So you've got a wardrobe full of your favourite linen pieces.
Firstly well done on choosing such a great, sustainable and breathable fabric to add to your rotation. There are so many benefits to wearing and choosing linen. Of course the fact that it is a derivative of the flax plant and is considered one of the most sustainable fabrics available. Did you know it can decompose in only a few weeks? While fast fashion is causing such a crisis with landfill, considered linen pieces will not only spend a lifetime in your wardrobe, it's great to know when it comes to the end of its life it returns to the earth so easily.
Linen is highly absorbent and breathable, especially when it is hot and humid. As linen is extremely moisture wicking it will always keep you looking and feeling comfortable and cool. Linen instantly absorbs your body sweat and moisture up to as much as 1/5 of its total weight before you even feel any dampness.
Linen is one of the most durable and robust natural fibres, second only to silk.
30% stronger than cotton, with proper care and washing, it could well outlive us. I'm still wearing linen pieces that my mother passed to me and also sleeping on some beautiful french linen sheets from the early 1900's
So how do you best care for your linen?
WASHING
Seperate whites, darks and coloured items. Use mild detergent in cold water - high temperatures will shrink the fibres. If machine washing, use the gentle cycle and don't overload it. If hand washing, gently swish the item - don't twist, wring or scrub.
DRYING
Air drying is great for linen and it also saves on electricity! Line dry your items or lay them flat on a white, dry towel. If machine drying, tumble on low heat (warm air). Remove when still slightly damp, and hang or lie flat to finish drying.
IRONING
We recommend learning to love linens natural crumples - its part of the charm!
But if you want the item to look a little more pressed, use a warm iron on the fabric while its still damp, or overlay it with a damp towel.
STAINS
Act quickly! The fibres are very absorbent, so don't let stains sit. For minor spots, soak in a water-detergent solution, spray with a stain remover or have you ever tried the soda water? For stubborn stains, try gently massaging in dish soap, then wash the garment.
BLEACHING
Don't do it! Bleach and brightening detergents weaken the fibres and may cause discolouration and fabric thinning.
SOFTENING
Don't be tempted by fabric softeners. These weaken the fibres and coat them, reducing their absorbency and moisture-wicking properties. Linen natural gets softer with each wash, so keep on wearing and loving your item.
STORING
These natural fibres need to breathe! Make sure items are completely dry before storing to avoid mildew. Opt for linen bags (or old pillowcases) over plastic bags or cardboard boxes.
So get in there and love your linen pieces, they are robust and beautiful and if you care for them well, they will soften and envelope you in comfort and joy for many years to come and then you can pass them on for future generations.
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