If you’ve invested in table linens, you want to be careful how you clean, care for, and store them. Nice table linens can last generations if treated correctly.
How you treat your linens will depend on what type of material they are. Some are actual linen made of a natural fiber, while others are blended with polyester for easier care. If your linens have a tag that instructs you on how to care for them, you’re in luck. If they don’t, then you’re better off safe than sorry. Treat them as if they are real linen if you’re not sure.
Real linen is a fine fabric that must be treated carefully. It is a natural fiber, so you will need to treat it as such. Natural fibers, in general, can shrink, lose shape, and break if treated harshly. Don’t wash natural fibers in hot water. You will also want to avoid excessive agitation and harsh detergents. Most washing machines have a low, hand-wash setting that is fine for table linens. If you’re worried, you can use your bathtub.
Wash gently in cool water. Use detergent that is dye-free to avoid stains and mineral deposits. Some people prefer to use distilled water on white or light colored fabrics to avoid deposits and discolorations. If possible, use a detergent that is meant for delicate fabrics or a small amount of baby shampoo. Very gently move the fabric around to loosen stains. Drain the tub and then refill several times to wash away detergents. Never squeeze or wring out delicate fabrics. You could cause it to shrink or break the delicate fibers causing runs.
When the water is drained, soak up as much water as you can with towels. If possible, hang the linens outside to dry. If this isn’t possible, you may be able to put your linens in the dryer on a low setting. Try to take them out before they are completely dry. Hang them over the shower rod if you don’t have somewhere outdoors to hang them.
Ironing your linens is best done when they are slightly damp. Real linen has to be ironed on a high setting, but it will also burn easily. Steam helps to avoid burning. Starching your linens will help them to repel liquids and other stains, while decreasing the need to be ironed. You can use liquid starch in the rinse water, or a spray starch when ironing.
To store your linens, make sure that you let them get some air. You can install a hanging rod high up in your linen closet and hang them on specialty linen hangers, large pants hangers, blanket hangers, or comforter hangers. A non-slip bar is preferred. If you fold your linens, store them in a pillowcase or other breathable bag. Never store linen in an airtight container or plastic.
With proper care, your linens will last for years and years to come.
About the Author: Sam Morton is on the staff of USA Hanger, a leading online resource for wood hangers, coat hangers and all types of clothes hangers. They are known for the excellent quality and value of their hangers. For more information, please visit http://www.usahanger.com/.
