Care for your clothes

Tips for treating and better understanding your garments…

Washing
Use neutral detergents for delicate fabrics.In the first washes, the water can become coloured, so the garment should be washed on its own. Always use cold water and do not leave to soak. Let the soap or detergent dissolve completely before introducing the garment. Do not rub the fabric, just squeeze it gently. Always dry-clean garments with linings and interlinings.

Drying
Fold heavy items so that they do not become misshapen. Do not expose the clothes directly to sunlight or strong wind, especially if they are coloured. If an indoor clothesline is used to dry them, ensure that there are currents of air. Knitwear should be wrapped in a towel and allowed to dry on a flat surface, not hung up to dry and not exposed to the sun or heat. Garments prone to going out of shape should be stretched when drying so they retain their shape. Spin drying and drying directly in the sun tends to make garments become matted.

Bleaching
Before using bleach, carefully read the symbols on the label. Use only in cold water and for one hour maximum. Do not use bleach in iron, copper or brass vessels. Whiteners are preferable to bleach, as bleach weakens the fibres of the garment. Never experiment on stubborn stains, leave them to professionals.

Natural fabrics
Wool
It will shrink if washed at too high a temperature and become misshapen if it is hung up to dry.
Cotton
It shrinks if washed at too high a temperature, can easily withstand ironing and, if it is coloured, for the first time should be washed separately.

Synthetic fabrics
Polyester, Nylon and Lycra
Highly sensitive to heat, they must be washed in warm water and ironed at low temperatures without steam.