So you have finally decided to invest in a beautiful set of linen bedding for your home—we are happy for you! You are on your way to improving not only the aesthetics of your home but also the quality of your life, from your sleeping to the atmosphere you create inside your abode.
If you’re like many homeowners who decided to shift to linen as a healthier fabric, one of your initial concerns is likely linen care and maintenance. There is a misconception that linen is a high-maintenance fabric and might need specialist care. The truth is that like any fabric, linen needs proper TLC, but it doesn’t require too much time or effort to keep in good shape. And the good news? Natural linen fabric gets better over time.
In this post, we’d like to offer some insights to help you care for your linen, from beddings to throw blankets and cushion covers.
First, washing linen.
This is very easy to do. Take note of the guide below to help you:
DO:- Hand wash or machine wash—either works. Because linen is naturally soft, it doesn’t require dry cleaning. You can use your regular machine to give it a good wash or prefer to wash it by hands.
- Wash in low temperature. Whether machine washing or hand washing, use only lukewarm water in order to protect the fabric and keep it from shrinking.
- Hang it to dry right after washing. This is to minimize the crumpled look in your linen, especially given that it is naturally a wrinkled fabric. To keep the fabric from being too stiff, it is recommended to take it off the drying line before it gets fully dry, lay it flat on a towel, and allow it to dry fully there.
DON’T:
- Mix colored and white linens, or heavy clothing and linens, for that matter. To keep the quality of linen optimum, wash it separately and do not wring or twist.
- Chemicals can weaken linen fabric, so avoid them as much as possible. If you need to remove stain from your linen, you can wash the stain off with club soda. Other options would be to use a dish soap or a combination of baking soda and vinegar. These natural cleaners are tough on stains but gentle on fabric.
- Use fabric softener. Like bleach, fabric softeners can weaken linen, reducing their quality. There is actually no need to use softeners on linen as it naturally gets softer over time.
Second, ironing linen.
The question is: do you need to?
And the answer is you may, but you don’t actually need to. One appeal of linen is its slightly wrinkly texture.
If you prefer to iron linen, keep the heat in the low setting or do not apply the iron directly to the fabric. You may also use a steamer instead. However, know that this fabric will always have a certain degree of wrinkles, which is part of its unique characteristics.
And finally, third, storing linen.
Like most types of fabric, one way to care for your linen is to allow it to breathe. This means when it comes to storage, plastic is a big no-no. Instead, use a storage material that will allow air to circulate through the fabric.
One of the ideal storage solutions for linen is basket. Not only does it do the job but it also creates a lovely and warm environment in your space. You may also use a laundry hamper. The fabric is breathable and will keep your linen cool.
Linen care is simple. It doesn’t require any specialized knowhow or even equipment. And when properly maintained, natural linen beddings will surely give you years and years of good service.