You can put linen in the dryer — but whether you should depends on the temperature setting, the quality of the linen, and how much you value the garment's long-term quality. The honest answer is: low heat is acceptable; high heat is damaging; hang drying is always better.

What happens in the dryer at high heat. The flax fibre contracts when exposed to sustained heat above 40 degrees in the mechanical environment of a tumble dryer. The result is shrinkage — typically more significant than the first-wash shrinkage that occurs in a cool machine wash — and over repeated high-heat drying cycles, progressive weakening of the flax fibre structure. The fabric becomes thinner, less supple, and begins to lose the progressive improvement property that makes certified Belgian linen distinctive.

What happens in the dryer at low heat. On the lowest heat setting — typically labelled "delicate" or "air dry" on most machines — the risk of significant shrinkage is reduced. The mechanical tumbling action still applies, which causes more creasing than hang drying, but the thermal damage is minimal. If you must use a dryer, remove the linen garment while still slightly damp — this prevents over-drying, which causes stiffness.

The best alternative. Hang drying is always the better option for certified Belgian linen. The garment retains its shape, softens more evenly as it dries, and develops the progressive improvement in drape that makes quality linen better over time. Hang the shirt on a hanger by the collar, shake it gently to remove the worst of the creases, and allow it to dry at room temperature away from direct sunlight.

The direct sunlight note. Avoid drying white or light-coloured linen in direct strong sunlight for extended periods — UV exposure can cause slight yellowing over time. Shade or indirect light is preferable.

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