How to Properly Care for Your 100% Flax Linen

Twice as durable as cotton, 100% flax linen bedding will serve you well for years and years, if cared for properly - properly being the operative word.

Still, product care is simple. Flax has been cultivated and used to create textiles for thousands of years, and people were enjoying the benefits of linen long before the existence of washing machines and complex modern detergents. Just a few simple steps will ensure that your bedding will remain fresh and vibrant for years to come, and continue to provide the perfect sleeping environment for you.

How to wash flax linen

Wash your bedding in lukewarm or cold water using a mild liquid detergent to protect the fibres. Avoid using detergents which feature colour brighteners as these formulas will weaken the fibres of your bedding and may discolour it. If you are unsure as to whether your detergent is appropriate, test it on a small area of the linen before washing the entire piece.

It is preferable to wash your linen in soft water. If your water is hard and has a high lime content, consider adding a softening agent, particularly when cleaning darker colours.

You are able to machine wash your bedding but choose a gentle cycle. Wash items of a similar colour together and don’t overload your machine – the more water, the better as linen is highly absorbent.

Whether washing your linen by hand or by machine, always ensure that it is thoroughly rinsed in plenty of water to remove all traces of soap, detergent and residual soiling. This will prevent the formation of age spots which are caused by oxidation.

What about dry cleaning?

Don't dry clean your linen as the fibres may react badly to some of the chemicals used in the dry cleaning process, and become weakened as a result.

How to dry flax linen bedding

Hang your linen to dry naturally or machine dry on a cool setting. If using a tumble dryer, remove the bedding whilst it is still a little damp and hang it or lie it flat to complete the drying process.

What about ironing linen bedding?

Great news: there’s no need to iron flax linen bedding unless it has become excessively crushed. The natural creases and crumples are what give the fabric its unique character and relaxed yet refined feel. Many of the creases will smooth out once your linen is back on your bed. But, if you really feel the need to iron it, of course you can. Iron when the bedding is still a little damp using a steam iron on a moderate setting. Iron the wrong side first and then the right side, and only iron darker colours on the wrong side.

How to store flax linen bedding

Always store your linen in a cool, dry place. Never store your bedding in plastic bags and when it is time to use it, air it well before dressing your bed. All of our sets are packaged in sustainable 100% Flax Linen storage sacks, which are a great option for your favourite pieces, too.

Discover our range of luxurious and accessible 100% French flax linen bedding here.