*Use only very mild detergents or linen washes. Don't use too much, and be careful not to pour them directly onto the fabric.

*Wash with similar colors on the gentle cycle with warm--not hot--water.

*Never use chlorine bleach or detergents with bleach. Enzyme-reactive stain removers may be used as needed.

*Forget fabric softeners. Buildup will coat threads and leave them brittle.

*Let the sheets air dry if possible. Otherwise, use the low setting on the dryer and take them out while they're still damp.

*Iron sheets while they're still slightly damp to the touch. When pressing monograms or embellishments, place them facedown on a thick towel to avoid flattening the design.