How to Care for Cotton Garments
14 Nov 2024
KathrynRobson
Cotton is a cornerstone in many of SABA’s work to weekend capsules. We love it for its durability, comfort, and breathability. To maintain these qualities and ensure the longevity of your cotton pieces, attentive care is essential.
Follow this guide for best practices in washing, drying, and ironing to keep your cotton clothing looking pristine.
Washing Cotton
The temperature that you wash your cotton pieces at is essential in ensuring their longevity.
White cotton garments can withstand temperatures up to 90°C, making high-temperature washes ideal when a thorough clean is necessary.
Coloured cotton items are more delicate, tolerating temperatures up to 60°C without risking fading. For less dirty items, consider washing at 40°C or even 30°C to save energy, benefiting both your garments and the environment.
Always consult the care label for the recommended washing temperature. Choosing a lower temperature than indicated can reduce environmental impact and help preserve your clothing’s quality over time, though it may affect cleaning performance. For deeper, hygienic cleaning, a 60°C wash with a general-purpose powder detergent or an appropriate laundry additive will provide optimal results.
Drying & Ironing Cotton Garments
Air drying is the preferred method for cotton.
Hang items outdoors if possible, ensuring they are gently stretched to maintain their shape.
Avoid exposing coloured cotton to direct sunlight to prevent colour fading.
If using a tumble dryer, always follow the care label instructions to protect your garments.
When ironing, cotton can withstand a hot setting, but take care to avoid excessive heat. Brief, careful passes over the fabric will prevent discolouration or fibre scorching.
Additional Tips for Cotton Care
The care symbols on cotton garments indicate the maximum treatment they can handle. Washing at lower temperatures and selecting longer, low-heat cycles helps retain the fabric’s quality and conserves energy.
Opt for an energy-efficient washing machine, such as those with an A+++ European energy rating, which uses less water and energy while offering long, gentle cycles. Spinning on the highest setting before tumble drying can further conserve energy by reducing moisture.
Detergent use should be balanced: too little may cause soil to redeposit, leading to greying or dull colours, while excess detergent may not yield cleaner laundry and can have an unnecessary environmental impact.
Thoughtful care will keep cotton garments soft, durable, and stylish for years. By following these steps, you’ll keep your SABA cotton pieces vibrant and comfortable, ready to be worn time and again.