Does linen shrink in the wash? – Tips for caring for linen clothes
Linen is one of the most prized natural fibers – a breathable, durable and stylishly vibrant material that only gets better with use. But many people wonder: does linen shrink in the wash? The short answer is: usually yes, but not always. The difference comes from how the linen is treated before it ends up in your wardrobe.
Natural shrinkage of linen
As a natural fiber, linen behaves differently than synthetic materials. When washed and dried, linen fibers shrink slightly – especially during the first few washes. This means that a regular linen garment can shrink by about 5–10% , which can be seen, for example, in the sleeves or hem becoming shorter or the fit becoming tighter.
Many linen products require extra space in the manufacturing process to accommodate this potential shrinkage – but this is not always made clear to the buyer. So it is completely understandable that this topic is a cause for concern.
Original Story linen is pre-washed – it won't shrink in use.
The linen used in the Original Story collection has been pre-washed during the manufacturing process . This means that the shrinkage has been removed before the product reaches you. The garment no longer lives in the wash in the same way as untreated linen – it retains its size and shape, and you don't have to be prepared for surprises.
This pre-treatment does not negatively affect the properties of the linen – on the contrary. The fabric feels softer from the very first use.
With proper care, linen will last for years
Although Original Story linen does not shrink, it is still worth following the care instructions. Linen should be washed at 30–40 degrees and avoid unnecessary spinning or tumble drying. We also recommend avoiding a full drum so that the garment can move and dry airily. This way, linen retains its properties from wash to wash.
Ironing or steaming will restore the beautiful look of linen, but its slight creasing is also part of the material's natural charm. It is often enough to let the garment dry neatly on a hanger.
Discover our linen products
Original Story linen products are designed to last through use and time – without the worry of shrinkage. All of our linen products are pre-washed, so you can wear them right away without worry.
Favorites from the collection:
Short-sleeved linen blend cardigan, Cream
Wide-hemmed linen skirt, Dark chocolate
- Wide-sleeved linen shirt, Dark navy
Linen does not shrink when it is prepared correctly
If you've ever been hesitant about buying linen because of shrinkage, Original Story is the place to be. Pre-washed linen maintains its size and quality even after everyday washing. It's a natural, luxurious and practical material - just the kind that belongs in everyone's wardrobe.
