Guide To Cleaning Different Fabrics
Cleaning Different Fabrics
When it comes to cleaning any type of fabric, then the first rule of thumb is to read the item’s label and laundry symbols for the best cleaning practices. This way, the fabric will look better and last longer. If, however, there’s no label to guide you, then you can refer to the below instructions.
Acrylic
Acrylic is machine washable in warm water but because it’s often paired with other fibres, it may be safer to wash such items by hand.
Cashmere
Cashmere can be cleaned in a washing machine if you have a setting for delicates or wool. It is important, however, that you place them in a lingerie bag beforehand. Alternatively, cashmere can be hand-washed in cold water. You can use a few capfuls of baby shampoo to keep the cashmere soft and fluffy.
Cotton
When it comes to cotton, you can wash white cottons in hot water. Coloured cotton fabrics should, however, be washed in warm or cold water so that the colours do not run into each other.
Leather/Suede
Leather should be cleaned using a product purposefully designed for wiping this type of fabric clean. You can also wipe the leather with a warm damp cloth if you do not have a product on hand.
As for suede, we strongly suggest that you use a suede protector to keep the fabric water-repellent.
Linen
Linen can be cleaned in the washing machine but try not to overcrowd linen clothes in the washer. Use cold water and give items some room.
Nylon
Caring for nylon is easy. It’s machine-washable, moisture-resistant, and washable in either warm or cold water.
Polyester
A warm wash cycle is ideal for polyester. You can even tumble dry it on a low heat setting.
Viscose
Viscose can shrink easily and as such, we recommend dry-cleaning viscose fabrics. If you insist on DIY-ing it, then wash them by hand in cold water and let them air dry.
Silk
It’s preferable to dry-clean silk but if you give it a gentle hand wash, then you shouldn’t cause damage to the fibres.
Spandex
Spandex can be machine washed on a warm setting. Since the fabric does hold odours, we suggest using a sports detergent for a thorough clean.
Wool
Many wool fabrics are machine washable and most washers feature a delicates or wool setting. Keep in mind, however, that strong detergents can be hard on wool, so use a mild brand if you can.
Be sure to bookmark this page so that you can refer to it for future advice on cleaning different fabrics – after you have referred to the item’s label for caring instructions, that is.
Sources:
- How to Care for Different Types of Fabrics – DIY
- Different Fabrics Means Different Washing Methods – Automatic Laundry