White linen is timeless, luxurious and crisp — but keeping it bright can be a challenge. Body oils, sunscreen, sweat, storage habits and harsh detergents can all cause linen to yellow or look dull over time.
At That’s Linen, we want your bedding to look as beautiful as the day it arrived, so we’ve compiled verified, research-based tips from trusted textile-care sources. No guesswork — only proven methods.
- Everyday Habits That Prevent Yellowing
Shower or rinse off before bed
Yellowing in white sheets is commonly caused by:
- body oils
- sweat
- dead skin cells
- lotions, moisturisers and hair products
A quick rinse before bedtime not only helps the body to unwind and rest well, it also helps to keep linen white and fresh for longer.
Sunscreen = the #1 enemy of white linen
Sunscreens — especially those containing avobenzone — interact with minerals in water and body oils, creating rust-coloured or yellow stains.
Avoid getting into bed with sunscreen on. Washing these chemicals off before bed prevents the most stubborn stains.
Self-tan & body oils
Both are known to cling to natural fibres like linen, causing persistent yellowing. Encourage household members or guests to shower before bed when using white linen.
- Washing: The Proven, Safe Method for White Linen
Use the right detergent
Textile experts recommend:
- mild, pH-neutral detergent
- no optical brighteners (they cause long-term dullness)
- no chlorine bleach (bleach can react with oils and make linen appear more yellow)
It may sound crazy, but skip the bleach — here’s why
Chlorine bleach can:
- weaken natural flax fibres
- cause yellowing when it reacts with oils
- create patchy discolouration
Safer alternatives are oxygen-based whiteners or natural boosters (below).
- Whitening Boosters (Backed by Actual Laundry Science)
Baking Soda + Vinegar Method
Try this method on your next load:
Step 1: Add ½ cup baking soda at the start of the wash cycle.
Step 2: Add ½ cup white vinegar into the fabric softener compartment OR during the final rinse.
This combination helps:
- lift oils
- remove odours
- brighten whites
- soften fabric naturally
Oxygen Whitening Powders
Safe for linen — unlike bleach.
These use sodium percarbonate, which breaks down into oxygen and hydrogen peroxide when mixed with water.
- Spot Treatment for Stains (Evidence-backed, gentle)
For yellow spots from sunscreen or oils:
Bed Threads recommends:
- Sprinkle baking soda directly on the stain.
- Add a few drops of white vinegar — it will fizz.
- Blot gently (do NOT rub).
- Wash as normal.
For fresh stains:
The sooner you treat them, the better. Linen is absorbent and stains set fast.
- Washing Best Practices
Wash in lukewarm or cold water
Linen likes cooler temperatures — we recommends cold or lukewarm cycles to prevent fibre weakening and yellowing.
Do not overload your washing machine
Linen, especially white linen, need space to move so detergent can work effectively.
Wash whites separately
Prevents dye transfer and dinginess.
- Drying & Storage — The Hidden Causes of Yellowing
Air dry whenever possible
Direct heat can lead to fibre stress and yellow tones.
If using a tumble dryer, stay on low heat and remove while still slightly damp.
Sunlight caution
Short sun exposure can freshen linen, but long, intense sunlight can yellow natural fibres over time.
Never store linen in plastic bags
Storing linen in plastic creates trapped moisture → yellowing + mildew risk.
Instead:
- use breathable cotton bags
- store in a cool, dry, dark cupboard
- avoid cedar chests (they release oils that can stain fabric)
- Hospitality Tip: Educate Your Guests (Politely!)
If you manage a guesthouse, Airbnb or hotel, consider a soft, friendly card that says:
“To help keep our linens bright and beautiful, we kindly ask guests to rinse off sunscreen, oils or self-tan before bed. Thank you for helping us care for them.”
This small step significantly reduces linen damage and replacement costs.
Final Thoughts
White linen is classic, elegant and luxurious — and with the right care, it stays that way. By following these evidence-based tips, you avoid yellowing, preserve softness, and keep your bedding looking its best.
If you ever need advice on caring for your linen, our team at That’s Linen is always here to help.
