In the summer, I love to wear lightweight fabrics like linen and silk. And with two small kids and one huge dog who often get my clothes messy, I’ve committed to learn more and more about caring for my clothes properly to keep them looking as good as possible for as long as possible (aka less unnecessary shopping and waste!).
Here’s how I care for my favorite linen, silk and “dry clean” items I wear all summer long. You can shop these eco-friendly, plant-based solutions from The Laundress for 25% off during their sale + get a free bottle of No. 723 Detergent with purchase when you do. Use code PARTY25 at checkout!
PREP
Treat any stains before laundering. Stain Solution is ideal for protein and tannin stains (wine, coffee, ink, underarm stains). The Wash & Stain Bar is great for grease, oil, makeup, and ring around the collar stains.
LAUNDER
Decide whether to hand wash or use the machine. For items that can go into the machine, I always use a mesh bag. For hand wash items, I like to use a small basin. The detergent will depend on the fabric and the cleaning goals. The new limited edition No. 723 Detergent as well as the Signature Detergent are ideal for everyday laundry and are great for linen. Delicate Wash is ideal for “dry clean” items, silk, synthetics, spandex, polyester, nylon, rayon, acetate, and blends. Home care is so much better for your garments and the environment and much easier than you might think.
If I’m unsure of the right way to care for a garment, I use this A-Z fabric guide.
DRY + FINISH
For delicate and linen items, it’s best to lay flat to dry. Linen can handle the dryer but will last longer if air dried. Wrinkle removal will depend on the fabric (I usually just embrace the wrinkles, but if I want them gone, I like to steam vs. iron for most clothes). In between washes, I use Fabric Fresh and Delicate Spray to keep clothes fresh and reduce how often I need to do a full wash.
Thank you, The Laundress, for sponsoring this post!
Shop the Post
Read the Comments +