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Linen: Ironing & Storing

Linen: Ironing & Storing
A Guide to Linen Care
Linen’s natural texture can vary, and some people prefer their linen to be slightly wrinkled and imperfect. However, others prefer linen clothing and textiles to be crisper and smoother in texture. In this case ironing is ideal to achieve this. If you would like to iron your linens, do so while the fabric is slightly damp, iron on the reverse side, and use medium to high heat depending on whether the fabric is pure linen or a blended fibre composition. A steam setting is the best way to remove any pesky creases, or to create a neat fold. Instead of sliding the iron, lift and press it in sections for the best results. For dark linen and embroidered or pressed areas that are more delicate, it is recommended to use a pressing cloth made of 100% unbleached cotton to act as a barrier between the iron and the linen.
Given the natural properties of linen, extra care should be taken whilst storing to avoid damage and mould from moisture. Make sure to keep in a cool dry place. Direct sunlight can cause naturally dyed linen to fade. Keep flat to avoid unwanted wrinkles or creasing. Cedar oil and blocks can be used to deter pesky clothes moth, who unsurprisingly are very attracted to linen and can cause serious damage.

Further Information

Higher Heat Tolerance

Linen is in fact better at withstanding higher heat temperatures than cotton and some irons will even have a ‘linen’ setting on them. This is because of the strength and heat resistance naturally present in flax fibres. Only use the linen setting on irons if you are ironing 100% linen fibres, as blended textiles might incorporate other fibres that could damage under this intense heat setting.

Mist

If you want to iron linen fabric that is already dry but wrinkled, you can dampen it by spraying or misting with water from a spray bottle. This will help make the ironing more effective at smoothing wrinkles and refreshing the linen back to a crisp bouncy texture. You can also use a steamer or hang linen in a steamy bathroom after taking a shower to relax any wrinkles that may have formed.
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