Laundry
Organic cotton is grown without the use of chemicals and genetically-engineered seeds, therefore creating less greenhouse gas emissions and environmental pollution. It also requires less water in its production and, overall, helps to preserve the health of soil, nature, and people.
To maintain the shape and quality of your organic cotton garments, make sure to always care for them properly. Following the steps below will help you to do so, while also minimizing water and energy usage. As always, remember to read the individual care instructions inside your garment as specific requirements may differ.
See our laundry tips below...
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How to wash Cotton
You may machine-wash your organic cotton garments at a normal wash cycle setting and at a low temperature (max. 30°C), or cold. Choosing lower temperatures reduces the risk of shrinkage and colour fading while minimizing the associated cost and environmental impact of energy usage.
Use a gentle eco-friendly laundry detergent and avoid conventional softeners as well as bleach, as they can damage the fabric. To further protect your organic cotton garments, always wash them with similar colours and inside out.
How to dry Cotton
Avoid tumble-drying, as this can speed up the aging of your organic cotton garments, may cause shrinkage, and also uses a considerable amount of energy. Instead, hang dry your organic cotton garments immediately after removing them from the washing machine, and gently shake and re-shape them while doing so.
In case you really do need to dry your clothes as quickly as possible, you may tumble-dry them using the air cycle (no heat). But please remember that hang drying your laundry is the most environmentally-friendly option.
How to iron Cotton
Gently shaking out your garments while they are still damp is often enough to remove wrinkles naturally. However, if you do need to iron your organic cotton clothes, you may do so at a low to medium heat. A good option is always to start with the lowest heat setting and gradually adjust it as needed.
How to remove stains from Cotton
Generally, it’s best to always treat stains immediately by rinsing them with cold or warm water. Keep in mind that using cold instead of warm or hot water can reduce the chance of a stain setting, especially if it’s wine, pasta sauce, or blood. If water alone doesn’t remove the stain, apply a small amount of eco-friendly laundry detergent to a damp cloth and gently dab the stain. If a stain is severe or you are afraid of ruining the item, it’s a good idea to err on the side of caution and take it to a cleaner.
Eco-Friendly Laundry Choices
Start nurturing your cotton pieces by opting for eco-friendly laundry choices and choosing organic laundry products. By adopting eco-friendly laundry practices, you can minimize your impact on the environment and protect your cotton garments.
One of the easiest ways to do this is by using natural detergents. These detergents are made from plant-based ingredients and don’t contain harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances that can harm the environment and irritate your skin. They’re biodegradable and free from toxins, making them a safer choice for both you and the planet.
Additionally, natural detergents are gentle on your cotton pieces, preserving their softness and colour vibrancy. So, next time you do your laundry, make the switch to eco-friendly and organic laundry products for a greener, healthier fabric care routine.
By opting for organic laundry products, you can ensure that your clothes are washed with hypoallergenic formulas that are free from harsh chemicals and irritants. Here are five key reasons why choosing organic laundry products is beneficial for those with sensitive skin:
- Organic laundry products are made with natural ingredients that are less likely to cause skin irritation.
- They’re free from synthetic fragrances and dyes that can trigger allergies.
- Organic formulas are gentle on fabrics, prolonging the life of your garments.
- They’re biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
- Organic laundry products are often cruelty-free, ensuring that no animals were harmed in their production.
Preparing Your Cotton Garments for Wash
Before washing your cotton garments, gather all necessary supplies.
To ensure the best care for your cotton pieces, it’s important to prepare them properly before washing. Start by checking the garment’s care label for any
Specific Instructions
Then, inspect the garment for any stains or spots that require pre wash treatments. For natural stain removal, you can make a simple solution using equal parts water and white vinegar. Apply the mixture directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before gently rubbing it with a soft brush or cloth. For tougher stains, you can use a mild detergent or a stain remover specifically designed for cotton fabrics.
Once you have treated any stains, turn the garments inside out to protect the colour and texture.
Finally, separate your cotton garments by colour and wash them in cold water on a gentle cycle.
Gentle Washing Techniques for Cotton
To ensure the best care for your cotton pieces, it’s important to employ gentle washing techniques that preserve their natural beauty and longevity. Here are some tips to help you wash your cotton garments effectively:
- Use a mild detergent: Opt for a gentle detergent specifically formulated for delicate fabrics like cotton. Harsh detergents can strip away the natural oils and cause color fading.
- Choose a gentle wash cycle: Select a delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine to minimize agitation. This will prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your cotton garments.
- Wash in cool water: Cold water is best for washing cotton as it helps to preserve the fabric’s shape and color. Hot water can cause shrinkage and damage the fibers.
- Avoid fabric softeners: While fabric softeners may make your clothes feel softer, they can leave a residue on cotton fabric, reducing its absorbency and breathability. Instead, consider using vinegar as a natural fabric softener.
- Air dry or tumble dry on low: Cotton garments are best air-dried or tumble-dried on a low heat setting. High heat can cause shrinkage and damage the fabric.
Drying and Ironing Organic Cotton
To maintain the integrity of your cotton garments, it’s essential to properly dry and iron your organic cotton pieces.
When it comes to drying your organic cotton clothes, it’s important to choose the right technique. Avoid using high heat settings in the dryer, as this can cause shrinkage and damage the fabric. Instead, opt for air drying your garments by laying them flat on a clean towel or hanging them on a clothesline. This gentle drying technique will help preserve the softness and shape of your organic cotton pieces.
Taking care of your organic cotton clothes not only extends their lifespan but also helps to reduce your environmental impact.
Summary
Because organic cotton is not treated with harsh chemicals, it can be less resistant to heat. Therefore, always make sure to wash, dry, and iron your organic cotton clothes at low temperatures. And don’t forget that washing your clothes less is also a good idea - it helps preserve your garments’ quality, and has a positive impact on your wallet and the environment.
Feel free to contact us if you have any further questions about your beautiful sleepwear info@inspiredbynaturesa.com.au