How to Care for Linen So It Lasts All Summer

Linen has a reputation for being high-maintenance. It isn't — it's just different. Treat it right and it gets softer and more beautiful with every wash, for years. Here's exactly how we care for our own linen, from the wash to the wardrobe.

Washing

Machine wash on a gentle or delicate cycle in cold or lukewarm water, and always with similar colors. Cold water protects both the fiber and any natural dye, so it stays true for longer. Use a mild detergent and skip the fabric softener — it coats the fibers and actually works against linen's natural texture and breathability. If you prefer a gentler routine, hand washing works beautifully too.

Drying

Air drying is best. Reshape the garment while it's damp and hang it or lay it flat, and it will dry with minimal wrinkling. If you do use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and pull the piece out while it's still slightly damp — finish the drying on a hanger. High heat is the one thing that will shorten linen's lifespan, so it's worth avoiding.

Ironing (Or Skipping It)

Part of linen's appeal is the relaxed, lived-in wrinkle — you don't have to iron out every crease for it to look intentional. When you do want a crisper finish, iron on the linen or high-heat setting while the fabric is still a little damp, ideally on the reverse side or with a pressing cloth to protect any color or print. A hand-held steamer is a gentler alternative that smooths the fabric without flattening its natural texture.

Storing

Fold heavier linen pieces and hang lighter ones, and give everything a little breathing room in the closet — linen likes airflow. Avoid plastic garment bags, which trap moisture, and keep pieces out of direct sunlight for long stretches to protect the color.

Why the Extra Care Is Worth It

Linen is a natural, long-lasting fiber, and small habits — cold water, gentle drying, a little airflow in storage — are what let a piece go the distance instead of thinning out after a season. It's a small routine for a fabric that will outlast almost everything else in your closet.

Have a question about caring for a specific piece? Reach out to us — we're happy to share size-specific and fabric-specific notes for anything we carry.