Linen shirts are a summer wardrobe must-have lightweight, breathable, and ease your mind stylish. But when washing them, a big question comes to mind can my linen shirts be machine washed? And the answer is yes but with some caution.
we will guide you through how to machine wash your linen shirts safely without compromising their quality, texture, and color.
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Table of Content: 1. Use Cold or Lukewarm Water 2. Select the Gentle Cycle 3. Choose a Mild Detergent 4. Wash with Similar Items 5. Skip the Fabric Softener 6. Air Dry for Best Results 7. Iron While Slightly Damp (Optional) |
Why Linen Requires Special Care
Linen is produced from the flax plant and is rather durable and has a distinct texture. However, as opposed to man-made fabrics, it's rather fragile when damp and can shrink or wrinkle if improperly washed. For this reason, it's necessary to give your linen shirts a bit more TLC despite using a washing machine.
How to Machine Wash Your Linen Shirt
1. Use Cold or Lukewarm Water:
Always use cold or lukewarm water ideally below 30°C. Hot water is responsible for linen garments shrinking or losing their shape. A cool wash will wash your shirt but preserve the fabric.
2. Select the Gentle Cycle:
Your machine's delicate or gentle cycle is the best friend of your linen shirt. It reduces the agitation and spinning that would stretch or weaken the fibers.
3. Choose a Mild Detergent:
Avoid bleach, brighteners, and high strength chemical detergents. Instead, use a mild, liquid detergent that is eco-friendly and linen-safe. Harsh detergents will destroy the color and softness of your shirt.
4. Wash with Similar Items:
To minimize friction and avoid damaging the shirt, wash your linen shirt with other light fabrics. Do not wash it with jeans, heavy towels, or clothes with zippers that could catch the fine fabric.
5. Skip the Fabric Softener:
Linen softens with each use naturally as it is washed, so no artificial softeners are needed. Such chemicals can cause a residue on the fabric, making it less breathable and changing its natural texture.
6. Air-Dry for Best Results:
After washing, air dry your linen shirt. Suspend it on a padded hanger or place it flat on a towel in a sun-free area. Never expose bright-colored linen to direct sunlight, as it will lead to fading. Never expose linen to high heat from a tumble dryer because it might shrink or warp the material.
7. Iron While Slightly Damp (Optional):
If you prefer a crisp, smooth appearance, iron your linen shirt when it still has some moisture to it. Iron using a medium heat with steam, and always iron the shirt inside out. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed look, you can go with the natural creases that linen develops.
When Should You Hand Wash?
Although machine washing is fine for most linen shirts, hand washing may be preferable if your shirt is:
- Decorated or embroidered
- Thin or filmy
- Hand-painted or printed delicately
In each of these situations, a careful hand wash will prolong the life of your shirt and maintain it in original condition.
Linen Loves Care
Linen shirts are an intelligent and chic investment, and proper care keeps them a wardrobe staple for years to come. Washing your linen shirt in a machine is safe and convenient just be sure to use cool water, gentle cycles, and forego the strong chemicals.
At LinenWear, we create our linen shirts to wear on a daily basis practical, breathable, and easy care. So go ahead, wear them frequently, wash them thoroughly, and allow linen to work its natural magic with each wash.
