When it comes to the bed, linen imparts an ideal balance of lovely elegance and laid-back comfort—but this distinct aesthetic belies a surprisingly low-maintenance material. Lightweight linen sheets and bedding are just as easy to care for as cotton, and the natural material is three times as strong, so it stands up better to frequent washing and use. Explore our Linen Bedding Care Guide to learn how to wash linen sheets and bedding, then find tips for taking care of your favorite linen layers.
How to Wash Linen Sheets and Bedding
The easiest way to wash linen sheets and other bedding is in a machine. Always refer to your product’s care instructions, but in general, you can follow these steps for how to wash linen sheets, duvet covers, quilts, blankets, and other bedding items:
Place items in the basin of your washing machine. When possible, wash linen bedding alone or with other linen pieces, and always wash like colors together.
Add only the recommended amount of detergent; too much can leave a residue on linen and damage the fabric’s fine fibers.
Select a cold, gentle cycle, and transfer sheets and bedding immediately to the dryer when the cycle completes.
How to Dry Linen Sheets and Bedding
Linen sheets and bedding can either be machine- or air-dried depending on your preferences. If you choose to tumble dry linen, do so on a low temperature setting to avoid damaging the fabric’s fibers. Or you can air dry linen sheets on an indoor or outdoor line if you prefer a crisper finish.
Linen Bedding Care Tips
Make the most of linen’s longevity and laid-back look with our top troubleshooting and care tips for this beloved material.
How to Soften Linen Sheets
Linen boasts many benefits, but the best thing about the fabric is that it just gets better over time. The pectin that binds the fibers gently breaks down when linen is washed, making the material softer and softer with each laundry load. Water is sufficient for this softening; avoid fabric softeners, which can build up on the fibers and actually have the opposite of the intended effect.
Machine-drying linen results in a softer hand than air-drying, which will make linen sheets crisp. The agitation of the sheets rubbing against themselves in the dryer will help to soften the fibers. To expedite the process, add wool dryer balls or clean tennis balls, which can shorten the amount of time the sheets need to dry and help soften their surface.
Do Linen Sheets Wrinkle?
When it comes to linen sheets and bedding, wrinkles are unavoidable. While we think these inevitable ripples add to the fabric’s relaxed appeal, you can minimize the appearance of wrinkles by removing linen duvet covers, sheets, and other bedding from the dryer as soon as the cycle completes. Neatly fold and store them immediately, or promptly put your linen layers back on the bed. Stubborn wrinkles can be removed with a warm iron as needed, but are prone to reappear.
Can You Bleach Linen Sheets?
Non-chlorine bleach can safely be used to remove stains from linen sheets and bedding, but it is best used sparingly. Avoid chlorine bleach, as its harsh chemicals can weaken linen’s fibers.
With proper care, linen bedding can last for decades, making this fine fabric a favorite option for heirloom items. Whether you’re laundering linen blankets or bed sheets, follow our tips for washing and drying. Then, explore our Inspiration Guide for additional bedding tips and tricks.