PLAINANDSIMPLE - How to Care for Sustainable Fabrics: Tips for Longevity and Durability

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the effects of fast fashion on both people and the planet, more consumers are seeking out eco-friendly alternatives. One of the key pillars of sustainable fashion is the choice of fabrics, from organic cotton and hemp to recycled polyester and Tencel.

However, once you've made the switch to these eco-conscious fabrics, the next challenge is ensuring their longevity. Sustainable fabrics require proper care to maintain their durability and extend their lifespan, which ultimately reduces waste and the need for constant replacements.

In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips for caring for sustainable fabrics so that your garments remain beautiful and functional for as long as possible. Let’s dive into how you can ensure the longevity of your eco-friendly wardrobe!

1. Know Your Fabrics

The first step in caring for sustainable fabrics is understanding what they are made from. Different materials require different care methods, so it’s important to read care labels and do some research on the fabric types you’re working with. Some of the most common sustainable fabrics include:

• Organic Cotton: Grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilisers, organic cotton is breathable and soft, but can be prone to shrinking or fading if not cared for properly.

• Linen: Made from the flax plant, linen is durable, naturally antimicrobial, and becomes softer with each wash. It’s breathable, but it can wrinkle easily and requires gentle washing to maintain its integrity.

• Hemp: Hemp is one of the most eco-friendly fibres, requiring minimal water and pesticides to grow. It’s strong and durable but can become stiff with wear if not washed properly.

• Tencel (Lyocell): A biodegradable fabric made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, Tencel is smooth, breathable, and resistant to wrinkles. It is relatively low-maintenance, but it should be washed with care to maintain its softness.

• Recycled Polyester: Made from recycled plastic bottles or fabrics, this fabric offers durability and moisture-wicking properties. While it’s a great sustainable option, it still requires special care to prevent microplastics from shedding into the water during washing.

2. Gentle Washing is Key

One of the biggest factors in maintaining the longevity of your sustainable fabrics is how you wash them. While it may be tempting to throw your clothes into the wash on a hot cycle with a regular detergent, doing so can damage fibres, leading to faster wear and tear. Here are a few tips to ensure your sustainable fabrics stay in top condition:

• Use Cold Water: Washing in cold water helps to preserve the colour, texture, and shape of your garments. It also saves energy, which is better for both the environment and your clothing.

• Choose a Gentle Detergent: Look for biodegradable, eco-friendly detergents that are free of harsh chemicals. These detergents are gentler on fabrics and the environment, reducing the amount of toxic runoff entering waterways.

• Wash Less Often: Over-washing can break down fabrics and cause unnecessary wear. Unless your clothes are visibly dirty or soiled, consider wearing them a few times before washing. Airing your clothes out or spot cleaning can help extend their life.

• Use a Laundry Bag: To protect delicate sustainable fabrics such as Tencel or hemp, consider using a mesh laundry bag. This will shield them from rougher fabrics in the wash and help prevent snags.

3. Avoid the Dryer

Although it’s convenient, using a clothes dryer can be detrimental to your sustainable fabrics. High heat can cause shrinkage, fading, and wear over time. Here are some alternatives:

• Air Dry: The gentlest way to dry your clothes is to lay them flat or hang them up to air dry. This is especially important for fabrics like hemp, linen, and organic cotton, which can easily shrink when exposed to heat.

• Dryer on Low Heat: If you must use a dryer, opt for the lowest heat setting. This can minimise the damage caused by excessive heat and help your clothes last longer.

4. Ironing and Steaming

Sustainable fabrics like linen, hemp, and organic cotton often wrinkle more than synthetic materials. While wrinkles are natural and can add to the character of the fabric, you might want to smooth them out occasionally. Here’s how to do so without damaging your clothing:

• Iron on Low Heat: Always check the fabric care label before ironing. For delicate materials like Tencel and hemp, use a low heat setting and iron the garment inside out to prevent damage.

• Steam Instead of Ironing: Steaming is a gentler way to remove wrinkles from sustainable fabrics. It helps to maintain the garment’s natural texture while minimising heat damage.

5. Store Clothes Properly

Proper storage is essential to maintaining the longevity of your sustainable fabrics. Here are some tips for keeping your garments in great condition:

• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your clothes in areas with high humidity or direct sunlight. Humidity can cause fabrics to degrade, while sunlight can cause colours to fade.

• Use Wooden or Padded Hangers: Avoid cheap plastic hangers, which can warp the shape of your garments. Opt for padded or wooden hangers to maintain the integrity of your clothes.

• Fold Heavy Items: For heavy fabrics like denim or hemp, it’s best to fold them instead of hanging them. This prevents stretching and helps keep them looking neat.

6. Repair and Restore

Part of sustainability is embracing the concept of “buying less, making it last.” Over time, your clothes might experience wear and tear, but rather than tossing them out, repair them! Here are some ideas to help you restore and extend the life of your garments:

• Sew Holes and Tears: Learn basic sewing skills to repair small tears or holes in your clothes. This can save you from having to replace the garment altogether.

• Re-dye Faded Fabrics: If your clothes have lost their vibrancy over time, consider using natural fabric dyes to refresh their colour.

• Replace Buttons or Zippers: If a button falls off or a zipper breaks, don’t throw the item away - just replace the hardware! Many sustainable brands offer spare parts, or you can find replacements online.

7. Be Mindful of Microplastics

While sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, and linen are naturally biodegradable, some sustainable fabrics like recycled polyester and nylon can shed microplastics when washed. To minimise this:

• Use a Microfibre Filter: Install a microfibre filter in your washing machine or use a product like the Guppyfriend bag to trap microplastics and prevent them from entering the water supply.

• Wash Less Frequently: As mentioned earlier, washing less frequently not only extends the life of your clothes but also helps to reduce the number of microplastics released into the environment.

Caring for sustainable fabrics isn’t just about protecting your investment - it’s also about protecting the planet. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your eco-friendly wardrobe lasts for years to come, reducing the need for constant replacements and minimising your environmental footprint.

Remember, the longevity of your garments is closely tied to how well you care for them. With a little extra attention to washing, drying, and storing, your sustainable fabrics will continue to bring joy and function to your wardrobe for years to come.