Question from Amelie
Hi Debra,
Do you know anything about a fabric spray clothing retail stores are now using on linen clothing?
Recently, I purchased some linen clothing online. After they arrived, I noticed the clothing has a glossy sheen to them (more so than natural linen) and felt kind of slick.
I called the store and they told me that a fabric spray is used on linen to make it appear less wrinkled while hanging on stores shelves.
What do you think? Is the spray likely safe? Will it completely wash out of the fabric in one wash? Should I avoid linen clothes that have this?
Thanks!
Debra’s Answer
When I was researching fabric finishes, I learned that there are two types: finishes intended to improve fabric performance for the consumer for the life of the fabric and finishes intended to make the garments look good on the hanger.
Those finishes intended to improve fabric performance are permanent; those intended to make garments look good for sales purposes are temporary.
One such temporary finish, called “sizing” is made from cornstarch, and washes right out. That’s why when a garment is new it seems to have a shape, which falls out when you wash it.
I don’t know about these new linen finishes specifically, but it sounds like it will wash out.
