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How to Wash Hemp

Hemp washes at 30–40°C on a normal cycle. The right detergent, how to dry it, and the one mistake that causes most hemp damage.

Fabric Care1 min readPublished Priya Nair

In short

  • Wash at 30–40°C (86–104°F) on a normal cycle, using standard.
  • Dry line dry. Iron: hot, while damp.
  • Hemp can shrink or distort, so temperature and drying method matter more than detergent choice.

Hemp is among the strongest natural fibres and, like linen, is stronger wet than dry — it tolerates washing that would destroy cotton.

How to wash hemp

Care guidance by garment
GarmentWashDryNotes
Hemp30–40°C (86–104°F)line drystandard
Care guidance by garment

Use a normal cycle and standard. It softens substantially over the first ten or so washes. New hemp feels stiff and that is not a defect.

Drying and ironing

Dry line dry. For ironing: hot, while damp.

It resists mould and UV better than cotton, which is why it lasts outdoors where other natural fibres fail.

How long it should last

Ten to twenty-five years.

Quick reference

Hemp at a glance

  • Wash: 30–40°C (86–104°F)
  • Cycle: normal
  • Detergent: standard
  • Dry: line dry
  • Iron: hot, while damp

Frequently asked questions

What temperature should I wash hemp at?

30–40°C (86–104°F), on a normal cycle with standard.

Does hemp shrink?

Yes. Hemp is prone to shrinking or distorting, which is why the temperature and drying method matter more than which detergent you use.

How should I dry hemp?

Line dry.

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