Garment Care
We recommend that you follow the care labels on the garments, but here are some further suggestions on how to look after your clothes and the environment.
WASH
- Don't leave dirty laundry lying around for too long.
- Turn clothes inside out, and close any buttons, clasps and zips.
- Care labels show the maximum treatment that can be used on a garment. Most detergents will clean effectively at lower temperatures, which conserves energy.
- Look for detergents that are plant-based and free of artificial fragrance, optical brighteners, chlorine, and phosphates.
- Fabric conditioners can help to avoid creases in hard water areas. Make sure they are also free of the chemicals listed above.
DRY
- Hang dry if possible, and as soon as possible after the cycle is finished to avoid creasing.
- Reshape when damp to avoid non-essential ironing.
DRY CLEAN
- Look for "green" dry cleaners who use solvents which are less harmful to the environment - often CO2 or silicon.
- Avoid tetrachloroethylene, also known as perchloroethylene (PERC).
DELICATE HANDWASH
Where handwashing is advised, follow this guide for a gentle wash. Often handswashing can be used instead of dry cleaning on sensitive fabrics. Do so at your own risk, but if you do decide to, then make sure it's done carefully.
- Fill a basin with a tablespoon or so of delicate detergent and cold water.
- Gently swirl the garment and leave it to soak for 10 minutes.
- Drain and refill the sink, gently swirl and repeat.
- Drain the basin.
- Press the garment against the side of the basin to remove excess water - do not wring the garment out.
- Place on a towel and roll to help absorb remaining water.
- Reshape and dry flat on a rack or towel to air dry.