Fabric Care

Wash less, wear more

Not every item needs washing after every wear. Over-washing is one of the quickest ways to fade colours, weaken fibres and shorten the life of your clothes.

Instead:

  • Air clothes out between wears
  • Spot clean small marks where possible
  • Steam or refresh garments instead of washing
  • Use a clothing brush to remove dust, hair and surface marks

Your clothes (and the planet) will thank you.


Follow the care label, but understand the fabric too

Care labels are useful, but understanding the material itself helps you make better decisions. Natural fibres such as linen, cotton, silk and wool often respond beautifully to gentler care, while synthetic fibres like polyester can be durable but require thoughtful washing to reduce shedding and maintain quality.


Lower temperatures, longer lives

Washing at 30°C is usually enough for everyday clothing and helps preserve fibres, colour and energy. Higher temperatures can cause unnecessary wear, shrinkage and fading, especially with delicate or natural fabrics.


Air dry whenever possible

Tumble drying can put significant stress on clothing fibres. Where possible:

  • Hang garments to dry naturally
  • Reshape knitwear while damp
  • Avoid direct sunlight on darker fabrics to prevent fading

A little patience can dramatically extend the life of your wardrobe.


Store pieces properly

Good storage matters.

  • Fold knitwear rather than hanging to prevent stretching
  • Use quality hangers with shaped shoulders for coats and jackets
  • Give clothes space to breathe
  • Keep delicate pieces away from direct sunlight

Linen: The Beauty of Living With Creases

Linen is one of our favourite fibres, made from flax plants, it’s naturally breathable, durable and becomes softer and more beautiful with age. The relaxed texture of linen is part of its charm, those natural creases are a sign of the fabric’s character, not something to fight.


How to care for linen:

✓ Wash at 30°C on a gentle cycle

✓ Use a mild detergent

✓ Avoid harsh bleaching products

✓ Air dry where possible

✓ Iron while slightly damp if you prefer a smoother finish


Sustainability tip:

Linen doesn’t need frequent washing. A simple airing outside can often refresh a garment between wears.

Silk: A Delicate Fibre Worth Protecting

Silk is a natural protein fibre known for its softness, shine and luxurious feel. While delicate, well-cared-for silk pieces can last decades.

How to care for silk:

✓ Check the care label first

✓ Hand wash delicate silk pieces where suitable

✓ Use cool water and gentle detergent

✓ Avoid wringing or twisting

✓ Lay flat or hang carefully to dry

✓ Store away from direct sunlight


Avoid:
  • Perfume directly on silk
  • Harsh chemicals
  • High heat from irons or dryers

Sustainability tip:

Silk doesn’t need frequent washing. Airing and careful storage are often enough to keep pieces fresh.

Cotton: A Wardrobe Essential

Cotton is one of the most common fibres in our wardrobes, valued for its comfort, breathability and versatility. However, repeated high-temperature washing can cause shrinkage and wear over time.


How to care for cotton:

✓ Wash at 30°C where possible

✓ Wash darker colours inside out

✓ Avoid unnecessary tumble drying

✓ Reshape garments while damp

✓ Repair small holes or loose seams early


Sustainability tip:

Look for high-quality cotton pieces, they tend to hold their shape better and last significantly longer than cheaper alternatives.

Wool: Nature’s Clever Fibre

Wool is naturally insulating, breathable and surprisingly low maintenance. One of the biggest mistakes we make with wool is washing it too often. Wool fibres naturally resist odours and can often be refreshed simply by airing.


How to care for wool:

✓ Air between wears

✓ Spot clean where possible

✓ Wash only when needed

✓ Use specialist wool detergent

✓ Avoid heat and agitation

✓ Dry flat to maintain shape


Sustainability tip:

A well-made wool coat or knit can last for decades when properly cared for, making it one of the most valuable investments in a wardrobe.

Polyester & Synthetic Fabrics

Synthetic fabrics such as polyester are often criticised, but many garments already exist in our wardrobes and caring for them well is an important part of extending their life. Polyester is durable, crease-resistant and long-lasting, but it does require thoughtful care.


How to care for polyester:

✓ Wash at lower temperatures

✓ Avoid unnecessary washing

✓ Use a laundry bag to reduce microfibre shedding

✓ Air dry where possible

✓ Avoid excessive heat from dryers and irons


Sustainability tip:

The most sustainable choice is usually to use what already exists. A quality polyester garment that is worn for many years has a far lower impact than constantly replacing clothes.