How to care for your linen clothing

Understanding how to look after linen properly ensures it remains a reliable staple in your wardrobe. This guide outlines the best way to wash, dry and press linen clothing, helping you preserve its quality and appearance.

Caring for linen: the essentials

Linen is refreshingly low maintenance, but it does benefit from a gentler approach than some everyday fabrics. Excessive heat, harsh detergents and over-handling can shorten the life of a garment, while simple adjustments to your laundry routine can make a significant difference.

First off, before washing any linen piece, always check the care label, as construction, finishes and blends can affect how a garment should be treated.

How to wash linen clothing

Most linen garments are suitable for machine washing, provided the correct settings are used.

Choose a gentle or delicate cycle with cool to lukewarm water. This helps maintain the fabric’s structure and reduces unnecessary stress on seams and fibres. A mild detergent is recommended, as stronger formulas can be abrasive and may affect the finish of the garment over time.

For best results when washing linen

These are a few fundamental rules to bear in mind when washing linen clothing: wash garments with similar colours; avoid overcrowding the machine; fasten buttons and zips before washing; and turn items inside out to protect the outer surface. Again, always refer to the care instructions on the garment labels as a first port of call. Here you will find information on washing temperatures, detergents and do’s and don’ts when caring for linen.

Drying linen: what’s best?

Air drying is the preferred method for linen clothing. After washing, gently reshape the garment while damp and allow it to dry naturally. Hanging on a padded hanger or laying flat can help garments retain their intended silhouette. Direct heat should be avoided, as it can cause shrinkage and unnecessary wear.

While some linen items may be suitable for tumble drying on a low setting, this should be done with caution and only if the care label permits. Removing garments while still slightly damp can help minimise creasing.

Can you iron linen?

Linen can be ironed if a more polished appearance is desired.

For best results, iron while the fabric is still slightly damp, using steam and a medium to high heat setting. Pressing on the reverse side of the garment can help protect the surface and maintain a refined finish.

Many linen wearers choose not to iron at all, allowing natural folds to settle as the garment is worn. This relaxed look is entirely intentional and suits linen’s easy, understated style.

Storing linen garments

Proper storage plays an important role in maintaining linen clothing. Always ensure garments are fully dry before putting them away, and store them in a cool, well-ventilated space. Folding works well for most linen pieces, while jackets or shirts benefit from being hung in a well-ventilated space on a padded hanger. Avoid plastic covers, which can trap moisture; natural fabric garment bags are preferable.

Looking after linen for the long term

Linen clothing rewards thoughtful care. By washing gently, limiting heat exposure and storing garments properly, you will help preserve their shape, comfort and appearance.

The simple steps highlighted in this article will help you ensure linen remains an elegant and dependable choice in your wardrobe that only improves with wear.