If you’re looking to learn how to wash linen like an absolute pro, you’ve come to the right place. Washing linen takes more than just putting the fabric into water then adding soap.
There’s a lot to consider when washing linen to make sure that the quality of the linen doesn’t decrease.
That’s where this article comes in. We’ll be delving into different ways of washing linen, the best way to wash linen, and many more. So buckle up!
Looking into How to Wash Linen: The Different Ways
Linen can be washed in different ways depending on the item’s type, its care requirements, and your available resources. Here are the key methods:
1. Machine Washing
- Best For: Everyday items like clothing, bedding, and towels.
- Steps:
- Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water.
- Wash separately or with similar fabrics to avoid damage.
- Opt for a mild detergent.
- Avoid overloading the machine to minimize creasing.
2. Hand Washing
- Best For: Delicate linen items or those with embroidery or lace.
- Steps:
- Fill a basin with cold or lukewarm water.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent and mix.
- Submerge the linen, gently swishing it without twisting or scrubbing.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
3. Dry Cleaning
- Best For: Structured or heavily embellished linen garments (e.g., blazers,suits or dresses).
- Steps:
- Follow the care label to determine if dry cleaning is recommended.
- Take the item to a professional cleaner for safe handling.
4. Spot Cleaning
- Best For: Small stains on linen items.
- Steps:
- Dab the stain gently with a clean cloth and cold water.
- Use a mild detergent or stain remover if needed, but avoid harsh chemicals.
5. Steam Cleaning
- Best For: Wrinkled linen items that need refreshing between washes.
- Steps:
- Use a garment steamer or iron with a steam function.
- Hang the linen and steam to remove wrinkles and freshen the fabric.
The Best Way to Wash Linen
Now let’s find out exactly how to wash linen like a pro. Linen after each wash becomes more absorbent as well as softer, which is actually pretty neat.
- Check the Care Label
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific washing guidelines. - Use Cold or Lukewarm Water
Wash linen in cold or lukewarm water (30°C/86°F max) to prevent shrinkage and protect the fibers. - Opt for a Gentle Cycle
Select a gentle machine wash or hand wash to minimize agitation, which can stress the fabric. - Choose Mild Detergent
Use a mild, bleach-free detergent to maintain the fabric’s natural texture and color. - Wash Separately or with Similar Fabrics
Avoid washing linen with heavy items like jeans or towels to prevent excessive friction. - Avoid Overloading the Machine
Give linen ample space in the washer to reduce creasing and allow thorough cleaning. - Skip Fabric Softeners
Linen softens naturally over time and doesn’t require added fabric softeners, which can leave residue. - Air-Dry Whenever Possible
Lay flat or hang linen to air dry out of direct sunlight to prevent shrinkage and maintain its shape. If you have to use a dryer, choose a low-heat setting and remove the fabric while slightly damp. - Iron While Damp (Optional)
For a smooth finish, iron linen while it’s still slightly damp, using a medium to high heat setting. - Avoid Long Soaking or Harsh Treatments
Prolonged soaking or using harsh chemicals can weaken the natural fibers.
These steps ensure linen stays soft, durable, and long-lasting.
Here are a further 9 great tips
- Pre-wash New Linen
- New linen may shrink slightly during the first wash. Washing it before use ensures it reaches its true size.
- Avoid High Temperatures
- Prolonged exposure to high heat, whether in water or drying, can weaken linen fibers and cause shrinkage or discoloration.
- Store Properly
- Store linen in a cool, dry place, preferably folded neatly to avoid creases. Avoid plastic bags or containers, as linen needs to breathe.
- Handle Stains Promptly
- Treat stains as soon as possible with mild soap and cold water. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as it can damage the fibers.
- Separate Light and Dark Colors
- Wash light and dark linens separately to prevent color bleeding, especially for vibrantly dyed fabrics.
- Wrinkles Are Natural
- Linen naturally wrinkles due to its fiber structure. Embrace the relaxed, casual look, or iron while slightly damp if a crisp finish is preferred.
- Consider Line-Drying Outdoors
- Drying linen outdoors not only preserves its texture but also gives it a fresh, natural scent.
- Don’t Over-wash
- Over-washing can wear out linen unnecessarily. Since linen is odor-resistant, it doesn’t require frequent laundering unless soiled.
- Be Mindful of Friction
- High friction can cause pilling or surface wear. Avoid activities that might abrade the fabric during wear or use.
With proper care, linen will become softer and more comfortable over time, maintaining its durability and charm for years.
How Often Should Linen Be Washed?
If you want to know how to wash linen expertly, then you should also know how often one should wash linen. How often linen should be washed really depends on the person.
The frequency of washing linen fabric depends on its use and type:
1. Clothing
- Wash after 1–3 wears unless heavily soiled or exposed to sweat.
- Linen is breathable and resists odors, so it doesn’t need frequent washing.It is also anti bacterial and hypo allergenic
2. Bedding
- Wash every 1–2 weeks for regular use.
- More frequent washing (weekly) is recommended in warmer weather or if used by people prone to sweating.
3. Towels
- Wash after 4–7 uses or sooner if damp for extended periods.
- Linen towels dry quickly, reducing bacterial buildup, but should be washed regularly for hygiene.
Proper care, such as gentle washing and air-drying, helps maintain the fabric’s durability and softness.
Best Drying Procedures for Linen
Linen clothing and textiles are best air dried out of direct sunlight.
If you have to use a dryer, use low temperature and remove from the dryer while it’s still slightly damp in order to avoid the linen from becoming stiff.
Washing Linen Without Harsh Chemicals
Linen tends to be easily wrinkled, especially when it is brand new. Linen fabrics that are new may feel stiff and crispy, but gentle usage and just a few washes make it more supple and soft over time.
These days, many companies either use chemicals, stone wash or silicone just to make linen softer so they could attract customers. These techniques actually reduce the lifespan of the naturally elegant linen material. Stone washing linen as well as using chemical softeners harm the flax fibers.
If that’s so, then how could we soften linen in a faster but natural way? Here are a few tips.
- Washing linen just a few times helps remove the new linen fibers’ cellulose coating. The manufacturer’s instructions should always be followed when washing.
- Use vinegar or baking soda. You may add to the wash 1 small cup of vinegar or a half cup of baking soda. You could also soak the linen in water that’s mixed with vinegar. Just do not overuse the vinegar, only use about a water ratio of 1 cup to 4 litres.
How Do I Maintain My Linen Fabric?
Keep and store your linens in a nice, cool and dry place; try to avoid plastic bags, cedar chests and cardboard boxes. Linen incredibly has inbuilt insect-repellent properties which means you have nothing to worry about when it comes to moths or other nibbly insects.
When you take your linen out of the storage, give it a decent airing and wash it if a bit of a refresh is needed.
Conclusion to How to Wash Linen Like a Pro
Linen fabrics are one of the most beautiful and comfortable types of fabrics. However, despite its beauty and eloquence, it is also quite delicate. Just one wrong move during the washing and drying process and you could find your linen fabric shrinking or even all wrinkled up and ruined. Nobody wants that. For more info on how and what to do if your linen shrinks, go to our article titled Does Linen Shrink – A Guide to Maintaining your Linen.
You are free to wash linen through different means. Be it by machine washing, hand washing, or dry cleaning, as long as you’re careful, read the label, and follow all the instructions, your linen fabric will be nice and safe.
Caring for your linen cloth doesn’t stop there, as you also need to be careful where you store your linen fabrics. As long as you know all of these, there’s very little error you’ll encounter. That’s how to wash linen like a pro!
