At Verge, there’s no fabric we enjoy wearing more over the warmer months than linen. With its natural texture and effortlessly glamorous style, it’s a fabric that lends itself just as well to beautiful flowing dresses as it does to structured jackets and shirts
But every year, we speak to women who have been putting off buying linen because they fear it’s too high-maintenance. We’re here to dispel any myths you’ve heard about caring for linen clothing, and show you how your patience can be rewarded once you understand the basics.
Why Choose Linen?
Like cotton, linen is naturally lightweight and breathable, so it allows the air to circulate and keep you cool on warmer days. Because it's made from stiff flax fibres, it wrinkles very easily, which can take a bit of mental adjustment to accept, but once you do, you’ll see that wrinkles are all part of linen’s natural charm. Besides, if cared for correctly, linen does soften over time while retaining its strength, making it a fabric you'll enjoy wearing season after season.
How to Wash, Dry and Iron Linen Clothing
Good linen care starts with reading the label. Always check the care instructions for any specific recommendations before washing your new garment.
Washing
- Linen can generally be washed in a washing machine, but use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water to prevent shrinking.
- For delicate linen, hand wash in cold water.
- Opt for a mild, liquid detergent designed for delicate fabrics.
- Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can weaken the fibres.
- Don't overload your washing machine.
- Wash linen items separately or with similar fabrics so they have enough room to move freely.
- Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all detergent, which can leave the fabric feeling stiff if left behind.
Drying
- The best method is to air dry linen by laying it flat on a clean towel or hanging it up to dry. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can distort its shape.
- If you choose to tumble dry, use a low heat setting and remove the garment while it's still slightly damp to help minimise wrinkles.
Ironing
When ironing linen clothing, you’ll find you get the best results if the fabric is still slightly damp. A medium to high heat setting with plenty of steam will help smooth away creases more easily. Use a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric to avoid direct heat, which can shine or scorch the linen.
Remember too that linen's natural wrinkles are part of its character, so don't feel you need perfectly pressed garments every time you wear them.
Storage
Store linen garments in a cool, dry place. Avoid using hangers for long-term storage, as this can cause stretching. Instead, fold your garments or use padded hangers if needed.
Common Linen Care Mistakes
Even though linen is a fairly tough fabric, there are a few good habits that will keep it looking its best.
Avoid exposing linen to extremes, whether that’s hot washing, hot tumble drying or harsh chemicals. Washing linen in hot water can increase the risk of shrinkage, while over-drying can leave the fabric feeling stiff. Using harsh detergents or bleach will weaken the natural fibres over time.
Overloading the washing machine is another mistake to avoid, as it will prevent your garments from rinsing properly and increase creasing.
By following these guidelines, you can keep your linen garments looking fresh and stylish.
Explore New Arrivals
Explore Verge’s latest collection to discover timeless pieces crafted from premium fabrics, including lightweight styles perfect for every season. With the right care, they'll be favourites in your wardrobe for many years to come.
