How to Wash Natural Fibre Fabrics

At first glance, washing natural fibre fabrics may seem like a daunting task. However, with a few simple steps and the right tools, you can easily care for your favourite natural fibre garments and keep them looking great for years to come.

Updated March 22, 2023

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Clothing Care

To start, it's important to choose the right detergent for your fabric type. Soaps and detergents designed specifically for natural fibres, like cotton and wool, are a must. These products often contain ingredients that are gentler on your fabrics and help to keep them looking their best.

We’ve had excellent results with the Skip range of detergents – all kind to the natural fibres you love to wear.

Here’s a quick step-by-step on how to best wash natural fabrics.

Fill your sink or a large bowl with lukewarm water
Put in 3 drops of skip washing liquid or anti-ageing liquid
Swirl the soap around in the water
Place the natural fibre clothing in the large bowl and let it soak
Rinse thoroughly with warm water

What Are Natural Fibre Fabrics?

Natural fibre fabrics are made from materials, such as cotton, wool, and silk. These fabrics are breathable and comfortable, making them a popular choice for clothing, bedding, and other home textiles. They are also commonly used in high-end fashion designs due to their luxurious appearance and feel.

Whether you're looking for a comfortable t-shirt or a luxurious cashmere sweater, natural fibre fabrics are an excellent choice. They offer the perfect combination of softness, comfort, and style, making them the ideal choice for anyone looking to add a touch of luxury to their wardrobe.

How to Care for Different Natural Materials in Clothing

Looking to add some natural materials to your wardrobe, but not sure how to care for them? Well look no further – in this guide, we'll explore the different ways you can maintain and care for common natural materials used in clothing, such as cotton, wool, and silk.

So, in taking care of these garments, whether you're dealing with fuzziness or stains, snags, or wrinkles, there are a variety of methods you can use to keep your natural materials looking their best. Some easy tips include washing in cold water, using gentle detergent, and lying flat to dry. Additionally, many natural materials can benefit from special care products like fabric softener or stain remover – just be sure to read the labels and follow any specific instructions.

For those with sensitive skin, it's also important to be mindful of which materials may cause irritation or allergic reactions. For example, some people may have a reaction to wool due to the lanolin content, while others may find that their skin is irritated by the use of harsh detergents in their regular laundry.

Overall, taking care of your natural materials doesn't have to be a complicated process – with the right knowledge and some basic techniques, you can keep your clothing looking great.

Why We Love Clothing Made of Natural Fibres

When it comes to clothing, many of us prefer materials that are made from natural fibres like cotton, wool, and silk. Why do we love natural fibres so much?

Breathability

One reason is that they are softer and more comfortable than synthetic materials like polyester and nylon. They feel luxurious against the skin and provide a sense of extravagance that is hard to find with synthetic fabrics. Additionally, natural fibres are breathable and allow us to stay cool all day.

Environmentally sustainable

Another reason why we love clothing made of natural fibres is that they are better for the environment. These materials are renewable and biodegradable, which means that they don't pollute the environment and are more sustainable in the long run. Plus, they tend to have a lower carbon footprint than synthetic materials, which means that they use less energy and resources to create.

Durability

In addition to being softer, more comfortable, and better for the environment, natural fibres also tend to be more durable. This means that you can wear your favourite natural fibre clothing for years to come without having to worry about it falling apart. Whether you're looking for something comfortable and casual or a sleek, stylish outfit for a special occasion, choosing clothing made of natural fibres is definitely the way to go.

Why You Should Consider Hand-Washing Natural Fibre Clothing For Less Damage

Hand washing your natural fibre clothing is a great way to protect it from the wear and tear that can damage it over time. Here are some of the key reasons why you should consider hand washing your natural fibre clothing for less damage:

First, natural fibres like cotton, wool, and silk are softer and more delicate than synthetic fibres, making them more prone to damage from washing.

Second, hand washing allows you to control the amount of detergent used, helping to prevent your clothing from becoming overly soiled or damaged.

Finally, by hand washing your natural fibre clothing regularly, you can ensure that it stays looking its best for longer. Whether you're concerned about fading, pilling, or wear and tear, regular hand washing can help to keep your clothing looking great for years to come.

So, if you're looking for a simple way to protect your natural fibre clothing from damage, use the hand washing method, along with the Skip range of washing powders and detergents. Your clothes will thank you!

For more sustainable fashion and clothing tips and tricks, visit Cleanipedia today.

Natural Fibre Clothing – Frequently Asked Questions

What natural fibre fabrics cannot be washed?

Natural fibre fabrics such as cotton, silk, and wool are generally not suited for washing, as they can easily become warped, stretched out, or damaged in the wash. This is due to the delicate nature of these fabrics and their tendency to absorb moisture easily. That said, there are some natural fibre fabrics that may be washed under certain conditions. For example, linen is a durable fabric that can withstand washing and drying cycles without becoming damaged or shrunken. Likewise, cashmere and other high-end natural fibres can also typically be washed with care. So, if you're looking to keep your favourite natural fibre garments looking their best, it's always best to hand wash them or take them to a professional dry cleaner instead.

Why is it necessary to wash the fibres thoroughly?

The purpose of washing the fibres thoroughly is to remove any impurities or contaminants that may be present in the fibres. This ensures that the fibres are clean and pure and can be used safely in a variety of applications, such as clothing, textile manufacturing, and household products. Without proper washing, the fibres could become contaminated with bacteria or other harmful substances, which could cause unwanted reactions and health issues for those who come into contact with them. Washing also helps to improve their strength and durability, allowing them to withstand wear and tear over time.

Can natural fibre fabrics be machine washed?

The short answer to this question is a tentative yes – natural fibre fabrics can be machine washed. However, there are a few things that you should keep in mind in order to ensure that your fabric stays safe and lasts for years to come. At the most basic level, it's important to choose a mild, gentle laundry detergent when washing your natural fibre fabrics. Avoid harsh or strong detergents, as these can cause the fibres to break down over time and may even damage the colour of your fabric. You should also take care when drying your fabrics, as high heat from the dryer can also cause damage and shrinkage. Instead, opt for lower temperatures or air drying whenever possible. And finally, don't forget about proper cleaning and care – this includes spot cleaning, ironing, and storing your fabrics in a cool, dry place to prevent damage or mildew growth.

How do you protect natural fibre clothes in a washing machine?

Protecting natural fibre clothes in a washing machine can be a bit of a challenge, as they are more prone to stretching and shrinking than other types of fabrics. To keep your natural fibre clothes looking their best, here are some tips: Firstly, it is important to use the right type of detergent for your natural fibre garments. Many conventional laundry detergents contain harsh chemicals that can damage the fibres and cause discoloration or fading over time. Opt for the Skip range of detergents – all are kind to natural fabrics. You should also avoid using high temperatures when washing your natural fibre clothing. Hot water can cause these fabrics to shrink, stretch, or even break down over time. Instead, opt for a cooler temperature setting and use cold water whenever possible. In addition to washing your natural fibre clothes on a gentle cycle, it is also important to properly load the washing machine so that they don't get tangled up with other items in the wash. Try using laundry bag or delicate clothing net when washing your natural fibre garments, as this will help keep them separated from other items in the wash while also protecting them from snagging or getting caught on corners or hooks inside the machine. Finally, it is crucial to follow any specific care instructions that might be included on your natural fibre garments. Whether you are washing silk blouses, wool sweaters, or cotton tops, always be sure to carefully read the label and follow any special washing instructions that you might find there.

What happens if you wash natural clothing materials frequently?

If you wash natural clothing materials frequently, they can become stretched out or damaged over time. This is because natural fabrics, such as cotton and wool, are more prone to shrinking and stretching than synthetic materials like polyester or nylon. So, if you want your clothing to last, it's best to stick to washing them on a less frequent basis and taking extra care when doing so.

Originally published January 27, 2023