Raw Linen or Washed Linen?
Linen has become an extremely popular material in textile creation thanks to its versatility, softness and distinctive feel. It is also regarded as a precious ally for the skin due to its hypoallergenic properties. Thanks to innovation and technical advances, new ways of processing textiles are emerging, and one particular type of linen is attracting attention: washed linen. But what exactly is washed linen? What are the differences between raw linen and washed linen? How is washed linen made? How should you care for washed linen? Embrin explains everything.
What is washed linen?
Washed linen is raw linen that has been treated after weaving, meaning it has undergone several stages of washing using ecological softeners. This process is known as “linen decatising” and involves washing the fabric intensively at high temperature. It is then tumble dried, and this operation is repeated several times.
Thanks to this process, the fibre becomes more supple and acquires a softer, lighter feel. It is therefore much better suited to sensitive skin for all household linen such as duvet covers or sheets, but also for linen clothing.
It is also worth noting that washed linen continues to soften with each wash and does not deteriorate. As such, it is a durable and ecological textile that will last and accompany you for many years.
What is the difference between raw linen and washed linen?
Washed linen can be considered an improved version of raw linen. It offers all the advantages of raw linen, with added softness and comfort. But it also retains other interesting qualities…
It does not need ironing
Washed linen does not require ironing, unlike raw linen, which must be ironed regularly. In any case, if you do wish to iron it, make sure not to iron it dry and always turn it inside out to avoid damaging the fibre.
The “crumpled” look of washed linen remains
Washed linen is also characterised by its crumpled appearance. It retains this quality wash after wash, unlike raw linen, which tends to stiffen over time.
Can you create washed linen from raw linen at home?
Raw linen does eventually soften and gradually takes on some of the qualities of washed linen after repeated washing. Ultimately, washed linen is simply linen that has been intensively washed again and again, so your own laundering will gradually give your raw linen textiles more or less the same characteristics as washed linen.
It is therefore entirely possible to achieve a textile similar to washed linen from raw linen at home, though it should be kept in mind that the best way to obtain washed linen with all the qualities you are looking for is to opt for washed linen itself. This is because it is processed using a specially adapted technique and special softeners that you do not have at home.
To help you make your choice, we have summarised everything for you:
| Characteristics | Washed linen | Raw linen |
|
Soft |
Yes | Yes |
| High temperature washing | Yes | No |
| Shrinks in the wash | No | Yes |
| Durable | Yes | Yes |
| Needs regular ironing | No | Yes |
| Persistent crumpled look | Yes | No |
Why choose Embrin’s washed linen?
Our linen is certified Oeko-Tex, meaning it is checked at every stage of textile creation.
As a reminder, the processing stages are:
-
retting (extraction of the fibre),
-
combing (untangling),
-
and spinning (transforming the fibre into yarn).
The fabric contains no harmful substances that could irritate your skin. To find out more, you can read our dedicated summary on the harvesting and creation of our linen.
Finally, our linen is cut by hand, piece by piece, by our artisans. This traditional cutting method allows us to offer linen with a straight grain that does not lose its shape.
Embrin offers a full range of washed linen bed linen. Perfect for sleep and for your skin, washed linen is a natural fabric and, as a bonus, long linen sheets do not need to be ironed.
How do you care for washed linen?
Washed linen is a textile that stands the test of time, but there are still a few basic rules to follow when it comes to caring for it. For example, it is worth knowing that if you mix linen with synthetics, you may end up with lint on your natural fibre linen.
Does washed linen shrink in the wash?
Washed linen has the advantage of not shrinking in the wash. Thanks to a specific treatment involving several intensive washes, this textile can be cleaned at high temperature without altering its size. This is a real benefit, especially as it is advisable to wash your linen sheets every week, or every two weeks if you shower before bed. In contrast, untreated raw linen is prone to shrinkage after washing.
Do stains come out of washed linen in the wash?
Raw linen, being a delicate and untreated fabric, is difficult to remove stains from. Washed linen, on the other hand, offers better resistance and can be cleaned at high temperature, making it easier to remove stains. For the most stubborn marks, it is recommended to gently rub the textile with a sponge, bicarbonate of soda and soapy water.
Are our products eco-friendly?
Our products are made in a way that respects the soil and biodiversity. There are no GMOs, no defoliants and no irrigation. The linen is processed mechanically and is free from any potentially harmful chemicals.
The absence of shipping by boat or plane in our logistics allows us to greatly reduce our ecological footprint, as we only make our products in France.
