Fabric Care and Maintenance

Fabrics are a part of our lives. We use fabrics for everyday use. The best maintenance tips to be followed are provided by the manufacturing label. As fabrics have different properties, types and make, it makes it harder to clean it. We have to follow specific instructions for each type of fabric for us to be able to clean it just as well. The Peterson Group guides through most common cleaning methods which can help you assess the maintenance you would need for your fabric.

Through Laundromats

1. Dry Cleaning

This method is mostly used for cotton fabrics. By definition, it does not use any running water and is mostly pressed through ironing. The combination of solvent and heat on fabrics may cause wear and tear as experts strongly advise on the use of dry cleaning. This has been however been dominated by wet cleaning in many developing cities such as Jakarta, Indonesia and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

2. Pressing after cleaning

This method of cleaning takes a complicated approach. You have to distinguish the different types of fabrics to know what pressure of pressing is to be used. Experts suggest leaving it to the professionals. Most Laundromats undergo proper training to properly press fabrics and know the differences between pressing linen, wool and silk directly. According to reviews, Linen can withstand higher heat when ironed, and should be pressed when damp. Silk requires a lower temperature iron and should be steam ironed, preferably with a press cloth. Wool should be pressed with steam and a moderate temperature.

3. Packaging

Even packaging needs a special attention to. A fabric can be washed and pressed well but when it gets cramped into a small bag, the quality can come to waste. Jamming too many finished and bagged garments into the dry cleaners rack can also wrinkle finished garments.

At Home

1. Detergents

Detergents are chemical compounds that contain wetting agents and emulsifiers. Technically detergents are called “Synthetic Detergents” as they are not made from fats and lye from which soap is made.

2. Chlorine Bleaches

This type of cleaning material can be used on cotton, polyester, and other man made fabrics. Some linen may be able to stand bleaches. Warnings on the manufacturing label will tell you otherwise.

3. Hand washing detergent

This cleaning material can be used in home fine fabrics. These products are also effective when using cold water. However, not all hand washing detergent are mild although it can be more expensive.