How to Soften your Linen Sheets
Linen bedding is one of the oldest fibres in existence and has been used to make bedding for generations. There are so many reasons to love linen bedding, it's breathable, sustainable and hypo-allergenic to name a few (see why linen), but one question we get asked regularly:
Is linen bedding soft?
The honest answer is yes, mostly.
Let me clarify that. In my opinion, linen is very soft and very comfortable, it just has more texture than other fabrics. It definitely feels 'different' if you are used to cotton sheets and may take a little time to settle in. But yes, linen bedding is soft.
The Linen Project bedding has been stonewashed for that added initial softness, it feels luxurious and as my good friend once said 'I feel like a real grown up when I sleep in my linen sheets'.
One thing you can be certain of is that linen bedding will naturally soften over time and get better and more comfortable with age. But for those of us that don't like to wait, here are a few tips to speed up the process...
1. Wash. Dry. Sleep. Repeat.
Finally something you can do while your sleeping! Just by using your sheets and washing them regularly they will be softening over time. One of the natural beauties of linen! To speed up the process, simply wash a few extra times. Use a mild or even no detergent and definitely no fabric softener. Remember to follow the care guide
2. Baking Soda
Add half a cup of baking soda to your wash every cycle, this will regulate the pH level in the water and help soften your fabric. Water with a pH that is not too acidic or too alkaline will suspend detergent and mineral deposits in turn preventing build up onto your sheets.
3. Dryer Balls
Although we recommend line drying in the shade for linen longevity, tumble drying with dryer balls will speed up your path to softer sheets. Adding 2-4 dryer balls in with your sheets will help soften them. Make sure not to overload the dryer and use a low heat setting. The dryer balls need space to roll around your linen, loosening and separating the fibres.
4. Buy pre-washed, stonewashed quality linen
Like our linen! There are lots of linen bedding choices out there and not all linen bedding is made equally. For a head start on premium soft linen choose The Linen Project , it's stonewashed and snuggly soft from your very first sleep. Lie back, relax and enjoy the linen aging journey.
