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Does Linen Shrink? Yes! Here’s How To Avoid Or Do It On Purpose!

What if you’ve already made or bought something in linen but it’s a bit too big for you? Can you shrink it on purpose? Yes you can!

I’ll teach you how to shrink a linen shirt, pants, and more without damaging them.

Linen is hands down my favorite fabric to sew with and wear and I’ve spent a lot of time trying to understand it. I even looked up some studies to back up what I’ve experienced with linen myself!

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Does Linen Material Shrink?

Yes, linen shrinks. A natural fabric made from flax, it can shrink when you wash and dry it, especially if you use high heat.

TIP: Before I sew, I always pre-wash linen in cool water. If you want to skip that step buy it pre-shrunk.

Does 100% Linen Shrink?

Yes, 100% linen can shrink if you wash it in hot water or dry it on high heat.

Do Linen Blends Shrink?

Yes, linen blends can shrink. How much the fabric shrinks depends on what type of material the linen is blended with.

Generally, linen blends with natural materials like cotton are more prone to shrinking compared to those blended with synthetic materials like polyester. I’ll explain more about this as we go along the article, but for now, let’s take a look at some common types of linen blends.

Does Linen Cotton Blend Shrink?

Yes, linen cotton blend can shrink.

Both linen and cotton are from natural fibers and natural fibers are more sensitive to water and heat so be sure to go with low heat when washing and drying linen cotton blend.

Does Linen Rayon Blend Shrink?

Yes, linen rayon blend can shrink. “Rayon shrinks and loses … its strength… in water” (unfortunately, my favorite rayon jump-suit is proof in my case). The best way to clean a linen rayon blend is to dry-clean it.

Does Linen Viscose Blend Shrink?

Yes, linen viscose blend is prone to shrinking. Viscose is a type of rayon (the most common type of rayon), and as a rayon, it shrinks in water, so it’s also best to dry clean it.

Does Linen Polyester Blend Shrink?

Yes, linen polyester blend is prone to shrinking. That being said, polyester is relatively resistant to shrinking so how much your linen polyester blend shrinks depends on the ratios. If polyester makes up most of the fabric, it can still shrink but it won’t be as dramatic as a blend that’s made up of mostly linen.

Do Linen Clothes Shrink?

Yes, linen clothes can shrink but not always!

How do you know if they’ll shrink as soon as you take them out of the washing machine?

Let’s take a look at these basic clothing items:

Do Linen Shirts Shrink

Yes, linen shirts can shrink. How the shirt is made and how you wash and dry it will affect how much it shrinks.

If it says “pre-shrunk”, you can expect that it won’t shrink as much when you wash it. Even then, never wash your linen shirt in hot water or dry it in the dryer on a high setting.

Check the care label and follow the directions for washing and drying it.

The care label will also tell you if it’s 100% linen or if it’s blended with other fibers

Sometimes, the label will even indicate to allow for a certain percentage of shrinkage for blends that are especially prone to shrinking. You might want to size up in this case.

Linen shirts are durable so if you care for them well, you’ll get to enjoy your shirts for a long time. What I love about them (I have 3 that I wear way too often haha) is that they get softer as time goes on. So comfy! 😀

Do Linen Pants Shrink

Yes, linen pants can shrink. Just like with linen shirts, check the care label of your pants as that will give you the most accurate information on how to care for your specific pair.

It’s best to go with pre-shrunk linen pants since the length and the fit on your waist, thighs, and knees won’t change much when you wash them. It’s quite annoying to find the perfect pair of linen pants only to accidentally turn them into capris. 🙁

That being said, I like that linen shrinks slightly when you wash it. I have a pair of tight-weave linen trousers that shrink a tiny little bit every time I wash them. They’ll start to stretch out after some wear, and when I want them to fit me better again (especially the waist and knee area when it gets a little too baggy), I wash them.

Why Does Linen Shrink?

Linen shrinks because of “relaxation shrinkage“. Many types of fabrics can shrink because of this!

Flax fibers (which is what linen is made from) can stretch as the linen is being made. This stretching can happen during the spinning, weaving, dying and/or finishing stages. 

Then when you wash the final product (the linen fabric or garment) and it comes in contact with either heat or moisture or both, those fibers relax back into their original length, hence the contraction or shrinkage of the linen shirt, pants or home decor item. 

The most shrinkage will happen during the first wash but it can continue to happen every wash, especially if you use high heat to wash or dry your linen products.

How Much Does Linen Shrink?

Linen can shrink anywhere between 3 – 7% according to a study out of Washburn Municipal University. In general, 100% linen and linen blended with natural materials tend to shrink more compared to linen blended with manmade materials.

If you’re using pre-shrunk linen, you’ll notice the shrinkage will be pretty minimal when you wash it (assuming you’re avoiding high heat, of course!).

Does Linen Shrink In The Wash?

Yes, linen can shrink in the wash, especially the first time you wash it. This is because of the relaxation shrinkage we were talking about earlier.

Pre-shrunk linen shrinks less, but there could still be some shrinkage.

Whether your linen shrinks also depends on how hot the water is that you’re washing it with. Linen will shrink if you’re using hot water. You’re less likely to shrink linen if you’re using cool or lukewarm water.

Can you machine wash linen?

Yes, you can machine wash linen.

I usually machine wash linen but you can also handwash it (I do this sometimes if I have a special or vintage piece of linen).

Always check the care label though and follow the directions.

My linen clothes all say different things on the care labels. My favorite pants say to wash in cool water on a gentle cycle. (these are the ones I accidentally washed and tumble-dried on high heat :()

One of my linen shirts says to wash at 30°C degrees.

My linen dress says I can wash it at 40°C. This dress is a heavy-weight linen so this could be why it can withstand more heat.

Having said all that, I use cool or cold water and a gentle cycle and I suggest you do the same.

Does Linen Shrink With Every Wash?

Yes, linen can shrink every time you wash it, but it will shrink less with every wash (as long as you’re following the proper care instructions and/or using cool/lukewarm water).

In some cases, this is beneficial, because linen can bag out at the elbows, knees and waist – or wherever there is pressure on the linen garment and washing linen clothes helps them go back to their original shape.

Can linen shrink drastically beyond that first wash? If you wash it in hot water and dry it at a high temperature each time, then yes, you’ll see a shrinkage every time.

Does Linen Shrink In Hot Water?

Yes, linen shrinks if you wash it in hot water. Usually around 3-4% but sometimes it can shrink up to 10%.

Lukewarm water is okay though. Just follow the care instructions and/or stick to 30°C or less when you’re washing linen – this is what all of the linen garments I’ve purchased suggest. 

For really stubborn stains, 40°C is recommended by which.co.uk. But only do this if you have no other way to get the stain out.

Does Linen Shrink In Cold Water?

No, linen doesn’t shrink if you wash it in cold water. It’s generally recommended to wash linen at a low temperature to avoid shrinking.

Just make sure it’s not ice-cold water. You’ll want to avoid extreme temperatures as extra cold water can cause linen to shrink too.

Does Linen Shrink In The Dryer?

Yes, linen can shrink in the dryer if you’re using anything beyond a low-heat setting.

If you ask me, “Can linen go in the dryer?” Yes if you’re careful, BUT I always air-dry.

Recently when I was traveling, I accidentally dried my linen trousers in a dryer at a laundromat. Not only did my trousers end up tighter but they looked worn and faded too :(. Lesson learned!  (See the image below for the before and after.)

They did loosen up with wear but they’ve stayed looking worn and a bit faded (boo).

Even if the care label says it’s okay to tumble dry, be extra careful. I’d stick to tumble drying on a low setting (50ºC or less) and only do this if you have to.

Does Linen Shrink When Air-Dried?

No, linen doesn’t shrink when air-dried. It’s the safest way to dry linen! Plus, it’s gentler on the fabric (and the environment!) compared to tumble drying, which helps your linen clothes to last longer.

Does Linen Shrink When Dry-Cleaned?

Yes, linen can shrink even if you dry-clean it. This is especially the case if it’s not pre-shrunk linen and you’re sending it to the cleaners for its very first clean.

On the bright side, as long as you’re going with a reliable dry cleaner, the shrinkage likely won’t be too noticeable.

How To Wash Linen To Prevent Shrinkage

Washing Instructions For Linen:

Here’s a step-by-step laundry guide on how to safely wash your linen without too much shrinkage:

Step 1: Check The Label

Always check the care label before going through the whole laundry routine. You’ll want to know the fabric composition and the best way to wash and dry the fabric.

I’ll let textile expert and Steamery CEO Frej Lewenhaupt, speaking to marthastewart.com tell us: “It’s always important to check the care label before washing a garment, as some materials are more susceptible to shrinkage and losing their shape and luster if not washed properly.”

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains

If you notice any stains on your linen, treat them as soon as you can. You might be tempted to skip the pre-treatment and hope for the best but chances are, that stain will still be there at the end of the cycle.

Cleaning expert Melissa Maker shares her go-to stain removal tip: “First, as with any stain, blot. Apply any soap (yes, hand soap, dish soap, laundry detergent — seriously) to the stain, rinse and allow to dry.”

Heads up: If your linen care label says “dry clean only”, skip the stain treatment and get your clothes to the dry cleaners ASAP.

Step 3: Wash In Cool Or Lukewarm Water

To reduce linen shrinkage, machine or handwash it in cool or lukewarm water (30°C or less) and choose a gentle cycle.

Lewenhaupt adds another reason to use cool temperatures: “It’s kinder on your clothes” as cool water reduces the wear and tear of your linen clothes, keeping them looking great for longer.

Step 4: Air Dry Or Tumble Dry On Low

The best way to dry linen is to air dry it. To avoid creasing and wrinkles (as much as is possible with linen), use a hanger or lay the linen flat to dry.

If your care label says tumble drying is okay, choose a low setting (50ºC or less). I still wouldn’t do this myself but I understand sometimes you may not have a choice.

Step 5: Store In A Dry Place

When it’s almost dry, you can start ironing your linen clothing. Then, hang it in a cool, dry wardrobe. Hanging linen up helps to reduce wrinkles and creases.

If you don’t mind the more relaxed, rumpled look, you can also fold your linen clothes before storing them.

Best Way To Iron Linen (To Avoid Linen Shrinkage)

The best way to iron linen is with a high heat setting.

It’s easier to iron linen when it’s damp. So either take it off the washing-line damp, or dampen it using a spray bottle filled with water or the water sprayer on your iron if it comes with one.

This will also help you stretch the linen out a bit if you need to.

It can be tough to get wrinkles out of linen but I find that using a steam iron makes it that much easier.

Linen Fabric Care Tips

For long-lasting linen, remember to practice these basic care tips:

• Always separate your white and colored linen clothes before washing.
• Fasten all buttons and zippers before putting everything in the washing machine. This reduces the chances of the clothes catching onto other clothes and getting ripped/warped.
• If you must use a tumble dryer, take the clothes out of the dryer slightly damp. Give them a shake, and lay them flat as they continue to completely dry. This helps to reduce wrinkles in the linen fabric.
• Don’t use bleach (it will weaken the fabric and turn white linen yellow) – use oxi clean instead

How To Shrink Linen

Since linen is prone to shrinking, this makes it easier for you to shrink linen on purpose if you need to! Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Wash With Warm To Hot Water

If you’re handwashing, soak linen in a tub of warm water. Don’t use water that’s too hot – yes, it’ll help the fabric to shrink but the high temperature can age the fabric.

If you’re machine-washing, choose a medium setting on a gentle cycle. Aim for temperatures between 40°C and 60°C.

Step 2: Dry On Medium-High Heat

For the most shrinkage make sure you machine dry the linen, choose a medium-high setting (between 50°C to 55°C).

WARNING: Just remember that this method could cause your linen to look more worn and faded (especially if it’s dyed) – I learned this the hard way as mentioned above. (see the difference in the images below).

Step 3: Repeat As Needed

Check your clothes to see if you’re happy with the shrinkage. If it needs to shrink a little more, repeat Steps 1 and 2 until you get the size you’re looking for.

Keep in mind, that the linen fabric will probably stretch back out as it’s worn and used.  To reshrink it, just follow the steps above again.

How To Unshrink Linen (Or Stretch Linen Clothing)

If you’ve accidentally shrunk your linen clothing, here’s a little tip you can try to stretch it back closer to its original shape:

Step 1: Wash Linen According To Care Label

Start by washing your linen clothing in a cool water wash.

Step 2: Air Dry To Remove Excess Moisture

Hang it up to dry until it goes from being dripping wet to just damp.

Step 3: Iron Outwards To Stretch It Out

Lay the linen clothing flat on your ironing board. Use a low-heat setting, iron from the center outwards. Apply some pressure and/or stretch the clothes out gently as you’re ironing. This should stretch out the clothing again.

Also remember that just wearing or using the linen will help it stretch out again.

Does Linen Shrink FAQs

Does Linen Shrink More Than Cotton?

Linen and cotton have similar shrinking tendencies. They’re both natural materials and tend to be more prone to shrinking compared to synthetic materials.

Does Linen Shrink Or Stretch?

Yes, linen can shrink and stretch.  Linen shrinks if it’s not cared for properly (too much heat). Linen can also stretch – this usually depends on the weave – a loose weave linen will stretch more easily than a close-weave linen.

Does Linen Shrink In Length Or Width?

Yes, Linen can shrink in both length and widthways when exposed to high heat and moisture. This is exactly what happened to my linen trousers at the laundromat :(.

Is It Easy To Shrink Linen?

Yes, it’s easy to shrink linen. The natural fibers in linen tend to shrink back to their original size when they come in contact with water or heat. Wash your linen with warm water and carefully dry it in a clothes dryer (be warned using a clothes dryer may make your linen look more worn).

Should You Size Up In Linen?

You should size up in linen if you prefer a loose fit, so even if some shrinking happens, the garment will still fit you well. Having said that, remember that linen can stretch out – especially at the knees and elbows so don’t go too oversized.

Does Linen Shrink When Dried?

Yes, linen can shrink when dried if you use a clothes dryer.  If you don’t want your linen fabric or clothing to shrink, air dry it only. Linen won’t shrink if you airdry it.

How To Make Linen Soft

Wondering how to soften linen fabric? If your linen fabric is stiff, you have a couple of options – give it time as with regular washing and wearing, it will soften.  You can also soften the linen fabric or garment more quickly by adding about half a cup of baking soda into your wash cycle.

Does Linen Shrink?: Summary

Yes, linen shrinks if you’re washing or drying it with too much heat so be careful!

When in doubt, just remember these linen fabric care tips: Use cool water and heat only, avoid using a clothes dryer if possible and air dry only.  When you iron, you can use high heat (your iron will probably tell you this!) This high heat will help you get rid of wrinkles for a little while ;).

Linen can be stiff to start with, but with time it will get softer and softer (one of my favorite things about it). 

If you want to speed up the softening process you can use baking soda in your wash to do this.  If you want to avoid stiff linen, don’t buy stiff linen!  There are so many types of linen to choose from, so just choose one that’s already buttery soft.

Now I’d love to hear from you: Do you have tips to share on caring for linen? Let me know in the comments below!

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