Since you’ve mastered the methods of material care for different material types from our previous two posts (4 Tips on Material Care (part 1) , 4 Tips on Material Care (Part 2) ) we’d like to give you some additional tips about handling polyester, spandex and cashmere. Every material needs a little bit of a research before putting it into the washing machine with dry cleaning or any other treatment.
So,
1.What is special about polyester?
This synthetic fabric is typically inexpensive and can be woven into many weights and textures. Polyester fibers are used frequently in the fashion and sports spheres. Usage of polyester revolutionized easy-care clothes and eliminated the need for ironing. Some garments, like tops and dresses, need to be washed after every wear. Polyester is heat sensitive, which means high temperatures can cause it to shrink, deform and even melt. You should never select high-heat settings when using the dryer or the iron. In case of washing polyester, select a heavy-duty detergent, which will be able to break apart stains and heavy soil. An oil stain on polyester is challenging to break. However, try to remove it with a stain remover applied as soon as possible.
2.How to take care of spandex?
Spandex is a synthetic fiber used to make stretchable sportswear and other types of clothing. It is essential to wash spandex properly for it to retain its elastic qualities. Try to hand wash spandex to prevent excessive stretching and do not use washing detergent containing chlorine bleach. The latter may seriously harm the material. If the spandex is stained, apply a small amount of a liquid detergent to the stain as soon as possible and gently rub it in, but do not scrub it.
3.And cashmere?
Cashmere is a wool type made from cashmere and pashmina goats. It is a little bit challenging to wash clothes made from this material, but, of course it is never impossible to do it at home. In order to have the best results you should place your sweater in a mesh washing bag before putting it into the washing machine. The sweater or any other clothing item made of cashmere should stay far away from the dryer, which is notorious for shrinking knits. After the water is out lay the sweater on a clean towel and put it in its natural shape. In case of a stain treat it like you treat spandex.
