How Do You Clean or Wash Hemp Linen and Bedding?

Ever wondered if you're cleaning your hemp sheets the right way?

I get it. You splurged on these gorgeous hemp sheets and now you're a bit anxious about chucking them in the washer. Don't stress—I've got your back. I'll walk you through exactly how to clean your hemp bedding, so they stay fresh, soft, and sleep-ready (and you stay relaxed).

So, can you actually wash hemp linen in the machine?

Yes, absolutely! Hemp linen isn't like your delicate silks or temperamental cashmere jumpers. It's robust enough to handle a regular washing machine spin without much drama. I prefer using a gentle, cold-water cycle—it’s easier on your sheets and your electricity bill. And who doesn’t love saving a few bucks on the side?

There's always some confusion about the difference between hemp sheets and regular linen sheets. If you've used linen, you'll find hemp behaves similarly but actually holds up even better in the wash.

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What detergent should I use for hemp bedding?

I always recommend using a mild, eco-friendly detergent. Harsh chemicals might work wonders on grease-stained jeans, but your hemp bedding prefers the gentle stuff. Choose something natural and preferably biodegradable—it aligns perfectly with why you chose hemp in the first place, right?

I've read that a dash of white vinegar in the rinse cycle keeps the fibres soft. Trust me, vinegar isn't just good for salads. It works magic on fabric softness without leaving your bed smelling like chips.

Here's another handy article if you're keen to dive deeper into detergent dos and don’ts for hemp.

Drying hemp bedding without the panic

Now, drying your sheets correctly is crucial. I personally prefer air-drying. Let them bask in the sun and breeze—it’s good for your sheets and gives you an excuse to spend a few minutes outside, possibly with a cuppa in hand.

If you're living in an apartment or don't have the luxury of backyard sunshine, tumble drying is okay. Just ensure it’s set on low heat or air fluff. High heat can make the fibres unhappy, shrinking your sheets. Unless you're aiming for fitted sheets for your pet koala (adorable but not practical), low heat is your friend.

Need extra drying tips? I’ve covered how to dry sheets naturally, even in apartments, right here.

Dealing with stains—no worries, I got you

Life happens. Coffee spills, rogue chocolates, or accidental red wine art installations—been there, done that. The key is acting fast. Spot clean stains with a little cold water and gentle detergent. Avoid hot water initially, as it could set stains forever, and nobody wants that kind of permanence in their life.

If your sheets have yellowed slightly (totally normal), check out my favourite three ways to naturally whiten your sheets. It's eco-friendly and sheet-friendly—a total win-win.

Wrinkles or no wrinkles?

Here's where the Reddit wisdom really shines through. Many people worry about wrinkles in their linen. Honestly, hemp sheets do wrinkle—but that's part of their charm. I say embrace the wrinkles. It's character, not messiness.

If wrinkles really aren't your vibe, you can iron hemp linen when slightly damp. Use low heat and a bit of steam, and they'll look pristine in no time. Personally, I'd rather spend those extra minutes in bed, but you do you!

Want to minimise creases without ironing? Check out my easy tips here.

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How often should you wash hemp bedding?

This one always sparks debate. I suggest weekly washing for pillowcases and fortnightly for your sheets and doona covers. Hemp has natural antimicrobial properties, meaning it stays fresher longer compared to other fabrics. Plus, the fabric actually gets softer with each wash. Can regular cotton sheets promise that? Nope.

Still deciding between cotton or hemp sheets? My breakdown of hemp vs cotton might convince you.

Final tips and tricks (from someone who's washed a lot of hemp sheets)

1. Avoid fabric softeners—they coat fibres and reduce breathability.

2. Don’t overload your washing machine. Sheets love space to swirl.

3. Store sheets somewhere airy, not crammed in a dark cupboard.

Still unsure or have more questions? Reach out anytime on our contact page. I’m here to chat, give advice, or just listen to your laundry tales.

So go on, wash those sheets without fear and enjoy the soft, fresh, earth-friendly results.

Love,

Oscar from Jo Dope