Linen is a beautiful and versatile fabric used for centuries for clothing, home decor, and more. It is known for its durability, breathability, and classic look, making it a popular choice for everything from napkins to sheets. However, many people are unsure how to properly care for linen to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Our linen cleaning services prepared tips and tricks for washing and ironing linen to help you keep your linen items looking their best for years.
Washing Linen
Linen can be washed in a washing machine, but it is important to take some precautions to prevent damage to the fabric. Follow the below tips for washing linen:
#1 – Use mild detergent: Linen is a delicate fabric, so it is important to use a mild detergent free of harsh chemicals. As per linen cleaning services, look for a detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics, or use a gentle, eco-friendly detergent.
#2 – Wash in cold water: Hot water can damage linen fibres and cause shrinkage, so washing linen in cold water is best. You can also choose a delicate cycle to protect the fabric further.
#3 – Avoid bleach: Bleach can weaken the fibres in linen, so it is best to avoid using it altogether. Professional linen cleaning services suggest that if you need to brighten up white linen, you can use baking soda or vinegar instead.
#4 – Don’t overload the machine: Linen needs room to move around in the washing machine, so don’t overload the machine. It will ensure the fabric is properly cleaned and won’t get tangled or twisted.
#5 – Air dry: It is best to air dry linen instead of putting it in the dryer. You can hang it up outside or inside on a drying rack. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, which can cause wrinkles and damage to the fibres.
Ironing Linen:
Ironing linen can seem daunting, but it can be easy to do with a little practice. Here are some tips for ironing linen:
#1 – Iron while damp: Linen is easiest to iron when slightly damp. If you let it dry completely, it can be harder to remove wrinkles. You can either iron the linen while it is still damp from the washing machine or mist it lightly with water before ironing.
#2 – Use a high heat setting: As per wash and iron services, linen can handle high heat, so set your iron to a high temperature. Make sure to test a small area first to ensure that the fabric can handle the heat.
#3 – Iron on the wrong side: When ironing linen, ironing on the wrong side of the fabric is best. It will prevent any shine or damage to the fabric.
#4 – Use a pressing cloth: A pressing cloth can help protect the linen from the heat of the iron. You can use cotton or linen cloth for this.
#5 – Don’t press too hard: Linen is a delicate fabric, so it is important to be gentle when ironing. Don’t press too hard or leave the iron in one place for too long, as this can damage the fibres.
Storing Linen:
Proper storage is also important for keeping linen in good condition. Follow the below tips for storing linen:
#1 – Avoid sunlight: Sunlight can fade and damage linen, so storing it in a cool, dark place is best.
#2 – Use acid-free tissue paper: If you store linen items, such as tablecloths or napkins, you can use acid-free tissue paper to help prevent wrinkles and creases.
#3 – Avoid plastic bags: Plastic bags can trap moisture and cause mildew or mould to grow on linen.
Conclusion:
Linen is a beautiful, durable fabric requiring special care to maintain quality. By following the tips on washing and ironing linen, you can make it last longer and look its best. If you’re short on time or want professional quality wash and iron services, consider using a laundry service like Hello Laundry.
