French linen is one of the world's most beautiful and durable natural fabrics. A well-cared-for linen tablecloth or set of serviettes can last decades β even becoming softer and more lustrous with every wash.
Whether you've just purchased your first French linen tablecloth or you're a seasoned linen lover, this guide covers everything you need to keep your pieces looking beautiful for years to come.
WHY FRENCH LINEN IS WORTH THE CARE
β’ Incredibly durable: Linen is up to 30% stronger than cotton and gets stronger when wet.
β’ Naturally antibacterial: Linen fibres resist bacteria and fungi.
β’ Temperature-regulating: Perfect for the Australian climate β cool in summer, warm in winter.
β’ Softens with age: Becomes softer and more beautiful the more you use and wash it.
β’ Eco-friendly: Flax requires far less water and pesticides than cotton.
WASHING FRENCH LINEN
Machine Washing:
β’ Gentle or delicate cycle, cold or warm water (up to 40Β°C)
β’ Mild, pH-neutral detergent β no bleach or optical brighteners
β’ Wash separately from heavy items like towels or denim
β’ Don't overload the machine
β’ Savon de Marseille dissolved in water makes an excellent natural stain pre-treatment
What to Avoid:
β’ Hot water β causes shrinkage
β’ Bleach β damages and yellows linen over time
β’ Fabric softener β reduces linen's natural breathability
β’ Spin cycles above 800rpm β causes excessive creasing
DRYING FRENCH LINEN
β’ Line dry in shade or indirect sunlight β direct Australian sun can fade colours
β’ Dry flat for tablecloths where possible to maintain shape
β’ Tumble dry on low heat, remove while still slightly damp
β’ Never leave linen bunched up wet β can cause mildew and permanent creasing
IRONING FRENCH LINEN
Many linen lovers embrace the natural, relaxed look of unironed linen β it's part of its charm. But if you prefer a crisp finish:
β’ Iron while still slightly damp, or use a steam iron
β’ Medium-high heat (the linen setting on your iron)
β’ Iron on the reverse side to preserve colour and sheen
Pro tip: A light mist of water and a warm iron will smooth even the most stubborn linen creases.
REMOVING STAINS FROM FRENCH LINEN
β’ Wine or food: Blot (don't rub) immediately, then treat with a paste of Savon de Marseille and cold water before washing.
β’ Oil or grease: Sprinkle with bicarbonate of soda, leave for 30 minutes, brush off, then treat with Savon de Marseille.
β’ General stains: Soak in cold water with a small amount of white vinegar before washing.
STORING FRENCH LINEN
β’ Always store clean and completely dry β never store damp linen
β’ Fold loosely in a cool, dry, well-ventilated space
β’ Avoid plastic bags or airtight containers β linen needs to breathe
β’ A linen or cotton storage bag is ideal
β’ Refold occasionally during long-term storage to prevent permanent crease lines
THE MORE YOU USE IT, THE BETTER IT GETS
Here's the wonderful secret about French linen: the more you use it, the more beautiful it becomes. Each wash softens the fibres a little more, and over time your linen develops a gorgeous, lived-in patina that no new fabric can replicate. So don't save your linen for special occasions β use it every day.
SHOP FRENCH LINEN FOR EVERY OCCASION
From everyday French linen serviettes to elegant tablecloths, practical aprons, and stylish tote bags β explore our full range of French linen homewares, sourced directly from France and delivered across Australia.