How to Soften New Egyptian Cotton Sheets

Egyptian cotton sheets are often found in exclusive hotels.

Egyptian cotton sheets, considered by many to be luxurious, are used in fine hotels as well as by consumers seeking quality linens. Cotton grown in Egypt produces longer, more delicate fibers, which translates to better drape and more durability when woven. But even sheets with a high thread count may not feel as soft and yielding as you'd prefer. Over time this will change as the fabric relaxes. In the meantime, you can speed up the softening process.

Things You'll Need

• Laundry detergent
• Iron
• Ironing board

Instructions

1. Place the Egyptian cotton sheets in your washing machine separate from your other laundry. Add laundry detergent, but use only half the normal amount. The website Egyptian Cotton Warehouse reports that using half the amount of detergent will sufficiently clean and reduce damage to fibers from the cleaning agents.

2. Wash the sheets in cold water on the Gentle cycle. Remove immediately when they are finished and place them in your clothes dryer on the Warm setting or hang them on the line to dry.

3. Remove the sheets from the dryer or the line while still slightly damp to the touch. Iron the sheets with a warm iron.

Tips & Warnings

• With each washing, drying and ironing, the sheets will get softer and softer.

• Egyptian Cotton Warehouse advises against using fabric softeners or dryer sheets for these linens. In addition, do not use bleach as it can damage natural fibers.

References

• Royal Egyptian Cotton: About Egyptian Cotton
• Egyptian Cotton Warehouse: FAQs
• Gracious Style: Choosing Your Bed Linens