Oat Latte Arlem Bedhead Cushion with a Stonewashed European Linen cover on a styled bed

How to wash linen cushion covers

Yes, you can machine wash them (without ruining them). Here is how to do it properly so they last for years.

See the steps

Five steps, about 15 minutes

The short version
Wash

Gentle cycle, cold water

Detergent

Mild liquid (not powder)

Dry

Line dry in shade, or tumble dry low

Iron

While damp, medium-high heat (optional)

01 · Before it goes in

Check the zipper

Remove the insert and close the zipper before washing. An open zipper can snag the fabric or damage other items in the wash.

Zip-off Oat Stripe linen cover on an Arlem Bedhead Cushion
Close-up of soft European linen on an Arlem Bedhead Cushion
02 · The machine

Choose the right settings

Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water. Our linen cushion covers are made from 100% Stonewashed European Linen, pre-washed for softness. Cold water prevents any further shrinkage and protects the fibres.

03 · The wash

Use liquid detergent

Skip the fabric softener.

Powdered detergents can leave residue trapped in linen's natural texture. A mild liquid detergent works best. Skip the fabric softener too. Linen gets softer on its own with each wash.

04 · The load

Don't overcrowd

Give your covers room to move.

Washing with too many items causes friction that can damage the fabric. A roomy drum lets the water and detergent do their work, and the cover comes out looking like itself.

Oat Stripe Arlem Bedhead Cushion on a neatly made bed
05 · The finish

Dry it gently

Line dry in the shade, or tumble dry low. High heat shrinks linen and weakens the fibres.

Linen actually gets softer with every wash. Don't be afraid to wash your covers regularly.

When it happens

Dealing with stains

For small stains, spot clean with cold water and a tiny amount of detergent before washing. Avoid bleach.

If you have a stubborn stain, soak the cover in cold water with a gentle stain remover for 30 minutes before washing.

Your call

To iron or not

Linen wrinkles. That's part of its character. If you prefer a crisp look, iron while the fabric is still slightly damp using a medium-high heat setting.

If you like the relaxed, lived-in look, skip the iron entirely.

While the cover dries

Same cushion, new look

Covers zip off and swap over, so wash day is also the easiest moment to change the colour. The insert stays, the bedroom changes.

Washing questions, answered