Fabric Care Guide: Cotton, Silk, Wool, Linen and Polyester

The fabric decides the wash, not the price tag. Once you know how each common fabric behaves, most laundry decisions become easy.

Cotton

The everyday workhorse. It tolerates warm water and regular washing, but can shrink the first few times, especially in hot water or a hot dryer. Wash dark cottons inside out so the colour lasts. Iron while slightly damp.

Linen

Strong, cool and naturally crinkly. It softens with every wash. Use cool to warm water and avoid wringing hard. Linen blazers and structured linen suits keep their shape better when dry cleaned.

Silk

Silk is a protein fibre. It can lose colour, water-spot or lose its sheen if washed roughly. Most silk sarees, scarves and blouses are safer dry cleaned. Never use chlorine bleach, and do not leave silk in direct sun.

Wool and woollen blends

Wool shrinks and felts with heat and agitation. Sweaters, shawls and coats are best dry cleaned, or hand washed in cool water with a wool-safe detergent if the label permits. Dry flat, never hang a wet sweater.

Polyester, nylon and synthetics

Easy to care for and quick to dry, but they hold body odour. Wash at moderate temperature and avoid high iron heat, which can melt or shine the fabric.

Rayon, viscose and georgette

These soft, flowing fabrics can shrink or lose shape when wet. Many are labelled dry clean or gentle hand wash. If the garment is expensive or fitted, dry cleaning is the safer route.

Denim

Wash jeans less often, inside out, in cool water to slow fading. Air dry away from direct sun. See our guide to washing jeans without fading.

When the label and the fabric disagree

Trust the label first. It reflects trims, linings and dyes, not just the main fibre. Our care label guide explains the symbols.

Frequently asked questions

Which fabrics should always be dry cleaned?

Structured items such as blazers and suits, silk, wool coats, and anything beaded, lined or labelled dry clean only are safest dry cleaned.

Why do cotton clothes shrink?

Heat and agitation relax the fibres, which then pull tighter as they dry. Cool water and air drying reduce shrinkage.

Can I wash silk at home?

Only if the label allows it. Even then, use cool water, a mild detergent and no wringing. Most silk sarees are safer dry cleaned.