Linen Sling Care: Washing, Drying, and Softening Tips

Quick answer

Machine wash your linen sling on a gentle cycle with cold water, then air dry or tumble dry on low. To soften, wash repeatedly or add a half cup of baking soda to the rinse cycle.

How to wash, dry, and soften your linen sling

1. 1. Pre-treat stains gently: Spot-clean any stains with a mild soap and cool water before washing. Rub the fabric gently—do not scrub, as this can distort the weave. Common mistake: using bleach or stain removers with optical brighteners. These can discolor natural linen fibers.
2. 2. Machine wash on gentle cycle: Place the sling in a mesh laundry bag to protect the rings. Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild, liquid detergent. Avoid fabric softeners—they coat the fibers and reduce breathability. Checkpoint: always close all rings before washing to prevent them from snagging the fabric.
3. 3. Air dry or tumble dry on low: Remove the sling promptly after the wash cycle ends. For air drying, hang flat or over a drying rack away from direct sunlight. For machine drying, use the lowest heat setting and remove while slightly damp to avoid over-drying. Common mistake: wringing or twisting the wet sling to remove water. This can stretch the fabric unevenly. Instead, press gently between towels.
4. 4. Soften with repeated washing or baking soda: Linen naturally softens with each wash. To speed up the process, add half a cup of baking soda to the rinse cycle. This helps relax the fibers without leaving residue. Checkpoint: do not use vinegar—it can affect the color of dyed linen slings over time.
5. 5. Store flat or loosely folded: Once fully dry, fold the sling loosely and store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid hanging by the rings for long periods, as the weight can stress the fabric at the attachment point. Common mistake: storing the sling in a plastic bin or bag, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew.

Product facts

• Swan - Linen Sling: The Swan Linen Sling from WildBird features a warm gray and white alternating weave and is available in Standard 74" and Long 90" sizes. The alternating weave pattern means the fabric may show water spots if not dried evenly, so always smooth the sling flat before air drying.