Updated July 2026
To care for linen, wash it in cool or lukewarm water on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent, skip the hot tumble dryer in favour of air drying, and let it soften naturally with every wash. Linen is strong and long-lasting, and it rewards gentle, simple care. It creases by nature, so you can either press it lightly while slightly damp or, as many prefer, wear the living crease as part of its character. Handled this way, a linen piece lasts for years and only becomes softer and more yours with time.
- Wash in cool or lukewarm water on a gentle cycle, with like colours.
- Use a mild detergent, and avoid bleach and fabric softener.
- Do not overload the machine; linen washes best with room to move.
- Air dry where you can, or use a low heat setting; high heat is hard on the fibre.
- To smooth it, iron while slightly damp on a medium-hot setting, or leave the crease and wear it.
Creases are not a flaw
The most common worry with linen is wrinkling, but the crease is the fibre being itself. You can iron it out for a crisper look, or let it fall naturally for the soft, lived-in quality that suits templewear. Either way, gentle washing and air drying are what keep linen at its best over the years.
Frequently asked questions
How do I wash linen?
Wash in cool or lukewarm water on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent and like colours. Avoid bleach and fabric softener, and do not overload the machine.
Can I put linen in the dryer?
Air drying is best. If you use a dryer, keep it on low heat, as high heat is hard on the fibre and can shorten the life of the garment.
How do I stop linen wrinkling?
Iron it while slightly damp on a medium-hot setting for a crisp look. Many prefer to leave the natural crease, which is part of linen's character and suits templewear.