Drape & Stitch Laundry Care
Our laundry care labels are designed to keep things simple and easy to understand.
Machine wash in cold water (maximum 30°C), do not bleach, tumble dry on low heat, and iron on low heat (maximum 110°C).
Dry clean only — recommended for heavy-duty coats, wool garments, and structured suiting jackets
Proper laundry care is essential for maintaining the look, feel, and durability of your fabrics. Whether you’re washing sturdy cotton, delicate silk, or luxurious wool, the right techniques help prevent shrinkage, fading, and fiber damage. Here’s a complete guide to washing, drying, and storing your garments for long-lasting freshness.
1. Washing Best Practices
- Sort fabrics by type and color – Washing delicate fabrics with rougher ones can cause damage, and mixing colors can lead to bleeding. Keep whites, darks, and bright colors separate.
- Choose the right water temperature – Cold water is best for delicate fabrics and bright colors, while warm water works well for everyday cotton and linen. Avoid hot water unless necessary, as it can shrink fibers.
- Use mild, fabric-appropriate detergents – Harsh detergents can weaken fibers over time. Use pH-neutral or fabric-specific detergents, especially for wool, silk, and blends.
- Avoid overloading the washing machine – Giving garments space to move freely prevents excess friction, which can cause pilling, wrinkles, and wear.
- Hand wash when necessary – Some fabrics, like lace, chiffon, or cashmere, require extra care. If in doubt, hand wash with cold water and a gentle detergent.
2. Drying & Ironing Techniques
- Air drying is the safest method – Heat from dryers can shrink and weaken fabrics. Hanging garments or laying them flat preserves their shape and structure.
- Tumble dry with care – If using a dryer, choose a low heat setting and remove clothes while slightly damp to minimize wrinkles and shrinkage.
- Lay knits and wool flat to dry – Hanging heavy fabrics like wool can cause them to stretch out of shape. Instead, reshape and lay them on a clean towel.
- Avoid direct sunlight when drying – Prolonged sun exposure can fade colors and weaken delicate fibers. Dry clothes in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
- Steam or iron carefully – Use low to medium heat and steam for delicate fabrics. Always iron inside out for materials like silk and wool to prevent shine and scorching.
3. Storage & Fabric Maintenance
- Fold delicate fabrics instead of hanging – Heavy knits, wool, and cashmere can lose shape if hung. Fold them neatly and store in breathable containers.
- Use padded hangers for structured garments – Silk dresses, blouses, and jackets benefit from padded or wooden hangers that prevent creases and stretching.
- Keep garments in breathable fabric bags – Plastic garment bags trap moisture, leading to mildew. Use cotton or linen storage bags for better airflow.
- Protect fabrics from pests – Natural fibers like wool and silk can attract moths. Store them with cedar blocks or lavender sachets as a natural repellent.
- Rotate seasonal garments – When storing winter clothing, ensure they are clean before packing them away. Dirt and body oils attract pests and cause fabric deterioration.
By following these laundry care guidelines, you can keep your fabrics looking fresh, feeling soft, and lasting longer. Taking the time to wash, dry, and store your clothes properly will help preserve their beauty and functionality for years to come.