SPECIAL CARE FOR COOL THREADS

We can support eco-friendly and sustainable practices through purchasing organic clothing. Our clothing is not only better for us as users but it’s better for the earth. Maybe you have ordered a piece or three (he he) of organic clothes, you might be wondering how can I take care of them? You’ve gone through the effort and to invest in natural and safe clothes… you certainly don’t want to ruin them by laundering with the wrong products and procedures!

How do I wash organic clothes?

When washing your organic clothes, the safest, eco-friendly route is always hand-washing clothes in cold water with a gentle detergent after all, they are anti-bacterial. Most of us will not do this and that is ok. So, if you want to use your washing machine, first check the label and just take a few precautions before going for it. Please use NON-ENYME (non-biological) laundry detergent or powder. Please dilute the detergent with water before washing your organic cotton and natural dyed clothing.

Is your washing machine clean?

If you have been using harsh detergents in your washing machine, run it while it’s empty to get rid of any residue and adding a cup of vinegar can help give it a total clean! Any trace of harsh detergents can damage your clothes! When you feel like you’ve got a clean machine, wash your organic clothes on the gentle cycle with cold water and eco-gentle detergent. You can add a 1/4 cup of vinegar to the wash, which will help set the colours. Even when using that safety measure, always wash lights, white and darks separately Do you remember what your mum told you? Well, this time it is true!! Skip the fabric softeners, and stay away from bleach- natural clothes are a no no with bleach! All of the chemicals that are in standard laundry products are not only good for water and animals- but not good for organic clothes either! It can ruin the natural dyes in your clothing. Please wash printed the garment inside out.

Air drying or throw them in the dryer?

Have you successfully washed your clothes, be careful! Air-dry when you can. Your clothes line is your new best friend. High heat will likely cause shrinkage and fading in the washing machine and dryer.

Stains and hard to get out colours

As for stains, you’ll definitely want to treat those ASAP, preferably right after the stain appears. Place a colorfast cloth behind the fabric to absorb the stain, and using ice-cold water, gently pat the spot. If the stain needs some extra coaxing, rub it directly with an ice cube, while still holding the cloth behind the garment. There are several natural remedies for tougher stains- baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice- but it’s hard to tell how fabric is going to react to these items, especially when there is natural dye involved. You might want to take your clothes to a reputable, eco-friendly professional cleaner if you have any doubts.

Organic clothes are a great investment, and with a little TLC, they’ll last a long time. By simply following label instructions and focusing on gentle laundering techniques, those precious garments will stay just as soft and cozy as the day you bought them. So, don’t be intimidated by these unique clothes…just be kind to them, and they’ll be kind to you!