How to care for a linen suit

Linen suits are a summer essential, and it’s easy to see why. Light, breathable, and moisture-wicking, linen helps regulate body temperature, keeping you cool and comfortable even on the hottest days. But don’t be fooled by its laid-back feel: linen is surprisingly tough. Made from strong flax fibres, it holds up well to regular wear, washing, and even ironing.

It doesn’t hurt that it looks great, either. With its relaxed drape and timeless appeal, it’s no wonder tailors have been crafting suits from linen for centuries.

Still, for all its charm, linen can be a little intimidating to care for. So, what’s the best way to keep your linen suit looking sharp? Let’s clear up a few common questions.

Is it better to wash or dry clean linen?

Dry cleaning a linen suit tends to be the better option than washing it at home. The gentler process of using a solvent rather than lots of water helps the weave to maintain its structure and protects the fabric from warping.

When it comes to linen shirts, however, there’s no reason why you can’t use a standard washing machine. Just make sure you set the temperature to the one specified on the label - often 30 or 40 degrees to retain its structure - and use a gentle detergent.

Can linen go in the dryer?

Linen suits can be susceptible to shrinking in high heat, so avoid putting it in the dryer. Instead, hang them on the washing line or an airer to let nature do its job. As a naturally moisture-wicking fabric, it shouldn’t take too long to dry.

As long as your linen suit hasn’t been through an intensive drying process, it shouldn’t shrink much at all – especially if you’ve taken it to a dry cleaner with a good track record. You might find that it feels a bit tighter when you first put it on, but should loosen up with more wear.

How to get rid of wrinkles on your linen suit

The only downside to linen is its tendency to wrinkle - help it to stay looking sharp by giving it a good iron. Don’t be afraid to turn the heat up and go over it a few times to make sure all the creases are out. Once it’s ironed, keep it hung in a dry place so it’s ready for when you come to wear it.

A few creases give a linen suit the relaxed look associated with much-admired Italian style, but it’s not for everyone. If you prefer a smoother finish, you can go for one made from a blended fabric. Combining linen with cotton or wool should help it sidestep some of the wrinkles.

Can you get stains out of linen?

Linen is pretty absorbent so it does stain easily, but most marks can be removed if you get to them in time. If you do get a stain, dab it straight away with a damp cloth to prevent it from setting deep into the fabric. After the event, make it your priority to take your suit to the dry cleaners to finish off the job.