Linen or Flax are foreign names, but here in Iceland we talk about linen.
Linen is a natural fiber from the fibers of the flax plant, Linum usitatissimum.
A brief history of flax
It has been used for centuries - since around 10,000 years ago - to make everything from canvas and wallpaper to clothing and bedding.
The Egyptians used the strength and durability of linen to wrap pharaoh mummies, and medieval knights wore linen shirts and trousers under their armor.
Over the years, people began to use the word linen for household goods, such as bedclothes, tablecloths, towels, etc., although they were not always made of actual linen.
Benefits of flax
If you have already encountered some type of linen in your life, you may be familiar with its main features, but for those new to linen, here are the main reasons behind its popularity:
Hair is very hygroscopic
The hair fibers from which the linen is made are hollow and absorb moisture well—to be more precise, they can absorb up to 20% of their own weight in water before becoming damp. This is an important feature for towels, swimwear, bedding and clothing.
Hair breathes very well
In addition to absorbing the moisture well, the linen fibers can also get rid of it very quickly. The linen plant is hollow, which allows for greater air permeability, so linen dries quickly and does not stick to the body.
Linen is also a natural insulator which means it keeps you cool in the summer but retains the heat your body gives off in the colder months.
Hair is non-allergenic
Hair has many health benefits - some claim it makes wounds heal faster and helps heal some skin conditions, such as eczema. But most importantly, linen is non-allergenic and perfect for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
What is stone-washed linen?
Linen is stone washed for maximum softness.
The stone washing process is a technique where stones are used, most often pumice or volcanic stones are used. They are put in industrial washing machines together with the linen material and it is washed together for several cycles until the material becomes soft to the touch.
Is flax sustainable?
Sustainable origin of flax,
Flax itself is a natural fiber from the flax plant, which is a renewable resource that grows even in poor soil and good, and generally requires no pesticides. Flax production uses the entire flax plant and leaves no waste. It completely decomposes in nature and is easily recycled, making it one of the most sustainable materials in the world.
How environmentally friendly is linen?
OEKO-TEX® certified material
The production of textiles can be a complex process, involving various methods and all kinds of materials that can be harmful to you and the environment. The linen from MagicLinen is Oeko-Tex certified, which means it is completely free of all harmful substances.
What about the packaging?
Degradable product packaging
The packaging the linen comes in is 100% biodegradable and is made from corn starch and PBAT, an organic polymer, which means it leaves no harmful residue when it breaks down. The packaging breaks down in just 6 months (180 days).
