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While modern appliances like washing machines and dryers have certainly made laundry less of a hassle, there are still tasks to be done. Sorting the clothes, choosing the right detergent and water temperature, moving the laundry to the dryer, folding it, and occasionally ironing some items are still part of the process. In other words, laundry remains a chore.
With the wide variety of fabrics and their specific care needs, laundry can feel overwhelming. This article offers valuable tips and instructions on how to properly care for your beloved garments made from natural fibers like cotton, linen, silk, and wool.
Cotton
Let the Machines Handle It
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Cotton is a durable, long-lasting, and highly absorbent fabric. However, it has a tendency to shrink and wrinkle unless treated properly. Often, cotton is mixed with other fibers or coated with a finish to enhance its resistance to wrinkles. It comes in a wide range of weights and textures.
- Machine-wash cotton fabrics and tumble-dry, adjusting the water temperature from cold to hot based on the manufacturer's instructions, and use a standard detergent.
- If necessary, chlorine bleach can be used on white or colorfast cotton, unless a finish has been applied. Be sure not to exceed the recommended amount of bleach, as this can weaken the fibers.
- Use fabric softener to increase softness and reduce wrinkles, but avoid using it on towels, washcloths, or diapers, as it reduces cotton's absorbency.
- For the best results, iron cotton with a hot iron. To achieve a crisp finish, you can use spray starch or sizing spray.
Linen
Linen fabric, although highly absorbent and comfortable, is prone to wrinkling. To combat this, many manufacturers create linen blends or apply wrinkle-resistant finishes. Over time, linen can wear at the seams, along creases, or at the garment's finished edges.
- Machine-wash linen and tumble-dry. Use an all-purpose detergent for optimal results.
- Chlorine bleach is safe for white linen, but always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the correct amount.
- For the best finish, press the fabric with a hot iron while it is still slightly damp.
Silk
Silk is a luxurious fabric to wear, but it demands careful attention. Many silk garments are labeled "Dry-clean Only," though some can be hand-washed. Before washing any silk, test a small corner for colorfastness, as some dyed silks may bleed.
- For hand-washing, use a protein-rich hair shampoo and warm or cool water. The protein nourishes the silk. Handle silk delicately while washing—avoid twisting or wringing it. Allow silk to air-dry, away from direct sunlight.
- Iron silk while it is still damp with a warm iron (below 275°F), or opt for a steam iron.
Wool
Wool is a durable, absorbent fabric that resists wrinkles, but it can shrink and become matted if exposed to heat or friction. It is commonly used in both knit and woven fabrics. Wool comes in various textures, ranging from fine wool crepe and jersey to felt and mohair.
- Wool fabrics (excluding felt) should always be dry-cleaned unless labeled "Washable."
- If the garment is washable, soak it for a few minutes before washing. Use cold water and a gentle cycle only.
- Be gentle with wet woolens to prevent stretching. To remove excess moisture, roll the wool item in a towel, then reshape and dry it flat.
- To clean felt, wipe it with a dry sponge. For deeper cleaning, hold it over the steam from a teakettle and gently brush with a dry sponge or lint-free cloth to smooth the surface. ©2006 Publications International, Ltd. For cleaning felt, steam it from a teakettle and brush it lightly with a dry sponge.
- Machine-dry woolens only if specified by the manufacturer's care instructions.
- Iron wool with a hot iron, using ample steam. Always cover the fabric with a damp cloth while pressing.
- Ensure wool garments are fully dry before storing them.
