How to care for linen sheets for many years of peaceful slumber

July 31, 2023. If you own a pair of linen sheets, you probably can’t wait to get into bed at night! Linen sheets are breathable, durable and will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. Linen is a strong, natural fibre with a loose weave, making it a light and airy fabric.

Linen sheets are often more expensive than cotton. But if you look after them well, they’ll last longer than cotton, and give you many years of cosy and comfortable sleeps.

Follow these simple tips to keep your linen sheets in tip top condition.

How often do I wash my linen sheets?

Linen sheets will soften more with each wash. We recommend washing linen sheets every fortnight and the doona cover every 3-4 weeks. This depends on personal preference, but as with all linen and cotton fabrics, stretching out your washing intervals a little reduces wear and tear and keeps them in better condition.

Do I need a fabric softener?

Fabric softener is not recommended for linen sheets. Linen is a naturally loose and open weave fabric which gives it the breathability and cosiness it is known for and softens with each wash on its own. Fabric softener can also damage linen as it coats the fibres and reduces the lightness and breathability of the fabric.

What sort of wash cycle do I use?

Linen sheets only need a moderate or gentle cycle to protect the looser weave. Make sure the washing machine is filled with water to give the sheets plenty of room to circulate.

What temperature is best for linen sheets?

We advise not to wash linen sheets in hot water. In fact, all linens and cottons can deteriorate faster if washed in hot water, and warm water is just as effective for a good wash anyway. With plenty of water in the machine and a warm temperature, you’ll have clean sheets every time.

Related article: Here's how to keep your white sheets nice and white

Do I need to iron linen sheets?

That crumpled look is the natural, relaxed charm of linen. Once they’re dry, all you need to do is fold them neatly to avoid any extra creasing, and store them in a dark place away from the sun until you’re ready to use them again. Storing in a dark place prevents the colours from fading, and if the sheets are white, it will also prevent  them getting a yellow tinge.

Can I tumble dry linen sheets?

Linen is durable and natural, and yes tumble drying is perfectly fine. As with the water temperature, we recommend using a cool to warm setting to tumble dry your linen sheets. As soon as they come out of the dryer, fold them neatly to prevent any further creasing.

How do I remove stains from linen sheets?

The best way to approach stains is to get on top of them immediately. Don’t put the sheets in the dryer if the stains have not been removed properly, otherwise they can set.

You can use a stain remover or some detergent to gently dab the stain with warm water until it lifts a little from the fabric. Wait for 15 minutes and then handwash if you are spot-removing, or add to the washing machine.

Related article: How to remove the 7 most common stains

Your Pet’s items

We have dedicated washing machines for your pet blankets, bedding, pillows and clothing items. Each one of our laundromats has a dedicated machine clearly labelled “Pet Items Only”.

Visit a 24/7 Star Laundromat near you for state of the art washers and dryers

Our washing machine and dryers are commercial-grade industrial strength, state-of-the-art machines that are gentle on your linen sheets and efficient at the same time. You’ll have your sheets washed and dried in half and hour!

We’re open 24x7, with free WiFi and free detergent, with a dedicated machine for your pet items too. You’ll find us in convenient locations with plenty of parking.

Find a Star Laundromat near you!

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