Linen is a material that until a few years ago had been in the background, and now it is back to stay. To a large extent, this is due to the fact that the advance of the climatic condition is making society aware of the use of less artificial and less harmful materials for the planet.
In addition, linen presents a moderate and adaptable aesthetic to any environment that seeks to be associated with nature and calm.
The origin of flax
From the richest communities of antiquity, linen has been a key element in their textiles, from ritual garments to exquisite fabrics for dressing spaces that have gone down in history.
Before becoming the key to Mediterranean trade for the Babylonians and Romans, the Egyptians were already making good use of it.
Its early origin is due to the fact that it is a natural fabric composed of vegetable fiber, specifically that found in the stalk of flaxseed, an edible plant.
Flax for the environment
As a pest-resistant plant, flax crops are environmentally friendly because they do not require the use of pesticides or chemical agents.
It also needs less water than other textile plantations, such as cotton, so it has less impact on the environment.
Although the versatility of this fabric allows it to be combined with other vegetable fibers, it is recommended that, as far as possible, products that respect its purity be used in order to better maintain all its properties.
An indispensable material
On an aesthetic level, linen shows a great variety of options, it is easy to dye, embroider, and even in its simplest form it is pleasing to the eye.
Likewise, its qualities are not limited to its beauty.
It is a deeply resistant and durable material, which has no difficulty in maintaining its shape.
It is a lightweight fabric, perfect for summer garments or light textiles to dress a room without overloading it. Soft linen curtains are ideal for reducing sunlight, as it is a material that protects against ultraviolet rays.
Linen sheets are a great favorite among stylists, not only because they are the classic white sheets, but also because their composition is antibacterial and hypoallergenic, promising a clean and convenient use in contact with the skin.
In addition, it is also fungicidal and odor absorbing. The use of linen bags has become popular with the boom of changing bags for this accessory for more casual occasions.
As a thermoregulable material, it is perfect for decorating a room at any time of the year, adding more pieces in the colder months, and complementing spaces in summer with light accessories.
Care and maintenance
Linen has the ability to dry quickly, so it is recommended that after washing, it should be stretched out in the sun without clothespins.
For washing, the first step is always to read the label, regardless of the fabric.
Normally, linen should be washed both by hand and machine, but not at a temperature of more than 40Cº, taking into account that after the first cleaning process, it will shrink a little.
Ironing can be done directly, but it is advisable to moisturize the piece first, or to use a handkerchief as a filter for the heat of the iron.
Keeping a piece of linen in perfect condition is not a complex task due to its durability, but to ensure its best condition, it is good to keep it hanging, or if it must be in a bag, it should be made of cotton instead of plastic.
