Laundering Irish Linen
Irish Linen is a very robust fibre and unlike most textiles increases in strength when wet, which is why it washes so well. Each time Irish Linen is laundered, a subtle molecular change occurs around each fibre, resulting in the fabric’s renewal of its smooth, lustrous surface.
Unlike synthetic fibres, Irish Linen can be washed at high temperatures (95ºC), if preferred, but the following procedure is recommended.
On an automatic machine, a 60ºC wash is very effective using a biological detergent. Once the rinsing and spinning cycles are complete the linen article should be dried to slight dampness, spray starched and steam ironed at a medium to hot setting.
Fine hand embroidered linen should be hand washed at 40ºC.
Irish Linen should NEVER be tumble-dried or ironed when dry.
Storing Irish Linen
Irish Linen is naturally mothproof and can be safely stored under normal conditions. Slatted shelves will allow air to circulate.
Irish Linen should not be stored either in a cupboard through which heating pipes run, or, in cedar lined drawers, as they can discolour linen. If by mischance it does become discoloured, wash as soon as possible and dry in the sun to whiten it again.
