linstvätt

Linstvätt is a Swedish term that translates to "linen wash" or "laundry." It refers to the process of cleaning textiles, particularly household linens such as bed sheets, tablecloths, and towels. Historically, linstvätt was a significant and time-consuming chore, often involving extensive manual labor.

Traditional methods of linstvätt included boiling water in large coppers, scrubbing fabrics with homemade soap, and rinsing them in natural water sources like rivers or lakes. Drying was typically done outdoors on clotheslines, weather permitting. The advent of washing machines and modern detergents in the 20th century revolutionized linstvätt, making it a far less arduous task.

In contemporary Sweden, linstvätt is synonymous with domestic laundry. It encompasses washing clothes, bedding, and other fabrics using washing machines and dryers. The term can also refer to professional laundry services that handle large volumes of textiles, such as those for hotels, hospitals, or restaurants. The focus remains on maintaining hygiene and the appearance of fabrics through effective cleaning.