All cotton will shrink to some extent, but quality sheet manufacturers anticipate this by cutting their items larger to allow for shrinkage.
When buying fitted sheets, look for extra-deep 15 to 17 inch pockets, which allows for the deep, pillow-top mattresses that are popular in the United States, and also ensures that the elastic will not be overstretched, leading to stress on the seams and fabric.
When it’s time to wash your sheets do so in warm water, dry them on a low setting, and remove them from the dryer promptly while they are still slightly damp, then hang or fold to smooth.
Dear Linen Doctor, “I want to invest in some new sheets, but wonder how long can I expect them to last?
I think you’ll find that an investment in fine linens will pay dividends night after night after night!
With proper care, your fine bed linens can last for many years. In order to assure the long life of your bed linens, it is best to alternate the use of each set on a weekly basis. Three sets of sheets for each bed is a good guideline to follow - one on the bed, one in the wash, one in the closet.
In between each use, launder and store your linens in a well-ventilated space. For best results when laundering, use a non-chlorine bleach and gentle liquid detergent. Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water. Line dry or tumble dry until slightly damp. Over-drying or drying on too hot a setting is the single biggest factor in reducing the life of your sheets.
“Dear Linen Doctor, we received two sets of beautiful fine linen sheets as a wedding gift. How should I store them to keep them like new?”
Always clean your linens before storing them. Store items in a cool, dry, and preferably dark place after wrapping them in muslin or an old cotton pillow case. For wool items, consider using a cedar chest or moth balls. However, cottons and linens should not be stored in cedar, which will yellow them.
I recommend Linen Wash to our customers to safely remove difficult stains from any of your fine linens.
