Does Linen Shrink in the Dryer? Here’s What You Need to Know

Linen is a natural fibre renowned for its breathability, lightness, and timeless elegance. It is often considered a go-to fabric for the warmer months, and rightfully so—its airy texture and ability to absorb moisture make it ideal for hot weather. However, there is one crucial thing you may need to consider when caring for linen: Does it shrink in the dryer?

Does Linen Shrink in the Dryer?

Yes, linen can shrink in the dryer. But do not worry just yet—it is not as simple as throwing a pair of linen trousers into the dryer and having them shrink beyond recognition. While linen is a natural fibre that can shrink, it is not guaranteed, and how much it shrinks depends on a few factors. Understanding these factors can help you avoid the dreaded linen shrinkage and keep your clothes looking as fresh as the day you bought them.

Why Does Linen Shrink?

Linen is made from the fibres of the flax plant, which is a relatively stiff material compared to other fabrics like cotton. The process of turning flax into linen involves breaking down the fibres, then spinning and weaving them into fabric. This creates a structure that is more prone to shrinking when exposed to heat and moisture. The main reason for linen’s shrinkage lies in the moisture content of the fabric.

When linen is washed, the fibres absorb water, causing them to swell and expand. The fibres are in a more relaxed state when wet, and once the item is dried—especially in the heat of a tumble dryer—the moisture evaporates, and the fabric contracts. The combination of heat and moisture in a dryer can lead to this contraction, causing your linen garments to shrink.

The good news is that this shrinkage is usually minimal. However, if your linen item has not been pre-shrunk during the manufacturing process, you might notice more shrinkage after the first few washes. In fact, linen items can shrink up to 10% of their original size during the first wash and drying cycle, which is something to consider when caring for your linen clothes.

Factors That Influence Shrinkage

Several factors influence how much linen shrinks in the dryer, and understanding them can help you better care for your pieces:

1.     Heat

Heat is the primary cause of shrinkage in linen. The higher the temperature in the dryer, the more likely the fibres are to contract. While linen can tolerate some heat, it is best to avoid high-heat settings on your dryer, as this can cause more significant shrinkage and potentially damage the fabric.

2.     Moisture

As mentioned, moisture plays a crucial role in the shrinking process. Linen absorbs water when washed, and if the fabric is not dried correctly, it can shrink significantly. This is why air-drying linen or using a low-heat setting is often the best method to avoid shrinkage.

3.     Fabric Construction

The way linen fabric is woven also impacts its tendency to shrink. Looser weaves, such as those found in certain linen shirts or pants, are more prone to shrinkage than tighter weaves. So, if you have a lightweight or loosely woven linen garment, it is worth taking extra care when drying it.

4.     The Drying Method

How you dry your linen plays a huge role in how much it shrinks. Drying it on high heat in the dryer can cause excessive shrinkage, whereas air-drying it or using a low heat setting can minimise this risk. Choosing the right drying method can make a significant difference in the longevity and fit of your linen items. 

How to Prevent Linen from Shrinking in the Dryer

While linen can shrink in the dryer, you do not have to give up on using it altogether. There are several effective ways to prevent or minimise shrinkage when drying linen, ensuring your clothes stay the right size and shape.

1.     Avoid High Heat Settings

The most straightforward way to prevent linen from shrinking in the dryer is to use the lowest heat setting possible or, better yet, opt for air-drying altogether. Air-drying is a gentler method that helps maintain the shape of linen garments while avoiding the risk of shrinkage. If you do use the dryer, choose a low-heat or delicate cycle.

2.     Air-Dry Your Linen

Linen loves the fresh air, and air-drying is often the safest option for preserving its size and shape. Simply lay your linen items flat on a drying rack, or hang them on a clothesline in a shaded area. Air-drying also helps reduce wrinkling, which can be an issue with linen, especially if it is not properly cared for.

3.     Remove Clothes Promptly

If you must use the dryer, make sure to remove your linen items as soon as the cycle finishes. Allowing linen to sit in the dryer for too long, even on a low setting, can cause it to become misshapen. By removing the items promptly, you can also shake them out gently to help smooth out wrinkles before air-drying them completely.

4.     Use a Lower Spin Speed

If you are washing linen garments in the machine before drying, consider using a lower spin speed during the wash cycle. This will help reduce the amount of moisture retained by the fabric, thus minimising the amount of heat required to dry it in the dryer. 

5.     Pre-Shrunk Linen

If you are particularly concerned about shrinkage, consider buying pre-shrunk linen items. Many high-quality linen garments undergo a pre-shrinking process, which means they have already been treated to prevent excessive shrinkage when washed. This could be a good option if you are looking for a more predictable fit.

6.     Gentle Fabric Softener or Linen Spray

Using a fabric softener that is suitable for delicate fabrics can help soften linen and reduce its tendency to shrink. Alternatively, you could use a linen spray when air-drying to help prevent stiffness or shrinkage.

What to Do if Your Linen Shrinks

If your linen items do shrink despite your best efforts, do not panic—there are ways to restore them to their former size and shape. While you cannot always reverse shrinkage entirely, here are a few methods that may help:

1.     Stretching While Damp

After washing, try gently stretching the damp linen back into shape. Lay it flat on a surface and, while still slightly wet, gently pull the fabric to its original dimensions. This method works best with linen that has not shrunk drastically.

2.     Steam Ironing

Using a steam iron can also help loosen the fibres of shrunk linen. While the fabric is still damp (or lightly spritzed with water), use the steam setting on your iron to carefully steam the fabric back into its original shape.

3.     Professional Help

If you are dealing with a high-value linen item that has shrunk significantly, you may want to take it to a professional cleaner. They may be able to offer more advanced restoration methods.

How to Keep Your Linen Clothes Shrink-Free

Linen can indeed shrink in the dryer, but with the right precautions, you can prevent this from happening. By understanding the factors that contribute to shrinkage—like heat, moisture, and the fabric construction—you can take simple steps to protect your linen items and keep them looking their best.

If you are determined to keep your linen garments in perfect condition, air-drying is your best bet. But if you need to use the dryer, just be sure to opt for the gentlest settings possible and remove your clothes promptly to avoid any potential shrinkage.

Care for Your Linen with Linenshed

At Linenshed, we specialize in crafting high-quality linen garments and home essentials designed to last. Whether you’re looking for breathable linen clothing, elegant bed linen, or timeless tableware, our pieces are made to elevate your lifestyle.

Visit Linenshed today to discover our range of linen products that combine beauty, comfort, and practicality. Let us help you enjoy the elegance of linen without the worry of shrinkage!