Silk: gentle hands, no sun
Silk is a protein fibre basically the same chemistry as your hair. Treat it that way. Hand wash in cold water with a pH-neutral shampoo or a silk-safe detergent. Never wring; roll in a towel to press water out. Iron inside out at the lowest setting while still slightly damp.
Cotton: tough, but not invincible
Cotton can take a beating, which is why most people abuse it. The two killers are heat and over-drying. Wash in cold water, tumble dry on low or line dry in shade. White cotton can take the sun; coloured cotton fades within weeks of direct exposure.
Linen: love the wrinkles, fear the wringing
Linen wrinkles that’s the point. Don’t fight it; fold instead of crumple, and steam-iron while damp for a relaxed, crisp finish. Always wash on a gentle cycle: the fibres are strong but the weave is loose, and aggressive agitation pulls it out of shape.
Wool: cold, slow, flat
Wool shrinks for two reasons: heat and movement. Always hand wash in cold water, push gently don’t rub and dry flat on a towel. Never hang a wet woollen on a hanger; gravity will stretch it permanently.
Storage rules that apply to all four
Clean before storing body oils and food stains attract insects and set permanently over months. Use breathable cotton garment bags, not plastic. Add cedar blocks or neem leaves for natural insect protection.
