture easily. When exposed to water, especially hot water, the fibers relax and contract, causing the fabric to shrink.
Additionally, the heat from washing or drying can further tighten the fibers, leading to more shrinkage.
This is why proper care, such as washing in cold water and air-drying, is essential in maintaining linen’s size and shape.
If you’re curious whether cold or hot water causes more shrinkage in linen, it’s well established that hot water leads to greater shrinkage.
Shrinkage among the Different Types of Linen
After finding out why linen shrinks, we can then talk about the different types of linen.
Damask Linen
This type of linen is delicate and is one of the most visually appealing types of linen in the market. It is made with the use of a jacquard loom to create something that’s the same as embroidery.
It isn’t designed to be used every day though, and it’s commonly used more in decorative pieces of cloth like curtains.
Plain Woven Linen
This type of linen is generally used to make dish towels and hand towels. Because of its loosely woven structure, it is known to be highly durable.
Loosely-Woven Linen
Although it is effective when it comes to absorbing liquids, loosely woven linen lacks in the durability department. It is usually used to make sanitary napkins as well as reusable diapers.
Sheeting Linen
Linen clothing is commonly made from sheeting linen because of its untextured, comfy surface as well as its close weave. Setting linen compared to other forms of linen fabric generally has a thread count that’s higher.
Linen vs Other Fabrics: A Shrinkage Comparison
Cotton
Cotton is also another type of fabric that is quite common in the clothing industry. It is also a type of material that could also shrink under certain circumstances.
Does linen shrink as much as cotton though?
Linen generally shrinks less than cotton but still requires proper care to minimize shrinkage. Cotton fibers tend to absorb more water and are more elastic, leading to greater shrinkage compared to linen.
However, both fabrics can shrink significantly if exposed to hot water or high heat in a dryer. Washing in cold water and air-drying are recommended to preserve the size and longevity of both linen and cotton items.
Wool
Wool is actually the fiber known to be the most prone to shrinking thanks to its scales that act like Velcro. Some types of wool will also shrink more compared to others like wool from some types of sheep felts quite easily, while wool harvested from other types of sheep could be a lot more resistant to felting.
Silk
When it comes into contact with water, silk will tighten and could shrink. Good silk brands won’t have much shrinkage after the first wash, as the fabric would’ve already been pre shrunk and pre steamed prior to and during the manufacturing process.
Preventing Linen Shrinkage – Best Practices for Washing Linen
Linen is a natural fiber and will shrink. The best practices to prevent shrinkage are as follows
- Wash in Cold Water
Use cold or lukewarm water to minimize fiber relaxation and prevent excessive shrinking. - Choose Gentle Cycles
Use a gentle machine wash setting to reduce agitation, which can strain the fibers. - Avoid High Heat Drying
Air drying is preferred, or use a low heat setting in the dryer to prevent excessive contraction of the fibers. - Pre-wash Before Sewing
If using linen for sewing projects, pre wash the fabric to account for any initial shrinkage. - Use Mild Detergents
Opt for gentle, non-abrasive detergents to maintain the integrity of the fibers. - Avoid Prolonged Soaking
Do not leave linen soaking for extended periods, as this can weaken the fibers and contribute to shrinkage. - Iron While Damp
Ironing linen while it’s slightly damp helps to smooth fibers without excessive heat, maintaining its original size. Its also easier to iron the wrinkles out of linen whilst it is still damp. - Read Care Labels Follow specific care instructions provided on the linen garment or fabric for the best results.
What to Do If Linen Shrinks
If shrinking does occur, is there anything anyone could do to save the material? There’s a possibility.
After rewashing the fabric, allow it to air dry until it is no longer dripping but remains slightly damp. At this stage, proceed with ironing.
Begin at the center of the fabric and work outward toward the edges and corners, using smooth, controlled motions to gently stretch the material.
For shirts, dresses and pants, ironing from the top to the bottom will help to move the fabric back to its original position, especially in loosely woven items.
And remember, ironing wrinkles and creases out will effectively increase the items length to its original position.
Although these techniques may not completely reverse the shrinkage, they can effectively restore some of the fabric’s original dimensions in a safe manner.
Long Term Care Tips to Maintain Linen
Linen is an incredible fabric for many reasons, does linen shrink? Well, as we have learned, yes. It is strong, natural, and high quality. Its breathability, durability, and resistance to bacteria are what separates linen apart from other natural fibers.
When maintained properly, it becomes softer and more luxurious with age while keeping its shape, making it a great choice for clothing, sheets, towels, and more.
Washing
- Utilize the gentle cycle when you use your washing machine then only wash with similar fabrics that are lightweight as well.
- Wash in cold or lukewarm water with mild detergent. Warm water could cause linen to shrink.
- Separate dark colors from light colors.
- Try avoiding fabric softener since linen will naturally soften on its own.
- Don’t use any detergent or bleach with a whitening agent. The bleach will more than likely blotch the fabric and harm the fibers.
Drying
- Air dry out of direct sunlight until its slightly damp, then iron.
Conclusion to Does Linen Shrink?
Linen has multiple benefits and is a highly luxurious fabric to look at and feel, but it also is prone to shrinking.
However, if it is well maintained as suggested in this article, it will usually last longer than a lot of other materials. It will also increase in softness the more it is washed.
How you wash, dry and iron your linen is critical in keeping quality garments and bedding. It’s one of the best materials for clothing and other household textiles.
We have a full article on the best way to wash your linen here.
Knowing the answer to, ‘Why does linen shrink?’ can help you keep your clothes and textiles in tip top shape! We hope we have helped you with that.
