A Modern Mordant for Linen, Hemp & Other Plant Fibres
Aluminium lactate is a highly effective mordant for natural dyeing on cellulose fibres such as linen, hemp, cotton, ramie and nettle. Produced from lactic acid obtained through the fermentation of renewable materials from the sugar and starch industry, it offers a sustainable alternative to aluminium acetate while producing equally vibrant and colourfast results.
Unlike some mordants, aluminium lactate dissolves completely at room temperature, making it easy to use and highly suitable for both beginners and experienced dyers.
This product is certified compliant with GOTS 6.0 standards.
Product Details
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Aluminium Lactate |
| Function | Mordant for cellulose fibres |
| Solubility | Fully soluble at room temperature |
| Certification | GOTS 6.0 Compliant |
| Origin | Produced from renewable raw materials |
| Suitable Fibres | Linen, hemp, cotton, ramie, nettle and other cellulose fibres |
Why Use Aluminium Lactate?
Natural dyes require a mordant to form a lasting bond with cellulose fibres. Aluminium lactate helps improve:
- Colour depth and brightness
- Wash fastness
- Light fastness
- Dye uptake on plant fibres
It is particularly suitable for:
- Linen
- Hemp
- Cotton
- Ramie
- Nettle
- Other cellulose fibres
The colours obtained are typically bright, clear and intense.
Recommended Mordanting Process
For best results on cellulose fibres, we recommend a two-step process.
Step 1 – Tannin Bath
Before mordanting, treat the fibre with a tannin for 1-24h, in a cold bath. Once finished, wring the fabric out gently or simply let it drip for 10min before adding it to the Lactate bath.
Low colour tannins include:
- Oak Gallnut
- Sumach Gallnut
- Tara Powder
For a stronger background tone, you can also use:
- Acacia Extract
- Myrobalan
- Chestnut Extract
Step 2 – Aluminium Lactate Bath
Use aluminium lactate in the same way and proportions as aluminium acetate.
The mordant dissolves fully at room temperature and produces excellent results on plant fibres.
After mordanting, rinse lightly and proceed with your dye bath.
Suggested Usage Rates
| Fibre Weight (WOF) | Aluminium Lactate |
| 100g fibre | 5–8g |
| 500g fibre | 25–40g |
| 1kg fibre | 50–80g |
As with all natural dyeing processes, sampling is recommended to determine the ideal mordant concentration for your fibres and dyes.
Learn More
If you're new to mordanting linen and other cellulose fibres, we have a collection of free guides and tutorials available on our blog:
https://appleoakfibreworks.com/blogs/news/tagged/how-to-mordant-linen
Topics include:
- How to Mordant Linen for Natural Dyeing
- Understanding Tannins and Cellulose Fibres
- Choosing the Right Mordant for Plant Fibres
Join Our Free Natural Dyeing Community
Looking to deepen your natural dyeing knowledge and connect with other passionate dyers?
Start by joining our free Natural Dyers Academy community, where you'll find inspiration, discussions, resources, and opportunities to learn more about natural dyes, mordanting, fibre preparation, colour exploration, dye plant cultivation, and sustainable textile practices.
Join the free community here:
https://the-natural-dyers-academy.mn.co/share/Mz7coMI6VgbJMchB?utm_source=manual
Inside the community you'll find:
- Natural dyeing discussions and inspiration
- Helpful resources and learning opportunities
- Dye plant growing and harvesting tips
- Colour studies and recipe sharing
- Community support from fellow natural dyers
- Information about workshops, courses, and Academy membership options
If you'd like more structured learning, in-depth tutorials, workshops, and exclusive resources, you can also explore our full Natural Dyers Academy membership from within the community.
Please Note
This product is intended for textile and craft use only.
Not intended for food, cosmetic or medicinal applications.
