How to Wash and Care for Linen Tablecloths
Yes, they’re made to last. But they’re also made to be used — spaghetti splashes and all.
Linen is one of the oldest, strongest natural fibres on earth — which means your tablecloth doesn’t need to be treated like a delicate flower. In fact, at Nic Brittin, we believe in linens that get better with age. The more you use and wash them, the softer and more beautiful they become.
Here’s how to keep your heirloom linens looking their best for years (and dinners) to come.
1. Don’t Panic About Spills
Wine, tomato sauce, birthday cake, candle wax — life happens. And that’s a good thing.
Act quickly: Blot (don’t rub!) any excess with a clean cloth.
Rinse in cold water: Especially for red wine or colourful sauces.
Avoid heat at first: Hot water can set stains, so hold off until you’ve tried a pre-wash soak.
🍷 Pro tip: Salt, soda water or white vinegar are great natural helpers for fresh spills.
2. Machine Wash, Guilt-Free
Our table linens are made for real life — so yes, they’re machine washable.
Use cool to warm water: 30–40°C is perfect.
Mild detergent: Choose something gentle and eco-friendly.
Avoid bleach: It weakens the fibres and alters colours.
Wash similar colours together: As you would with your favourite clothes.
🧺 Don’t overload the machine — give your linens space to breathe.
3. Drying: Air Beats Tumble
Linen loves fresh air — and it dries quickly, too.
Line dry or lay flat: Hang in a breezy place out of direct sunlight to preserve colour.
Avoid the tumble dryer: It can cause shrinkage and unnecessary wear.
If you must tumble: Choose a low heat and remove while still slightly damp to avoid deep creasing.
☀️ Bonus: there’s something charming about seeing a tablecloth blowing in the wind, isn’t there?
4. To Iron or Not to Iron
Wrinkles are part of linen’s character — but a little smoothing can elevate the look.
For formal occasions: Iron while slightly damp on medium heat.
For a relaxed look: Skip the iron and embrace the natural texture.
Use steam or a spritz: It’ll smooth things out quickly.
🪞 A crease or two says, “I’m elegant, but I don’t take myself too seriously.”
5. Storage: Keep It Breezy
Fold clean and dry: Never store damp.
Avoid plastic: Linen needs to breathe — opt for cotton bags or simply stack on an open shelf.
Tuck in lavender or cedar: A subtle scent keeps things fresh and discourages moths.
🧺 And yes — if it’s a family heirloom, feel free to monogram and store with pride.
6. A Note on Stains That Won’t Budge
Some marks tell stories — a wine stain from a birthday toast, candle wax from a late-night feast. But if you’re determined:
Soak in warm water with oxygen-based bleach overnight
Wash as normal and line dry in the sun (a natural brightener)
Repeat as needed — some things take time
☁️ If all else fails, fold creatively. A bowl of olives goes a long way.
These Linens Were Made to Live
Your Nic Brittin linens were made to gather around. To be filled with crumbs, laughter, and memories. Caring for them doesn’t mean fussing over them — it means using them well, cleaning them gently, and letting them grow softer with time.
Because a tablecloth is not just a piece of fabric. It’s the backdrop to your family’s stories.