Natural Washing Techniques by Fabric Type

Silk Washing Technique

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Fill a basin with cold water
2. Dissolve soap flakes completely before adding silk
3. Gently submerge the item and let it soak for 5-10 minutes
4. Very gently move the fabric through the water with your hands - never squeeze or wring
5. Drain soapy water and rinse with cold water until water runs clear
6. Final rinse with cold water and vinegar
7. Remove excess water by rolling in a clean, dry towel
8. Lay flat to dry, reshaping as needed

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Never use hot water or sudden temperature changes
• Don't rub or scrub silk fabric
• Avoid hanging silk items when wet - they will stretch
• Don't use bleach or harsh detergents
• Avoid direct sunlight when drying

Wool & Cashmere Washing Technique

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Prepare lukewarm water in a basin - maintain same temperature for all steps
2. Dissolve lanolin soap or wool soap flakes completely
3. Submerge the garment and gently press it down to soak for 10-15 minutes
4. Very gently squeeze the fabric through the water - move hands through, don't rub
5. Drain and rinse with lukewarm water of the same temperature
6. Continue rinsing until water runs clear - this may take 3-4 rinses
7. Press out water gently with flat hands - never wring
8. Roll in a clean towel to absorb excess moisture
9. Lay flat on a dry towel, reshape to original size, and let air dry

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Never change water temperature during washing - this causes felting
• Don't agitate or rub vigorously - this causes pilling and felting
• Avoid hanging wool items - they will stretch and lose shape
• Don't use fabric softener - it can damage natural fibers
• Never wring or twist wool garments

Bamboo Washing Technique

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Fill basin with cool to lukewarm water
2. Add plant-based cleanser and dissolve completely
3. Submerge bamboo item and allow to soak for 10 minutes
4. Gently move fabric through water, paying attention to seams and edges
5. Rinse thoroughly with cool water until soap is removed
6. Gently press out excess water - avoid wringing
7. Lay flat or hang on padded hanger to dry
8. Iron on low heat if needed while slightly damp

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Don't use hot water - can cause shrinkage
• Avoid harsh detergents that can damage the fiber structure
• Don't wring bamboo fabric - it can stretch permanently
• Avoid high heat when drying or ironing

Lace Washing Technique

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Place lace item in a mesh laundry bag to protect it
2. Fill basin with cold water
3. Add very small amount of mild soap flakes or floral water
4. Submerge mesh bag and let soak for 15-20 minutes - no agitation needed
5. Gently lift bag and drain water
6. Rinse by submerging bag in fresh cold water - repeat until water is clear
7. Remove from bag very carefully
8. Lay flat on clean white towel, reshape pattern while wet
9. Cover with another towel and press gently to remove excess water
10. Leave flat to dry completely, reshape as needed

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Never agitate lace - the openwork structure is extremely fragile
• Don't wring, twist, or squeeze lace fabric
• Avoid hanging lace items - they will stretch and distort
• Never use bleach or harsh chemicals
• Don't expose to direct sunlight or heat sources
• Avoid rubbing or scrubbing - this causes snags and tears