Yes, linen can go in the dryer — but the heat setting matters, and the difference between low heat and high heat is significant.

On low heat, the dryer is generally safe for linen. The mechanical action of tumble drying can even be beneficial in the early washes, helping the fabric soften and relax. Remove the garment while still slightly damp — over-drying in the tumble dryer, even on low heat, can cause the fabric to stiffen rather than staying soft and pliable.

On high heat, linen should not go in the dryer. High heat causes the flax fibre to contract, and repeated high-heat drying can accelerate wear over time, reducing the lifespan of the garment and causing it to stiffen rather than soften with age. This is the most common cause of premature wear in linen that is otherwise well cared for.

The practical guide:

For the first few washes: low-heat tumble drying is useful. It softens the fabric faster than hang drying and helps the weave settle.

For regular care: hang drying is preferable. Removing the garment from the wash and hanging immediately on a wide-shouldered hanger allows it to dry in its natural drape, which reduces wrinkling and preserves the structure of the weave over time.

For travel or when hang drying is not practical: low-heat tumble dry, remove slightly damp, hang to finish.

One additional note: check the care label if in doubt. PP garments carry care instructions specific to the fabric weight and construction of each piece. When the label and general guidance conflict, follow the label.

Belgian linen treated with low-heat or no-heat drying consistently over its life will remain in better condition than the same garment subjected to regular high-heat cycles. The difference is visible over a year or two of regular wear.

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