Grain Sack Care Guide – How to Wash & Maintain Vintage Hemp Pillows

Discover the best way to care for your authentic grain sack pillows and vintage hemp textiles. Follow this step-by-step guide on washing, drying, and ironing to preserve the natural texture and strength of handwoven fabric.

Close-up of authentic handwoven hemp fabric soaking in water with mild detergent bubbles for gentle cleaning.

1. Washing

Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle with low spin. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach strictly to protect the vintage fiber. Low spin is crucial to prevent deep creases.

Antique grain sacks hanging on a garden clothesline to air dry naturally in the sunlight to prevent shrinking.

2. Drying

Air dry only. Lay the sack flat or hang to dry. Never use a tumble dryer; the heat and rotation will cause the fabric to crumple, creating stubborn wrinkles that are impossible to iron out.

Steam iron pressing a textured antique hemp grain sack on high heat to smooth out creases while the fabric is damp.

3. Ironing

Iron while the fabric is still slightly damp. Use the maximum heat setting. High heat combined with moisture is necessary to smooth the thick hemp weave effectively.