Why Linen Gets Softer With Every Wash

Crisp at first, soft over time

New linen often feels crisp or even a little stiff. That is normal. With each wash and wear, the flax fibres relax and the fabric becomes progressively softer and more supple.

Why it happens

Flax fibres are naturally stiff. Washing and movement gradually break down that stiffness without significantly weakening the fibre, so linen softens while staying durable.

Helping it along

Washing in cool water and air or low-heat drying speeds up the softening while protecting the fabric. Avoid heavy fabric softeners, which are unnecessary; linen softens on its own.

The payoff

A linen piece you have owned for a year often feels far nicer than the day you bought it. That improvement with age is one of linen's quiet pleasures.

OMIT's Daily Linen Short is 100% linen, made to soften with wear. See the linen short.