There’s something undeniably special about the fresh, crisp linens in a high-end hotel. The way they feel impossibly soft and smell subtly luxurious makes you wonder—what’s their secret?
While professional laundering plays a role, the truth is that you can achieve the same effect at home with the right techniques.
From the detergent you use to how you dry and store your linens, small adjustments can make all the difference. Here’s how to transform your laundry routine and enjoy that five-star feeling every time you slip into bed or grab a fresh towel.
Start With the Right Detergent
Luxury hotels don’t use harsh, overpowering detergents. Instead, they opt for gentle, high-quality formulas that clean effectively without leaving residue.
That’s why many people turn to Freddie, a brand that makes Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent Sheets. These sheets dissolve completely in water, ensuring no leftover product clings to fabrics.
Using a mild, eco-friendly detergent also helps protect the fibers of your linens, preventing them from becoming rough over time. When you choose a detergent that cleans without heavy perfumes or artificial brighteners, your fabrics stay naturally soft and fresh.
Wash With Warm (Not Hot) Water
High temperatures might seem like the best way to kill bacteria, but excessively hot water can damage fabrics, causing them to fade and lose softness. Most luxury hotels wash their linens in warm water—around 104°F—to keep them clean without compromising their quality.
For towels and sheets, warm water is usually enough to remove dirt and bacteria while keeping fibers intact. If you’re dealing with stubborn stains, pre-treat them before washing rather than relying on scorching hot water.
Skip the Fabric Softener
It might seem counterintuitive, but fabric softener can actually make your laundry feel less luxurious. Over time, it builds up on fabrics, making them stiff and less absorbent. This is why hotel towels stay fluffy and fresh without feeling coated in residue.
Instead of using liquid fabric softeners or dryer sheets, try adding a half cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Vinegar naturally softens fabrics and removes any lingering detergent buildup. If you want an extra hint of fragrance, a few drops of essential oil can be added to wool dryer balls before tossing them in the dryer.
Perfect the Drying Process
The way you dry your laundry plays a major role in how soft and inviting it feels. Hotel-quality linens aren’t over-dried, as excessive heat can weaken fibers and cause stiffness.
For best results, dry towels and sheets on a lower heat setting and remove them while they’re still slightly damp.
Letting them air dry the rest of the way prevents overheating and helps maintain their plush texture. If you have the space, line drying outdoors can add a natural freshness that no artificial scent can replicate.
Store Linens Like a Pro
Once your laundry is clean and dry, proper storage is key to maintaining that crisp, hotel-like feel. Instead of cramming sheets and towels into a linen closet, fold them neatly and stack them loosely to allow air circulation.
For an extra touch of luxury, store linens with a small sachet of dried lavender or cedarwood. This keeps them smelling fresh while naturally repelling musty odors.
The Little Luxuries Make a Big Difference
Transforming your laundry routine doesn’t require fancy equipment or industrial-grade products. The real secret lies in using the right detergent, washing at the right temperature, and avoiding harsh additives that do more harm than good.
By making a few small changes, you can enjoy sheets and towels that feel as fresh, soft, and luxurious as the ones in your favorite five-star hotel. Because let’s be honest—there’s nothing better than sinking into a perfectly made bed at the end of the day.
