Complete Guide to Fabric Care: Make Your Clothes Last Longer
Extend the life of your clothes with proper fabric care techniques ÔÇö washing, drying, ironing, and storage tips for cotton, silk, linen, and wool.
Proper fabric care extends the life of your garments and keeps them looking new. Here is everything you need to know.
Reading Care Labels
Always check the care label before washing. Symbols indicate washing temperature, bleaching instructions, drying method, and ironing temperature.
Cotton Care
Machine wash cotton in cold or warm water. Use a mild detergent. Cotton can shrink, so avoid hot water and high heat drying. Iron while slightly damp for best results.
Silk Care
Silk should be dry cleaned or hand washed in cold water with a gentle detergent. Never wring silk ÔÇö roll in a towel to remove excess water. Iron on low heat while still slightly damp.
Linen Care
Linen can be machine washed in warm water. It wrinkles naturally, but if you prefer a crisp look, iron while very damp. Linen gets softer with each wash.
Wool Care
Wool garments should be hand washed in cold water with a wool-specific detergent or dry cleaned. Lay flat to dry ÔÇö never hang wool, as it can stretch.
Storage Tips
Store clothes in a cool, dry place. Use padded hangers for delicate items and fold knits to prevent stretching. Moth repellents are essential for wool and silk storage.