Looking after one’s clothing is as important as the pieces you choose to buy. By adhering to the treatments that fabrics require, clothing’s durability will last, and require no additional maintenance or repairs. It will also ensure that the items remain the same colour, shape and size as they were when originally bought.
With regards to the dry cleaners, avoid going too regularly as the heavy cleaning process can have a damaging effect on clothing if used too often. Also, try to avoid using the tumble dryer as much as possible as it's bad for your clothes and the environment, therefore it’s better to invest in a clothes horse or hang clothes outside on the line. Avoid hot water washes as much as possible too, to minimise on shrinkage and colour loss. It is necessary to separate darks and lights, and to always remember to empty your pockets prior to a wash. Use detergent sparingly, and don’t forget to use fabric softener.
With those guidelines in mind, familiarise yourself with how fabrics should be washed to ensure their longevity and lasting condition.
Cashmere
Cashmere is fragile, and therefore requires a hand-wash. If you choose to buy cashmere, ensure that it is treated right by washing the item in warm water. Avoid holding wet cashmere by the shoulders, as this can affect its shape. For best results, dry flat.
Denim
A pair of jeans’ longevity is dependent on the number of washes, therefore only wash when necessary. With jeans or a shirt, hand-wash with cold water, inside out. Allow to hang dry naturally.
Leather
Despite its tough guy exterior, it’s best to clean leather with a warm cloth. For stains that are harder to remove, professional cleaning kits can be used. It’s recommended that costs shouldn’t be compromised if using a kit, in order to ensure that the product is of a high standard, and won’t affect the look of the leather.
Silk
Silk marked ‘dry clean only’ should not be washed. At the dry cleaners, ask to use as little chemicals as possible. With washable silks, use warm water with mild detergent. Do not soak, boil, wring out or bleach silk items. When drying, allow the item to hang. To remove creases, use a warm (never hot) iron on the wrong side of the garment.
Suede
A suede brush can be used to remove dirt or stains; and water should be avoided. If this doesn’t work, it is recommended that you consult a reputable professional. Suede should be protected, which should be applied after each clean. Looking after suede involves buying a protective spray that helps to repel dirt. Avoid exposing suede items to sunlight when not in use.
Wool
Wool items should be hand-washed in tepid water with detergent. To avoid shrinking and affecting the shape, wool should be dried flat rather than wrung out.
Bamboo
Bamboo has burst onto the scene as a fresh, environmentally friendly and more sustainable fabric to use. We make our
socks from bamboo fibres and washing instructions are extremely important to keep your socks in good condition for as long as possible.
We suggest hand washing your bamboo items - especially your socks. But if that's not going to happen then it's important to use a lukewarm wash. Avoid boiling water washes at all costs as your bamboo will definitely be damaged.
