Why Make The Effort?
Caring for your clothes is crucial for extending their lifespan, maintaining their appearance, and promoting sustainability. Proper washing, drying, cleaning, and storage prevent wear and tear, saving you money by reducing the need for frequent replacements. This mindful approach also helps preserve the fit and shape of your garments. By investing in your wardrobe, you support ethical fashion principles, encourage responsible consumption, and prioritize quality, ultimately making a positive impact on the planet.
Some Simple Steps
For all fabrics, always read the care label for specific instructions on washing and maintenance. Some items, such as wool and silk, may require dry cleaning.
Silks
Silks can be washed by hand using cool water and a mild detergent specifically for silk. Avoid agitation; gently swish the garment. If machine washing is allowed, use a mesh laundry bag and the delicate cycle with cold water.
Air dry by laying the silk garment flat on a clean towel to absorb moisture, then reshape and air dry away from direct sunlight. Avoid hanging, as this can stretch the fabric.
We advise customers to hang their silk garments in a steamy shower room the evening before wear to let creases fall out. If needed, iron on a low setting while the garment is slightly damp, or place a cloth between the iron and silk to prevent direct contact. A steamer also works well for silks.
Store silk garments in a cool, dry place. Use padded hangers or fold them to maintain their shape, and consider using garment bags to protect against dust and moths.
Wools & Cashmere
Wools can be washed by hand or machine on a wool cycle. Use cool or lukewarm water and a gentle detergent designed for wool. Avoid agitation; gently swish the garment instead.
Only machine wash if the label permits, using the wool cycle with cold water and a gentle spin.
After washing, reshape the garment and lay it flat on a clean towel to dry. Avoid hanging, as this can stretch the fibers. Keep it away from direct heat or sunlight.
Use a fabric shaver or a lint roller to carefully remove any pills that form on the surface, keeping the fabric looking fresh.
Store wool garments clean and dry, folded to avoid stretching. Consider using cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter moths, and keep them in a cool, dry place. During warmer seasons, it’s worth storing them in breathable bags to avoid dust and moths!
Linens and Cottons
Linens and cottons can be hand or machine washed. Use cold or warm water with a gentle detergent. Avoid overloading the washing machine to prevent wrinkling and damage. For delicate items, hand wash in cool water using a mild detergent, gently agitating without rubbing.
Lay flat or hang to dry in a shaded area to prevent fading. For cotton, you can tumble dry on a low setting but avoid high heat to prevent shrinkage. Take garments out of the dryer while slightly damp to minimize wrinkles.
Iron linen and cotton while they are still slightly damp for easier wrinkle removal. Use a medium to high heat setting and consider using steam.
Fold cotton garments to prevent creasing and hang linen garments to maintain their shape. Use breathable garment bags to protect against dust.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your garments looking beautiful for years to come!
