Linen is one of the oldest and most sustainable fabrics in the world — and with the right care, a well-made linen piece can last for many years, growing softer with every wash. Here's how to keep your linen looking its best.
Washing linen the right way
Linen loves cool water. Wash your linen garments in cold or lukewarm water (below 30°C) on a gentle machine cycle, or by hand. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach, which weakens natural fibres and dulls hand-dyed colours.
- Wash similar colours together, especially for the first few washes.
- Turn garments inside out to protect the surface.
- Skip the fabric softener — linen softens naturally over time.
Drying without damage
Air-drying is best. Hang or lay your linen flat in the shade; long hours in direct sun can fade natural dyes. Avoid high-heat tumble drying, which can shrink and stiffen the fabric. A quick low-heat tumble to soften, then air-dry, works beautifully.
Ironing and storage
Linen wrinkles — that's part of its relaxed character. If you prefer a crisp look, iron while slightly damp on a medium-warm setting, ideally on the inside of the garment. Store linen somewhere cool and dry with room to breathe; avoid sealed plastic, which traps moisture.
The beauty of natural dyes
Every Elli.aM piece is hand-dyed, so slight variations in colour are normal and unique to your garment. Wash gently and only when needed — natural dyes deepen and soften with mindful care.
Ready to add a piece that lasts? Explore our linen collection and organic cotton styles, designed and made in Chiang Mai.
