Q&A

By Marla Stefanelli

Can I wash linen pants in cold water?
Barbara C.,
e-mail

You can wash linen garments in cold water with mild soap. Set the machine for the delicate cycle or wash by hand. To avoid shrinkage, hang the garments to dry. Use a press cloth when ironing to avoid fabric shine.

Linen loses some of its crispness when washed. If the pants are part of a suit, it's best to launder the pants in the same manner as the jacket.

From the October 2006 issue of Sew News magazine.