Sheet Care 101
Just like any good quality garment, fine linens need the right care to keep them soft and luxurious. Don't worry, it's NOT HARD, it's actually VERY EASY...you just have to follow the instructions!
First, always check the care label before laundering, but here are some important basics to remember when washing.
- Pre-wash your new linens before using for the softest result. Fine fabrics are generally not pre-washed so this first wash is important for setting threads, preserving the fabric's beauty, and prolonging its life. Be sure to fully unfold, set the machine to include a cold pre-soak, and use minimal liquid detergent.
- Never use fabric softener as it coats and weakens natural fibers. Your luxury linens will soften naturally with frequent use and additional washings.
- Never use chlorine bleach as it also weakens natural fibers and may cause them to yellow.
- Use a mild liquid detergent. Do not pour detergent directly onto the fabric; rather, add it to the water as the wash tub fills. For proper rinsing, you need only use half of the recommended amount of detergent.
- Most linens can be washed on a gentle cycle in warm water, with a cold water rinse.
- Separate linens into light and dark colors
- Launder linens separately from towels and items with buttons and zippers as these can damage fibers and fabrics.
- Do not overload the washing machine, as this can cause unnecessary abrasion to the fabric. Try washing the fitted sheet alone and the flat sheet and cases in a separate load.
- To machine dry, gently shake out and smooth damp linens before placing in the dryer. Unravel any items that may have twisted in the washer.
- Never use dryer sheets as it coats and weakens natural fibers.
- Avoid overloading dryer so items will dry evenly. Try drying fitted sheets and duvets separate from other items.
- Set dryer to the lowest heat, high settings will weaken the natural fibers and increase shrinkage.
- Remove items from dyer promptly and while still slightly damp; smooth and let air dry before storing, or press with an iron while damp to remove any remaining wrinkles.
- Since natural fibers wrinkle, you may choose to iron depending upon your preferences.