8 Easy Ways to Remove Lint from Linen

Various types of grime, such as hair, dirt, and sweat, can cause lint to accumulate slowly on many garments. For linens, there are different ways to go about removing it. Lint found on linens is broken fibers that have come loose from other fabrics and settled on the surface of the garments. The one thing to remember is that lint loves friction, static, and heat, which is why it is so difficult to remove in the first place. For many hospitality properties, it is a frustrating nuisance, so these eight ways to remove lint from linens prove helpful.

How to Remove Lint

1) Masking Tape or a Lint Roller

Masking tape can remove it the same way as a lint roller. Apply the sticky side of the tape to the linen and then peel away. Housekeeping can use separate pieces of tape to remove it or wrap it around their hand and run it along the fabric. A roller uses the same ‘sticky’ technique; to use the roller, staff needs to roll the sticky side onto the garment. Then when done, remove the used tape, and a new one will be available.

2)  Turn Linen Inside Out

Staff can turn certain linens inside out when washing. This protects the outer layer from the friction and static that collects fuzz. It also prevents the other linens from shedding onto the entire laundry load and keeps the lint more contained.

3) Use Distilled White Vinegar

Using vinegar might seem random and out of the blue, but it is highly recommended. Add one cup of vinegar to the wash during its final rinse cycle, and it will remove the fuzz and fluff up the fibers. The vinegar reduces the static, making the lint less likely to stick to the linen. Like a fabric softener, it also helps soften the linens while acting as a natural cleaner and whitener and removing odors and stains.

4) A Cool Wash

Hospitality properties should wash the linen in cold water on a lower wash cycle. A cool temperature will produce less lint and friction than a warmer wash. The staff must be mindful of overloading the washer, which could make separating the fabric fuzz more difficult.

5) Sort Your Linens

Like a regular wash, management can prevent other clothes from collecting lint by sorting the linens according to their weight. The heavier linens will naturally cause more friction while washing due to their weight and the creation of static. Staff must separate delicate linens from the rest to prevent damage and lint build-up. Separating based on colors will reduce the visibility of the lint on the linens, but not the amount. Also, isolating the other linens more prone to creating lint prevents an extensive build-up.

6) A Cloth Brush

A gentle cloth brush usually has a wooden handle and bristles. Use the brush to make light, soft strokes in a single direction. This method is one of the more effective methods for lifting lint, dirt, and other particles to the surface and removing them from the linens.

7) A Hairdryer

If staff are short on time, they can hang the linen and turn the hairdryer on its cool temperature setting. Then, turn the hairdryer on high and use the other hand to brush the lint off with any of the other tools mentioned.

8) A Razor or Small Scissors

A simple razor or scissors can also help to remove it. If the staff members are meticulous, a safety razor or a small pair of nail scissors can be ideal for removing hair and collecting lint. Housekeeping must pull the linen taut for both items and lightly brush the razor or scissors over the surface in small strokes.

InnStyle is Here to Help Your Property

InnStyle offers a wide variety of linens and wants property managers to have a vast knowledge of how to care for linens. With the understanding of how to safely remove lint, there is a better chance of a higher quality, longer-lasting product. Some recommended products are their InnStyle 600 Wrinkle Free Sheets, InnStyle Suites Towel, and the Loft Blanket. If you have any questions, please call InnStyle and speak with one of their account managers. They are always happy to help! InnStyle can be reached at 267-354-6020 or 800-877-4667. Their website is https://www.innstyle.com/.