How to Care for Cotton
Cotton is one of the most versatile and widely used natural fibers, prized for its breathability and comfort. It holds up well to frequent washing but can shrink if exposed to high heat. With proper care, cotton garments will maintain their shape, color, and softness for years.
🌡️ Wash Temperature
Most cotton items do well in warm water around 40°C (104°F). Use cold water for bright or dark colors to prevent fading, and reserve hot water only for heavily soiled white cotton items.
☀️ Drying
Tumble dry cotton on a medium heat setting, removing items promptly to reduce wrinkles. For garments prone to shrinking, air drying on a flat surface or clothesline is the safest option.
🔥 Ironing
Cotton can withstand high iron temperatures, typically around 200°C (400°F). Iron while the fabric is still slightly damp or use a steam setting for the best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✗Using hot water on colored cotton, which causes fading
- ✗Over-drying in the tumble dryer, leading to shrinkage
- ✗Skipping fabric softener, which helps maintain softness
- ✗Ignoring care labels that specify cold wash only