Proper care of linen fabric prolongs longevity!
Caring for linen involves avoiding harsh chemicals, gentle washing, and air-drying to maintain its durability and natural texture. Does linen shrink in the dryer? and How to avoid linen fabric shrinking as much as possible? 
Why linen fabric shrinking?
Linen fabric shrinks primarily because of the natural cellulose fibres compressing and tightening during the initial washes. Factors like heat, agitation, and improper care exacerbate this inherent characteristic.
Linen Heat sensitivity:
Linen is heat-sensitive as high temperatures can cause the fibres to tighten, leading to shrinkage. To dry linen, opt for low to medium heat settings or, preferably, air-dry to preserve its quality and prevent damage.
Agitation in the dryer:
Excessive agitation in the dryer can contribute to linen fabric shrinking. To minimize this risk, use a gentle or low-agitation setting when drying linen items.
When tumble drying linen fabric, use a low or medium heat setting to prevent excessive shrinkage. Remove the linen promptly to minimize wrinkles and preserve its natural texture.
Removing linen from the dryer while slightly damp helps prevent excessive wrinkles and allows for easier ironing or air drying to maintain its texture.
How much the linen fabric shrink?
The amount of shrinkage for linen fabric can vary, but it’s generally around 2-5% after the first wash.
Several factors can influence how much linen fabric shrinks, including:
1. Weave Density: Linen with a tighter weave may experience less shrinkage compared to a looser weave.
2. Pre-treatment: Pre-washed or pre-shrunk linen is less likely to shrink significantly after subsequent washes.
3. Quality of Linen: Higher quality linen fibres may undergo less shrinkage than lower quality fibres.
4. Washing Conditions: The temperature, detergent used, and agitation during washing can impact shrinkage.
5. Drying Method: Air-drying or using lower heat settings in the dryer can help minimize shrinkage compared to high heat settings.
6. Fabric Blends: Linen blends with other fibres may exhibit different shrinkage properties.
It’s essential to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer and conduct a small test before washing a larger piece of linen fabric.