When the weather at home gets warmer, or we’re preparing for a holiday in sunnier climes, linen clothes are usually at the top of the must-have wardrobe list. Why? Because the natural fibres allow our skin to breathe better and they’re cooler against our skin. But how practical is linen really? Won’t it get terribly creased in your washing machine? Amazingly linen is pretty easy to launder – just follow our step-by-step guide below.
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How to wash linen in a washing machine
Linen is made from flax, a natural fibre that can absorb a lot of water. It is prone to heavy creasing in the wash (or while wearing it, too!), but if you give items a lot of space to move around in the drum, you’ll find this particular situation is greatly improved. The best way to wash linen is to check the care label and then follow these steps.
- 1
Wash linens as a half load
Wash your linen items separately as a half load or one large item at a time – lights and darks in different batches. Delicates are better hand-washed.
- 2
Use a gentle detergent
Select a gentle detergent and add the appropriate amount to the machine.
- 3
Wash on a long soak, short wash, rinse and short spin
Choose a program with a long soak, a short wash, a rinse, and a short spin.
- 4
Wash on a cool temperature
Make sure the cycle uses a moderate to cool temperature.
- 5
Once done, immediately remove from the washing machine
When the cycle is finished immediately remove the clothes from the machine to avoid any extra creasing from sitting damp in the drum.
- 6
Hang out to dry
Hang out on a washing line to air-dry.
Need help washing other fabrics? Try our articles on how to care for clothes made of rayon, how to wash wool, and how to clean delicates like silk.
