Linen is one of the best fabrics for warm weather — breathable, light, and it only gets softer with age. A little care goes a long way toward keeping it that way.
Wash Cold, Wash Gently
Use a cold or lukewarm cycle on a gentle setting. Hot water breaks down linen fibers over time and can cause shrinking.
Skip the Dryer When You Can
Air-drying is best. If you do use a dryer, choose a low-heat setting and take the shirt out slightly damp to avoid over-drying, which makes linen brittle.
Embrace (or Manage) the Wrinkles
A few creases are part of linen's natural character — that's part of the appeal. If you prefer a crisper look, iron on a medium-hot setting while the shirt is still a little damp.
Store It Right
Hang your linen shirts rather than folding them in a drawer for long periods — this helps them keep their shape and reduces deep creasing.
Treat Stains Quickly
Linen absorbs spills fast. Blot (don't rub) and treat stains as soon as possible for the best chance of a full recovery.
Looked after properly, a good linen shirt only gets better with time — softer, lighter, and more comfortably yours with every wear.