So you’re having a calm and chill Sunday morning enjoying your breakfast in bed. Some waffles, a cup of coffee... When—yikes! Your coffee just spilled on your new linen blanket or bedding.
Stains are some of the most stubborn stuff to remove on fabric, and this can be even tougher when the fabric is linen. Bleach is not always advisable. And depending on the age of stain, you might need to approach the stain differently. In this article, we’ll share some tips in removing stains on linen.
Tips for Linen Stain Removal
Stain on your linen doesn’t mean it's time to retire the linen. There are some things you can do to remove the stain and bring your linen back to its new-like, stain-free condition.
Treating White Linen to Remove Stain and Age Spots
Do not throw your stained linen directly into the wash—make sure you treat the stain before washing. Create a stain removal solution by mixing your stain remover with boiling water and then pouring directly on the stain. After this, soak the linen in very hot water. Soak for as long as needed—for old and tough stains, a week or more of soaking may be needed until you see the stain has lifted.
Treating Dyed Linen White Taking Care of the Colors
When it comes to dyed linen, extra care is needed when removing stains because some stain remover may be too harsh for the dye and your linen might change color. The key is to begin by applying the stain remover to only one, preferably hidden, part of the linen and then checking if there is any effect on color. If you notice the color has changed, that means you are using the wrong solution and you must find a different stain remover.
Using Bleach with Care
Bleach is a strong chemical, and it can weaken any fiber. You can use this for linen but remember not to use it too often. Otherwise, the lifespan of your linen will be shortened. Another thing to remember is to never apply undiluted bleach directly on the linen. Always dilute before application.
The Art of Proper Linen Rinsing
Apart from proper stain removal, another thing to remember when washing linen is to rinse them sufficiently until you no longer see any suds. Improper rinsing can cause yellowing on linen, and it can make the linen look old and worn.
Linen, when properly cared for, can last for years. Apart from regular washing, don’t let stains stay on your linen for a long time, no matter how small they are. Treat and remove right away to keep your linen looking new and well cared for.