Looking After Linen

The better we care for something, the longer it lasts. As the sun continues to shine, we are turning our attention to one of summer’s most versatile fabrics: linen. Here is everything you need to know to keep it looking its best.

Wash linen at a cool temperature

Every Lavender Hill linen piece has been pre-washed to limit shrinkage, but it is still advisable to wash your garment at no higher than 30°C. A cooler wash helps reduce fading and saves on energy bills. A cooler cycle is also likely to have fewer spins, which reduces the chance of the fibres being damaged if linen is over-handled.

Use non-bio detergent

Avoid harsh chemicals, particularly bleach, and fabric softeners. Choose a gentle, non-bio detergent, or even a baby-friendly one. Again, this helps to prevent damage to the fibres.

Lie flat after washing

Linen dries quickly, which makes it a good choice for travelling. Once it is washed, dry it flat so it holds its shape and needs less ironing.

Iron on the linen setting

If you do iron your garment, use the linen setting (or a medium to high heat) and iron inside out. Always try an inconspicuous section first. We recommend starting on a cooler setting and working up, rather than burning your garment with an iron that is too hot.

Why we love linen

Linen is pretty easy to look after, which is one reason we love it. It is made from flax fibres, often softens over time, and is breathable, so it feels cool in summer.