Liturgical linens — corporals, purificators, palls, altar cloths — need special care because they come into contact with the Eucharist. Here's the complete guide to washing them properly.
For a more detailed walkthrough, also see our companion article on how to wash liturgical linens step by step.
The First Rinse
Before any washing, linens must be rinsed to remove any traces of the consecrated species. This is done in a bowl of water (not under a running tap). The rinse water is poured into the sacrarium or consumed.
Washing Instructions by Linen Type
| Linen | Washing Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Corporals | Hand wash or gentle machine cycle | Keep folded to trap particles |
| Purificators | Machine wash, warm water | May need extra rinsing |
| Palls | Remove cardboard insert first | Wash cover only, air dry |
| Altar cloths | Machine wash, warm water | Iron while damp for best results |
| Lavabo towels | Machine wash, warm water | Replace when frayed |
| Burses | Hand wash recommended | Press flat after drying |
| Lectern covers | Machine wash, warm water | Iron on reverse side |
Lectern and Pulpit Covers
A lectern or pulpit cover is a seasonal textile, not an altar linen, but it needs the same gentle care: wash separately in cold water, iron on the reverse while damp, and store flat or rolled so the embroidery does not crease. Our embroidered lectern and pulpit covers are made from an 80% polyester / 20% wool blend or stain-resistant tablecloth fabric. For a full method, see How to Clean and Store Lectern and Pulpit Covers.
What I Recommend
Wash linens weekly after Sunday Mass. Have enough sets to last between washes — minimum 6 corporals and 12 purificators for a typical parish.
For a coordinated look, consider our embroidered chalice linen sets which include matching corporals, purificators, and palls. We also carry chalice cover veils and ciborium veils to complete your altar linen collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use bleach on liturgical linens?
A: Bleach is permitted for white linens but should be used sparingly. It weakens the fabric over time. Try oxygen-based bleach first.
Q: How do I store clean linens?
A: Store clean linens in a dry, clean sacristy cabinet. Avoid plastic bags — linen needs to breathe. Many sacristans use vestment hangers or dedicated linen shelves to keep everything organized.
Related Products
Complete your sacristy with these essential liturgical linens:
- Embroidered Corporals — square linens for the altar
- Embroidered Purificators — for wiping sacred vessels
- Embroidered Palls — chalice covers during Mass
- Embroidered Lavabo Towels — for the priest's hand washing
- Embroidered Burses — to carry the corporal
- Burse for Sick Call Paten — for visiting the sick
- Complete Chalice Linen Sets — coordinated sets
- Embroidered Altar Tablecloths — for the altar itself
Conclusion
Washing liturgical linens is a ministry of reverence and care. Do it properly, and your linens will serve your parish beautifully for years.
Browse our full collection of liturgical linens and textiles — from corporals and purificators to altar cloths and humeral veils.
