How to Wash and Care for Cotton-Linen Fabric

Washing cotton-linen: the basic rules

• Wash cool — 30–40 °C in a gentle cycle protects the flax fibres from weakening.
• Use mild detergent — avoid chlorine bleach and heavy optical brighteners; they can yellow natural fibres.
• Turn inside out — reduces abrasion on the surface and protects colour.
• Wash like colours together — natural dyes can bleed slightly on the first wash.

Drying and ironing

• Air-dry in the shade — line drying is gentler than tumble drying and prevents excessive shrinkage.
• Remove while slightly damp — this reduces creases and makes ironing easier.
• Iron while damp — a warm (not hot) iron over a slightly damp fabric gives the crispest finish.

Dealing with creases and stains

Cotton-linen creases naturally — that is part of its relaxed look. If you want a smoother finish, iron it damp or use a light steam. For stains:

1. Blot the stain immediately; never rub it deeper.
2. Pre-treat with a gentle stain remover before washing.
3. Rinse thoroughly and air-dry.

Care for upholstery and home textiles

For curtains, cushions and upholstery covers, vacuum regularly and spot-clean with a damp cloth. Loose covers should be washed on a gentle cycle and re-fitted while slightly damp to avoid distortion. With the right care, cotton-linen products soften with every wash and can last for years.