Tools + Resources
How to wash linen sheets: Cleaning best practices
When it comes to finding the right type of bedding, it’s important to consider material, weight and, of course, your climate.
Linen sheets are a hot commodity due to their durability and hypoallergenic features. Linen is a natural material that is soft, lightweight and breathable, which is ideal for warmer climates.
The best part about linen bedding is they are easy to care for. When it comes to linen vs. cotton, linen sheets get softer with each wash. It’s no wonder this airy textile is popular year-round.
Unsure how to wash linen sheets? Check out our guide on caring for your linen bedding.
Linen washing instructions
It's important to understand how to care for your new linen sheets. Due to linen’s fibers, the first wash will allow them to settle into place and eliminate any stiffness the manufacturing process causes.
We recommend you wash your new linen sheet set before making your bed. However, it’s crucial you take care when you wash it because incorrect washing can lead to shrinkage. Check out the linen washing instructions below.
Step 1: Separate linen from other laundry
The first step is to sort through your laundry basket. We recommend wash linen sheets by themselves or with other linen items. This is crucial for the first load to ensure the fibers stay in place. Separating by color is also important to avoid dyes bleeding into your lighter-colored items.
Step 2: Choose a gentle cycle and cold water
Always use cold water and select a gentle cycle when washing your linen sheets. When you put too much heat on this fabric, it can shrink and weaken the fibers and threads.
Step 3: Add mild detergent to the washing machine
Choose a mild detergent to wash linen sheets as harsh detergents can lead to stiffness. Try to avoid bleach and fabric softeners because they can cause product buildup on linen. Plus, linen sheets are already soft!
Step 4: Properly load the washer
Make sure you don’t pour the detergent directly on the linen. Add the linen sheets to the washing machine after the detergent dissolves. Pouring detergent directly on linen sheets can cause discoloration.
Step 5: Hang or line dry
The best way to dry linen bedding is by hanging or line drying. However, you can put some linen in the dryer on a low setting. You can also take the hybrid drying linen sheets approach—simply take your linen sheets out to air dry once they are 90% dry in the dryer.
How often should I wash my linen sheets?
Linen sheets should be washed the same amount as other bedding—once a week! It’s best to change your pillowcases and top and fitted sheets this often to maintain a healthy sleep environment. Don’t fret about breaking down the fibers. Linen sheets get softer with every wash.
Tip for washing linen bedding
When it comes down to how to wash linen sheets, follow the tips below for maximum results.
- Read the package instructions carefully. Make sure you look at the packaging, tag or product description online since some manufacturers have different directions.
- Select a gentle or delicate setting on your washer to keep the fibers intact.
- Use a cold water setting to reduce the risk of shrinkage.
- Avoid harsh cleaning products that include artificial brighteners that can discolor and weaken the linen.
- Wash linen bedding with other linen items. Do not wash linen sheets with anything that has a hook or zipper that may snag the fibers.
- Keep your load size to small or medium—overcrowding can impact how well your linen sheets are cleaned.
Can you put linen in the dryer?
You can put linen sheets in the dryer but only on a low setting. Make sure you read the instructions on your package because certain manufacturers have different directions.
Linen sheets dry faster than most materials, so keep an eye on them. Don’t turn your dryer on and leave for the day.
We recommend starting off slow with just under 10 minutes in the dryer on low. You can always put them in for a few minutes longer if they need.
Removing stains from linen
As soon as you notice a stain in your linen bedding, act quickly but do not apply any harmful bleach products to them.
Before washing your bedding, spot treat the stains with baking soda and 2–3 drops of distilled white vinegar.
For larger stains on linen sheets, use a few tablespoons of baking soda mixed with a cup of distilled white vinegar.
How to iron linen bedding
It’s not recommended that you iron linen sheets, comforters or duvets due to high heat on the fibers. If you are concerned with any creases, they should de-wrinkle as soon as you make your bed. If you do use an iron, make sure it’s only for a few seconds and you keep it at a low temperature.
How to properly store linen bedding
Knowing how to wash linen sheets is one thing, but storing them properly is important too. Linen bedding requires proper linen closet storage to protect its fibers and fabric from harmful items.
Here are a few things you should know about storing linen bedding.
- Keep the package your linen bedding came in and use it as a protective shield.
- Cloth bags are great for keeping dust mites away from your bedding.
- Make sure your bedding isn’t in direct sunlight to reduce the risk of discoloration.
- Store your linen bedding in a dry, cool spot.
- Do not keep your bedding in humid areas like the bathroom or laundry room.
- Stash your linen in a place that has good ventilation.
- Avoid storing them in plastic storage containers that can trap moisture and lead to the growth of bacteria.
Now that you know how to wash linen sheets, you are ready to tackle the caring process. Experience the luxury of owning the unbeatable features of linen bedding.
For more information on sheet sets, check out our guide on bedding 101.
