How to Bleach Linen

Common household washables such as sheets, pillowcases, towels, washcloths, tablecloths and dish towels are each considered a linen. Typically made from cotton or a cotton blend, white or light-colored linens can usually be bleached, but read the care label to verify. Bleaching helps keep linens bright, white and germ-free. In general, wash sheets and pillowcases about once a week. Other linens may need laundering more often. Note that the fabric linen -- made from flax -- can usually be laundered in a manner similar to your cotton linens. However, reserve bleaching for stain removal rather than regular freshening since repeated use can weaken linen fabric.

Liquid bleach
Measuring cup
Laundry detergent

Instructions

- 1
  Fill the washer with hot water or the temperature indicated on the care labels of the items.
- 2
  Add 3/4 to 1 cup of liquid chlorine bleach for most top-loading washing machines. Front-loading washing machines require less bleach, about 1/2 cup. Read the bleach label for the correct amount for load size and type of washer. Pour the measured bleach into the dispenser labeled for bleach. In the absence of a bleach dispenser, add it directly to the washer full of water before you add the linens. Measure carefully.
- 3
  Add an adequate amount of detergent appropriate for the size of the load. Add it directly to the water. According to New Mexico State University, not using enough detergent can cause linens to turn gray over time.
- 4
  Add the linens to the wash water evenly around the agitator, if applicable. Submerge the linens in the water, close the lid and turn on the washer.
- 5
  Set your washer to add a second rinse, if possible. Or, after the linens have finished washing, reset it to the rinse cycle. It's imperative to get all the chlorine bleach out of your linens or it can weaken the fabric over time.

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Laundry