Do linen quilts and blankets shrink in the dryer?
Do linen quilts and blankets shrink in the dryer?
Yes—linen does shrink in the dryer, including linen quilts and blankets. But the story doesn’t end there. Understanding how natural fibers behave under heat and moisture is essential to preserving their integrity, especially in heirloom-quality quilts.
Why Linen Shrinks
Linen is a plant-based fiber derived from flax. Like most natural textiles, it’s prone to shrinkage when exposed to heat and agitation—particularly during its first wash and dry cycle.
- Untreated linen can shrink anywhere from 3–10%, depending on weave density, GSM, and finishing.
- Pre-washed linen, however, stabilizes significantly—typically shrinking only 1–2% in future washes.
This distinction matters. Once linen undergoes its initial contraction, it becomes far more predictable and durable.
The Importance of Pre-Washing
Pre-washing is a textile rite of passage. It releases tension from the weaving process and allows the fabric to settle into its true dimensions. Whether you're buying finished goods or sewing your own, pre-washed linen is the gold standard.
At Peplos Linen, we pre-wash all our linen before sewing to ensure our quilts maintain their shape and drape over time. This step is part of our commitment to textile integrity and customer care.
DIY Tip: Always Pre-Wash Before You Sew
If you’re making your own quilt, garment, or home textile, pre-wash your linen fabric before cutting or assembling. This minimizes distortion and ensures that your final product holds its intended dimensions after laundering.
Shrinkage Timeline: What to Expect
| Wash Cycle | Estimated Shrinkage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Wash | 3–10% (if untreated) | Bulk of shrinkage occurs here. |
| Second Wash | ~1–2% | Minor residual shrinkage. |
| Third Wash & Beyond | Negligible to none | Linen stabilizes and holds its shape. |
So, when we say, “future washes,” we’re referring to the second and possibly third laundering cycles. After that, properly pre-washed linen is considered dimensionally stable. It does not shrink 1–2% with every wash—just during those early cycles.
What About Cotton Batting?
Cotton, another natural fiber, behaves similarly—but with more dramatic shrinkage:
- Unwashed cotton batting can shrink 3–5%, sometimes more depending on loft and weave.
- Pre-washing cotton batting can reduce this to ~1–2%, though care must be taken to preserve its structure.
We’re currently researching best practices for pre-washing cotton batting to reduce post-assembly shrinkage in our quilt designs. It’s part of our ongoing effort to codify finishing standards and elevate textile truth across the industry.
Why Not Polyester?
Some manufacturers use polyester blends to avoid shrinkage altogether. But polyester is a synthetic fiber derived from petroleum, and its environmental impact is significant. It’s non-biodegradable, sheds microplastics, and contributes to textile waste.
At Peplos Linen, we choose natural fibers not just for their performance—but for their values.
Final Takeaway
A little shrinkage is natural. The key is preparation. Whether you’re buying or building, pre-washed linen offers the best balance of softness, stability, and sustainability. And as always, we’re here to answer your questions and share what we learn as we continue researching, refining, and redefining textile care.