Natural Fabric Care Guide
Natural fabrics are derived from the fibers of animal hides, plant seeds, stems and leaves, as well as silkworm cocoons. They are soft, breathable, and UV light does not cause discoloration. Every guide contains the necessary care instructions for washing, drying, and ironing, as well as important points to remember.
General Tips for All Fabrics
- Always check care labels before washing.
- Sort laundry by fabric type and color to prevent bleeding and friction damage.
- Avoid overloading washing machines to reduce abrasion.
- Use mesh bags for delicate items.
- Pre-treat stains appropriately and avoid hot water for protein-based stains (blood, sweat).
Semi Wool
Semiwool is a blend of wool and synthetic or natural fibers. It offers warmth and structure while being more affordable and easier to maintain than pure wool.
Washing:
- Prefer dry cleaning to maintain shape and texture.
- If hand washing is necessary, use cold water and mild wool detergent.
- Do not wring; instead, press out water gently.
Drying:
- Lay flat on a towel in a shaded area to air dry.
- Avoid hanging to prevent stretching.
Ironing:
- Use a low to medium heat setting with steam.
- Always iron on the reverse side or with a pressing cloth to avoid shine.
Storage:
- Store folded with cedar or lavender sachets to repel moths.
Rayon Twill
Rayon viscose is a semi-synthetic fiber made from regenerated cellulose. It has a silky feel but is delicate, especially when wet.
Washing:
- Hand wash in cold water with mild detergent.
- Avoid soaking or wringing; it can distort the shape.
- For machine washing, use gentle cycle with a mesh laundry bag.
Drying:
- Lay flat to dry on a towel.
- Do not tumble dry as it may shrink or lose shape.
Ironing:
- Use low heat on the reverse side.
- Iron while slightly damp or use a cloth to prevent direct heat.
Storage:
- Store hanging if wrinkle-resistant, or folded for delicate weaves
Denim
Rayon viscose is a semi-synthetic fiber made from regenerated cellulose. It has a silky feel but is delicate, especially when wet.
Washing:
- Hand wash in cold water with mild detergent.
- Avoid soaking or wringing; it can distort the shape.
- For machine washing, use gentle cycle with a mesh laundry bag.
Drying:
- Lay flat to dry on a towel.
- Do not tumble dry as it may shrink or lose shape.
Ironing:
- Use low heat on the reverse side.
- Iron while slightly damp or use a cloth to prevent direct heat.
Storage:
- Store hanging if wrinkle-resistant, or folded for delicate weaves
Silk
Silk is a luxurious natural fiber with a soft sheen and elegant drape. It’s delicate and requires gentle handling.
Washing:
- Prefer dry cleaning, especially for structured or dyed silk garments.
- For hand wash, use cold water and special silk detergent.
- Do not rub or wring.
Drying:
- Lay flat on a towel and roll to absorb water, then air dry flat.
- Avoid sunlight and never tumble dry.
Ironing:
- Use a low heat setting.
- Iron inside out while still slightly damp, or use a pressing cloth.
Storage:
- Hang or fold with acid-free tissue.
- Avoid direct contact with wood or plastic hangers that may stain.
Satin
Satin refers to the weave, not the fiber. Satin can be made from silk, polyester, or blends. It has a glossy front and a dull back.
Washing:
- Hand wash or use a gentle machine cycle with cold water.
- Use a mild detergent; avoid bleach or fabric softeners.
Drying:
- Air dry on a flat surface or hang indoors.
- Do not wring or tumble dry.
Ironing:
- Iron on the reverse side using low heat.
- Avoid water spray as it may leave marks.
Storage:
- Hang on padded hangers or fold with care to avoid creases and snags.
Cotton
Cotton is breathable, durable, and easy to care for, making it one of the most used fibers in garments.
Washing:
- Machine washable in cold or warm water.
- Use regular detergent; avoid over-bleaching as it weakens the fibers.
Drying:
- Tumble dry on low to medium heat.
- Remove promptly to prevent wrinkles.
Ironing:
- Iron while slightly damp or use a steam iron.
- Use high heat for thicker cottons, medium heat for finer weaves.
Storage:
- Store folded or hung in a cool, dry place.
Knitting Fabric
Knitted fabrics stretch easily and are prone to shape distortion if mishandled. They include jersey, rib knit, interlock, etc.
Washing:
- Use cold water and gentle cycle.
- For wool or delicate knits, hand wash with a soft detergent.
Drying:
- Never hang wet knits. Instead, lay flat to dry to maintain shape.
- Tumble drying is not recommended for delicate knits.
Ironing:
- Most knits don’t need ironing; if needed, use low heat and steam lightly.
- Avoid pressing too hard.
Storage:
- Store folded to avoid stretching.
- For long-term storage, place in breathable bags.