When it comes to laundry, most of us tend to throw everything into the washing machine without giving it much thought. But is this really the best way to treat our clothes?

The truth is, washing clothes the wrong way can damage fabrics and shorten their lifespan. Let's dive into the best practices for washing different types of fabrics to make sure we're caring for our clothes the right way.

Cotton Clothes

Cotton is one of the most commonly used fabrics, and it's pretty easy to wash. Cotton fabrics are resistant to alkaline solutions, and they tolerate high temperatures well, making them ideal for regular laundry detergents. Before washing, it's a good idea to soak cotton clothes in water for a few minutes—just don't soak them for too long to avoid color damage.

When washing cotton, the best water temperature is between 40-50°C. For rinsing, use a "small amount, multiple rinses" method. Instead of using large amounts of water, rinse several times to remove all detergent. After each rinse, wring out the clothes before going for a second rinse to ensure thorough cleaning. Always dry cotton clothes in a well-ventilated area to avoid fading caused by sunlight.

Down Jackets

Down jackets are a winter essential, but they require special care. Typically made of nylon, down jackets are durable but should not be washed too often as excessive washing can reduce their insulation properties. You can lightly clean areas like the collar, cuffs, and front with a clean towel dipped in gasoline to remove oils and stains. Once cleaned, use a dry towel to wipe off the gasoline, allowing it to evaporate completely before wearing.

For a deeper clean, you can wash your down jacket once at the end of the winter season, or more frequently if you live in a region with long winters. To wash, soak the jacket in cold water for about 20 minutes, add a neutral detergent, and gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush. Never wash your down jacket in a washing machine as this could cause it to lose its form and damage the machine.

Wool Coats

Wool coats are known for their softness and warmth, but they require a delicate touch. Wool is a protein fiber, so it's naturally elastic and wrinkle-resistant. However, it is also very sensitive to water. Wool coats should never be washed in water because this can cause them to shed fibers, shrink, or lose their shape. Instead, dry cleaning is recommended to preserve the fabric's quality.

Denim

Denim is durable, but it's known for its tendency to fade. The first time you wash denim clothes, try washing them separately in salt water to remove excess dye. Always use cold water when washing denim to prevent shrinking, and avoid using too much detergent, especially for light-colored denim. If there are no stains or dirt, it's often best to wash denim with water alone to prevent the fabric from losing its color.

Cashmere Sweaters

Cashmere is delicate and requires careful handling to avoid shrinking and losing its softness. When washing cashmere, the water temperature should not exceed 30°C, and you should use a mild detergent or special wool detergent. After washing, avoid wringing or rubbing the fabric to prevent damage. To keep the sweater in top condition, add a small amount of vinegar during the final rinse to help maintain its elasticity and shine.

If your cashmere sweater gets a spill, quickly blot it with tissue or a sponge to absorb the liquid. Never twist or rub the fabric as it can damage the fibers. And always avoid machine drying or wringing the sweater, as this can cause it to lose its shape and softness.

Underwear

Underwear is a vital part of our daily wear, and it requires special attention to maintain hygiene. When washing underwear, always separate it from outerwear, as outer garments are exposed to more dust and bacteria. For best results, hand wash underwear in water that is no warmer than 40°C using soap or a gentle detergent.

Avoid using hot water when washing underwear, as it can cause protein-based stains (like sweat) to bond with the fabric, creating unsightly yellow stains. For hygiene and longevity, hand wash your bras, and air dry them to keep their shape intact.

Silk Clothes

Silk is known for its luxurious feel but is also sensitive to washing. Silk clothing should only be hand-washed in cool water (below 30°C), and never soaked for long periods. Silk is sensitive to alkaline solutions, so always avoid using soap or detergents with high alkaline content. The best option is to use a detergent designed specifically for silk.

Always wash silk gently by hand, and never toss it into the washing machine. After washing, gently press the water out of the fabric—never wring it. Hang it to dry in a shaded area to avoid any damage from sunlight.

Leather and Fur

Leather and fur require professional care, as water can damage the fibers and cause irreversible aging. For leather, water can remove away oils and shorten its lifespan, so avoid wetting it. If you have a leather or fur jacket, take it to a professional cleaner that specializes in leather goods. They will be able to treat the material properly and keep it looking new.

By taking the time to learn about the proper way to care for each type of fabric, we can ensure our clothes last longer and remain in excellent condition. Different materials need different treatments, and by following the right steps, we're doing our clothes (and ourselves) a huge favor. So, the next time we do laundry, let's keep these tips in mind and make sure our clothes get the care they deserve!