subject: Fine Linen Care [print this page] Luxury linens are designed to be enjoyed for many years. Proper care will ensure the longevity and luxury of your linens.
Home laundering is recommended for most all fine linens, except where dry cleaning is indicated. It is extremely important when washing your linens to thoroughly rinse them in cold water. Poor rinsing can cause damage by leaving detergent residue that will scorch when ironed or turn yellow with time.
Always pre-wash new linens before use. Avoid overloading the machine to prevent breaking long staple in Egyptian cotton.Allow washing machine to fill up and begin agitating before you add detergent. Unless your linens are extremely soiled, use half the commercial detergent, which will extend the life of your bed linens.Cotton, pure linen, or cotton/linen blend, bedding should be washed in warm water on a gentle cycle, with a final cold rinse.If pre-soaking is necessary, it should be in cold water. Liquid fabric softener can damage the cotton fibers.
Caution: Certain facial creams and body lotions contain ingredients such as peroxide, bleaching agents, oils or acids. Some of these agents may cause discoloration upon laundering. If you use such products, cover your pillow with a terry towel.
Set your dryer on permanent press, which has a cool-down cycle at the end that helps reduce wrinkles. Most dryers have an air cycle that simply tumbles its contents without heat. If sheets are promptly removed it will help prevent wrinkling. Shaking damp linens out before drying on low heat will also reduce wrinkles and quicken drying. If desired, press linens while slightly damp on the reverse side of the fabric using a steam iron on the hot/warm setting.Smooth them out and fold carefully.
Shrinkage will occur with all linens made of natural fibers. The amount of shrinkage ranging from 4 to 10 percent depends on the fibers used. The sizing of most products allows for expected shrinkage. To minimize shrinkage, avoid hot water washing and high heat drying, and never "over-dry" your linens. As they become older and softer, you will find that they wrinkle less.
Since luxury linens are more expensive compared to traditional linens, they should be given proper care in order to withstand wear and tear for a longer period. The more they are laundered the softer they become. With proper care you will enjoy them for many years to come.
