What are the best practices for caring for linen furniture?
Tips to maintain the elegance and durability of linen upholstery.
Linen furniture brings an effortlessly elegant, airy feel to any space — but because linen is a natural fiber, it requires a bit of extra care to keep it looking fresh. Here are the best practices for caring for linen upholstery:
🧼 1. Vacuum Regularly (Gently)
-
Use a soft-bristle or upholstery attachment.
-
Vacuum weekly to remove dust and dirt that can wear down fibers or cause discoloration.
-
Always go with the weave direction to avoid roughing the fabric.
💧 2. Blot Spills Immediately
-
Use a dry, clean cloth to blot — never rub, as linen is absorbent and prone to watermarks.
-
For stains, use a mild soap + water solution or a linen-safe fabric cleaner.
-
Dab gently and dry quickly with a fan or hair dryer on a cool setting.
☀️ 3. Protect from Sunlight
-
Linen can fade or weaken with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
-
Position furniture away from bright windows or use curtains to diffuse light.
🚫 4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
-
No bleach, ammonia, or aggressive stain removers.
-
Stick to pH-neutral, fabric-safe cleaners and always spot test before using.
🔁 5. Rotate Cushions
-
Flip and rotate cushions weekly to maintain even wear and prevent sagging or fading in high-use areas.
🧺 6. Dry Cleaning for Deep Cleaning
-
Most linen slipcovers or upholstery should be professionally cleaned — check the care label.
-
Machine washing may shrink or distort untreated linen.
🐾 Bonus Tip: Use Throws or Covers
-
Linen can snag on pet claws or rough items — throws or slipcovers can help protect high-traffic areas while still showing off your style.