Different kinds of fabrics: how to care for them

Different fabrics require that they are washed and treated diffferently. How is this supposed to be done?

When laundry day arrives, you are compelled to deal with different types of clothing. From school shirts to that fine woven scarf – every item requires TLC to keep it looking new for longer.

Here are a few tips to take make sure your fabrics receive the best care:

Silk

This is a delicate fabric that loses damages easily and that should therefore always be treated with as much care as possible. Silk fabrics should be washed separately by hand or alternatively on a gentle washing machine setting. If you are handwashing, use Sunlight bar soap and finish off your routine with Sunlight Gentle Fabric Conditioner thereafter. When ironing, make sure the iron is on its lowest setting. Silk does and high temperatures do not agree. Never tumble dry!

Spandex

This material is hand and machine-wash friendly. Do not use hot water or bleach in the wash water – your garment may get damaged. Avoid drying in the tumble drier. The heat in a tumble dryer can cause the spandex to bubble. Instead, hang out to dry outside.

Denim

Denims should ideally be washed inside out and separately from the rest of your load – especially if you’re washing them for the first time! Denim dye is known to run. Wash the denim load on the cold water setting and use a slower spin speed to avoid ‘bleach marks’.

Linen

Linen absorbs plenty of water so be mindful of overloading the washing machine. Always check the clothing label as linen is quite delicate. Use a gentle laundry detergent at all times when. If you have bought a coloured linen item, soak it in salt water before washing to ensure that the colour remains fast.

Giving your fabrics the TLC they need will help them last longer and prevent damage to your favourite items. Always use a good laundry detergent and you never really have to worry about a garment that has been “spoiled after just one wash” ever again!

 

 

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