1: Wash your hands
The gentlest way to clean linen is to wash it by hand. Fill a clean sink or bucket with warm water and add a small amount of mild cleaner. Soak the linen in the solution for about 30 minutes. After soaking, gently swirl the fabric with your hands, then rinse with cold water. Avoid wringing out the fabric and instead gently squeeze out excess water. Hang the clothes in the shade to dry.
2: Machine wash
If you prefer to use a washing machine, use a delicate or gentle cycle of cold water. Make sure to use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softener, as it can damage the flax fibers. After the washing cycle, hang the clothes in a cool place to dry. Avoid using dryers, as the heat will shrink and damage the fabric.
3: Dry cleaning
For particularly delicate or ornate linen, dry cleaning may be the best option. Take your clothes to a professional dry cleaning service and tell them the fabric is linen.
4: Remove stains
To remove stains from linen clothes, it is important to act quickly. For fresh stains, gently blot the affected area with a clean cloth. Don't rub the stain, and for more stubborn stains, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse it off with cold water.
