Our Blog | Love Linen The Label — Linen Clothing

Linen is a naturally smooth fabric, resistant to lint, highly breathable, drys quickly and is absorbent and hypoallergenic. Linen is a very stable fiber and does not have elastic capabilities, it is an amazing quality from the point of view that quality linen clothing with never loose its shape or stretch - no other natural fiber can boast this! 

When selecting linen, particularly with linens popularity increasing due to its earth friendly and natural properties, it is good to know cheap linen vs quality linen.

Quality Linen Is Not Itchy or Scratchy 

The biggest tell tail to cheap linen is that it will feel itchy and scratchy. Quality linen is always comfortable on the skin and becomes naturally soft and silky with wash and wear. If linen feels rough or scratchy it is because it is made from a lesser shorter linen fiber of low quality. It may also feel not as sturdy or strong and will be prone to easily tearing and feel 'weak' when pulled. 

Watch Out For Existing Folds 

Check for points of wear in existing folds, at the same time however if linen is displaying lack or no natural creases, and remains suspiciously crinkle free, it is likely a cheap blend of linen.  

Check For Weaving Errors 

Look at the consistency and quality of weave. Do not worry about the lack or presence of 'slubs' (a combination of thinner and thicker threads) they are almost always intentionally included in order to keep the fibers intact and creates a 'natural linen' textural look. Very fine linen will likely have no slubs as they will have uniformity of much finer fibers of a consistent diameter.  

Consistency of Colour

The colour should be even throughout the fabric. Linen is very difficult to dye so you can usually easily tell if corners have been cut or if the fabric appears to have any yellowing or un-uniform colour. 

Identify Country Of Origin

European linen, particularly that from Belgium, Ireland and Italy is amongst the worlds most highly regarded quality linen. It really is a fabric where you do get exactly what you pay for. 

1. Too Much Sun

Linen is a natural fiber, to dry or to store it is best kept away from direct sunlight which can 'bake' and in turn 'break' linens natural fibers. After washing linen is best dried inside or in good shade, flat or on hanger, it is best to shake the harsh crinkles from washing while still damp. Most natural fiber clothing benefit from being cared for in this way and will last much longer.

2. Overcrowded Washing

Always keep your machine loads at a comfortable level, with linen it is best that only linen is washed together, other fibers or rough clothes may aggravate your linen clothing. Avoid using hot water or harsh detergents, linens needs are eco friendly too - a cold gentle wash with mild eco friendly detergents work best.

3. Plastic Clothing Covers

We are very passionate about plastic free living. In addition, plastic clothing covers or storage plastic bags inhibit your linen clothing from breathing. As a natural fiber, linen needs to breath to prevent yellowing or mildew growth. 

You can always store in cloth natural fiber bags or separate garments using acid-free tissue paper. Ensure your wardrobe space is well ventilated.

4. Letting Stains Sit

Addressing stains as soon as possible will ensure a longer life of your linen clothing. Very often this can be achieved with a spot-stain removing method so as not to have to wash your clothing every time a stain or bit of food makes it's way onto your linen.

An effective eco friendly method is using a sprinkle of bi-carb or baking soda, add a few sprays or drops of vinegar and gently blot away with a natural fiber cloth. Bi-carb soda and vinegar also make a fantastic natural fabric softener and stain remover to add to your wash!

5. Always Ironing

The wonderful thing about quality linen, is that it gets softer and silkier with every wash. Quality linen clothing is known for its natural drape and softness, becoming more fluid with time. Linen is the only natural fiber which does not deteriorate or breakdown due to washing and wearing, it has a significantly stronger fiber which is why good quality linen clothing is a very prized thing indeed. Linen has natural creases which add to its character and inherently unique natural look. You will prolong the life of your linen clothing if you do not iron - I repeat - no need for ironing.