How to Care for Linen Shorts So They Last for Years

Quick answer

Wash linen shorts in cold water on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent, then reshape them and dry flat away from direct sun or heat. Skip the dryer entirely. This prevents linen shrinkage, protects the drawstring elastic waist, and keeps the fabric breathable for years.

Check the fabric blend before you wash

Pure linen and linen blends behave differently in the wash. The Drawstring Short is 100% linen, so it can shrink if exposed to hot water or high heat. A blend like the Gusset Shorts, made from 63% cotton and 37% nylon, is more resistant to shrinkage but still benefits from cold water and air drying. Always check the label first, and when in doubt, treat the garment as if it were pure linen. That conservative approach protects the fabric and the fit you paid for.

Pre-treat stains and empty pockets

Before washing, empty all pockets. Linen shorts often have large rear patch pockets or welt pockets, and small items left inside can damage the fabric or hardware during the cycle. For stains, dab a small amount of mild liquid detergent directly onto the spot and let it sit for five minutes. Do not rub aggressively, as linen fibers can weaken when wet and abraded. A soft toothbrush or your fingertip is enough.

Use cold water and a gentle cycle

Set your washing machine to cold water and the gentlest cycle available, such as delicate or hand-wash. Hot water is the main cause of linen shrinkage, and agitation can distort the shape of drawstring waists and elastic bands. If your machine has a low-spin option, use it. For extra safety, place the shorts in a mesh laundry bag. Use a mild, bleach-free detergent; harsh chemicals can break down linen fibers over time.

Skip the dryer and dry flat

Never put linen shorts in a tumble dryer. The heat and tumbling action cause shrinkage and can break down the fibers, leaving the fabric stiff and rough. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting. Lay the shorts flat on a clean towel or drying rack, reshaping them to their original dimensions. If you hang them, use a padded hanger and avoid direct sunlight, which can fade the color. Drying flat also helps the drawstring waist keep its shape.

Store folded, not hung

Once dry, fold your linen shorts and store them in a drawer. Hanging them for long periods can stretch the waistband and distort the shape, especially with heavier linen. If you must hang them, use a clip hanger on the waistband and give them room to breathe. Proper storage keeps them ready for the next wear without unnecessary stress on the fabric.

Step-by-step linen shorts care routine

1. Check the label and empty pockets: Confirm the fiber content. Pure linen like the Drawstring Short needs cold water; blends like the Gusset Shorts are more forgiving but still benefit from gentle care. Empty all pockets and close any zippers or buttons. Mistake to avoid: assuming all shorts can be washed the same way.
2. Pre-treat stains gently: Apply a small amount of mild liquid detergent to stains and let sit for five minutes. Do not rub harshly, as wet linen is weaker. Checkpoint: stains should be treated before the main wash, not after.
3. Wash cold on a gentle cycle: Use cold water and a delicate or hand-wash cycle with a mild, bleach-free detergent. If possible, place the shorts in a mesh bag and use low spin. Mistake to avoid: using hot water or a heavy-duty cycle, which causes shrinkage and wear.
4. Dry flat away from heat: Gently squeeze out water without wringing. Lay the shorts flat on a towel or drying rack, reshaping them to their original dimensions. Keep them out of direct sunlight and never use a dryer. Checkpoint: shorts should be fully dry before folding and storing.
5. Store folded, not hung: Fold the shorts and store them in a drawer. Hanging can stretch the waistband and distort the shape over time. Next step: rotate your shorts and avoid wearing the same pair multiple days in a row to let the fabric rest.

Product care notes

• Drawstring Short ~ Chocolate Linen: Made from 100% linen with a drawstring elastic waist and large rear patch pockets. Pure linen is prone to shrinkage, so cold washing and flat drying are essential to maintain fit and comfort.
• Gusset Shorts ~ Dune: Made from 63% cotton and 37% nylon with a gusseted crotch and elastic waistband. The nylon blend resists shrinkage better than pure linen, but cold water and air drying still protect the elastic waistband and extend the life of the shorts.