How to: Launder table linens

How to: Minimize wrinkles
•    Choose waffle weave, wool, corduroy, knit or velvet table linens to spend less time ironing.
•    When storing, fold tablecloths lengthwise and roll them onto gift-wrapping tubes.
•    For fabrics that wrinkle easily, hang on a towel- or fabric-covered hanger.
•    Unless you’re going to use the item soon, it’s best not to iron right before storing.
•    Iron linen fabric when it is damp from steam or a sprinkling of water, as ironing the dry fabric can cause the fibres to break down over time.

10 tips for prolonging the life of your linens
1 Treat stains as soon as possible. The longer the stain remains on the fabric, the harder it will be to remove.

2 Avoid using fabric softener or dryer sheets with your napkins; it adds a waxy layer to the linens, making them less absorbent.

3 Read the care instructions when buying new table linens. Buy machine-washable and dryable ones for every day usage.

4 Treat stains from the opposite side from which the spill occurred, pushing the stain out as opposed to forcing it into the fabric.

5 Blot liquid spills with a white cloth or paper towel as the dyes on coloured cloths can bleed, making a messy situation worse.

6 Don’t iron or tumble dry a stained fabric as it will cause the stain to set.

7 Keep linens out of plastic to prevent yellowing.

8 Remove linens from the dryer before they get too toasty, as over time excessive heat will cause the fabric to break down. Linens should be dried on a low heat setting.

9 Use cool or warm water, not hot, to prevent shrinking or setting a stain when laundering your linens.

10 Don’t mix different stain removal products together as they could react in unexpected ways!

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