Summer Cotton Care - 100% pure and Cotton Blends

Cotton has long been considered one of the most versatile and durable fabrics on the market. It’s also one of the most comfy, but it doesn’t come without it’s own set of flaws. It requires some love – after all, it is a natural fibre, and natural fibres always have their care quirks.

With summer underway and cotton tees in full wardrobe rotation, here are some tips for caring for both pure cotton and cotton blends.

 

100% pure cotton

This natural material is more durable than we think, even if pure cotton garments do tend to stretch. Caring for them is pretty simple: just follow the golden rule: absolutely no heat. Both hot water and hot heat in the dryer will cause the cotton fibres to shrink, resulting not only in a potential crop top but also crooked seams. For the wash cycle, cold water is your best option. A cold wash will help fibres keep their shape and colors looking fresh, but be sure to select a delicate wash cycle - too vigorous a wash can damage the fabric as well as the shape of your garment. When it comes to the dryer, a delicate tumble dry at low temperatures with our fabric-friendly wool Dryer Dots is a great option, however, we think that air-drying 100% cotton clothing is your best bet. And, when air-drying, you can reshape the garment if required by laying it flat on a towel and gently pulling the fabric back into shape.

 

Summer cotton blends

Unlike pure cotton, cotton-blends are much easier to care for. Blends, such as cotton-polyester, should be washed in cold or warm water, and they can go in the dryer at medium heat. Because the cotton has been woven with a synthetic/man-made material, cotton-blends are much less likely to become misshapen in the wash, but don’t forget that you can still shrink them. Be sure to read the care label before the first wash. If the label advises to use cold water, chances are it was not pre-shrunk before the garment was sewn, therefore washing and drying in warm water may shrink the fabric.

 

Worthwhile mentions

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again - the key to maintaining your wardrobe always starts with the care label. They don’t always have to be followed to a T, but they’re a good reference of how to wash the garment. One other thing- don’t mix colors! Unless, of course, you love tie-dye (no judgement—the comeback might be right around the corner).

 

PS: Is pilling a thing on your favourite tee? Gleen with a Fuzz Remover and Edge 2 to revive it!