Linen is a durable and noble material that effortlessly and elegantly meets the needs of modern living. In linen fabrics, I appreciate their ability to soften over time, becoming even more comfortable with each wash. The signs of use that appear on linen can be seen as part of its unique history, adding character rather than being a reason to discard it.
Linen fabrics with digital prints, along with the products made from them, can maintain their longevity if properly cared for. Choosing a suitable, gentle laundry detergent and a delicate fabric washing program is key to keeping them in good condition. To assist you in this process, I have prepared a few useful tips and instructions for laundering.
How to care for printed fabrics
Although linen has high resistance to abrasion, it is best to wash it as gently as possible. Many detergents available on the market contain optical brighteners that are not suitable for washing printed fabrics as they may cause discoloration. Avoid detergents that contain phosphates as well. Instead, opt for natural soap or biodegradable laundry detergent.
Before laundering, ensure that you fully unfold the fabric. It is advisable to wash products with similar colors together (especially light-colored ones). Select a delicate fabric washing program, such as for wool and cashmere, set the temperature to 30°C, and use a spin speed of 400 revolutions per minute. If you use a tumble dryer, set it to a low speed and remove it while it is still slightly damp.
To prevent damage to the fibers, it is crucial not to overdry linen fabrics or twist them while they are wet. Whenever possible, air dry the linen, but be cautious of direct sunlight, as it may lead to fading of the fabric’s print. When ironing linen fabrics, ensure that the temperature does not exceed 200°C.
Laundry instructions for linen fabrics
- Use natural soap or biodegradable laundry detergent.
- Select a delicate fabric washing program, such as for wool and cashmere.
- Avoid phosphates, bleaches, and strong stain removers.
- Refrain from scrubbing or rubbing wet fabrics with prints.
- Wash fabrics at a temperature of 30°C (maximum 40°C).
- Spin fabrics at low speeds (up to 400 revolutions per minute).
