Cleaning your fabric might seem like a straightforward process. How hard can it be, right? But did you know that each type of fabric requires a different type of approach when it comes to caring for it. Your ability to know the right way to care for each fabric type will ensure that they will last long and that you can maintain the fabric’s quality.

Cotton

As the most common type of fabric used at home or in clothing, it is important that you know how to care for cotton. It is a universal favorite because cotton is comfortable and breathable. This type of natural fiber fabric is also used in a variety of beddings, pillow cases, and some upholstery.

The only downside to cotton is that it will shrink (unless you choose a cotton fabric that is preshrunk). Always check the label when you buy cotton bedding, upholstery, or drapery. The label will come with a suggestion on how to wash and care for the fabric. If you buy preshrunk cotton fabric, you can wash it in hot, warm, or cold water. The color of the fabric and the specific care recommendations will dictate the correct method of care.

As much as you need to pay close attention to the method of washing, the drying process should be taken into account, too. Over-drying cotton fabric can cause it to shrink, too. Make sure you lower the heat when drying cotton fabric.

Linen

Linen is another popular fabric that requires specialized cleaning instructions. It is a natural fabric derived from flax plant. Linen is used in a variety of home decorating purposes, such as drapery and accessories (like throw pillow covers and table runners). Dry cleaning is a good option for linen as it can get wrinkled easily. But make sure to check the care label on the specific linen product you’ve invested in to make sure that it is appropriate to be dry cleaned.

When you wash linen, it absorbs a lot of water (as compared to other types of fiber). When ironing linen, it is important to do from the inside out.

Silk

Silk is one of the most delicate fabrics you could own. It is popularly used as drapery, but can also be used for bedding or pillow cover. This fabric is made with natural fiber and is also known as the oldest clothing material in the world. Some of the characteristics of silk include strong, lustrous, and supple.

Silk is a washable fabric but there are certain patterns that will pucker or tighten after being washed. The best step towards protecting silk fabric is to check the label for care instruction. When it states “dry clean only”, it is not suitable for washing. Use a cleaning formula that is suited for hand washing to ensure gentle cleaning. Avoid putting silk in the dryer, too. You can, however, press the silk fabric with warm iron.

Wool

The soft, warm fiber that comprise wool makes it a great choice for fabric for the home during winter. It acts as a natural insulation and is also very comfortable. Wool is a naturally washable fabric. But many of the wool fabric you will find in the market these days incorporate other construction methods, it is important to be aware of the proper care methods. The safest bet is to wash wool in lukewarm water. Avoid rinsing with cold water as it can cause your wool fabric to shrink.