OVERVIEW OF FABRICS

The following are general care tips for cleaning and caring for specialty textiles. As for all fine fabrics, we recommend that you clean them as little as possible. Always test clean on a small area, preferably a corner or backside of the material. When cleaning, alternate between dry-cleaning and hand-washing because dry cleaning will not retain the natural fiber oils as will hand-washing. Alternatively, hand-washing may diminish a small percentage of the structural character of the fabric.

Do not clean in a washing machine because it will harm the construction and malign the color. Do not iron items which are dirty or stained. Heat from the iron will set stains.  

When washing by hand always use cold water and a mild natural soap or detergent. We prefer Dr. Bonners soap with a little lemon or lime juice. For whites and brights add a spoonful or two of hydrogen peroxide. For all washing a few drops of essential oils will help to cleanse the fabric. Do not leave the fabric in water for a long time.

For drying, do not rub or wring the fabric. Roll in a towel to remove excess water. Spread the textile out on a flat absorptive surface such as a towel in the shade. Never hang when wet as the fibers will stretch.

IF drycleaning, always request professional dry-clean using a short cleaning cycle and low power solvents. Do not clean fine fabrics with standard highpower solvents such as perc (percholorethylene). 

For long term storage, natural textiles should be sealed against light, air and insects. Storing with small amounts of Lavender, Cloves, Rosemary, and/or Garlic are recommended. 

BANANA & PINEAPPLE FIBER FABRIC
Wash in cold water or professionally dryclean with low power solvent. Press with medium-high heat..

INDIGO FABRIC
Spot clean only. Do not wash.

KHADI FABRIC
The more you use Khadi fabric, the softer it becomes. Allow for 5% shrinkage with the first wash.

PEACOCK FEATHER FABRIC
Normal, regular vacuuming with a soft brush attachment may be used to remove dust deposits. Professional dryclean low power solvent, spot clean with damp cloth, dry press only. Do not wash. Clean with caution.

SELVEDGE SILK
Selvedge Silks are vintage sari’s that have been both dry-cleaned and washed many times. They are sturdy enough to withstand additional repeated cleanings. 

WOOLENS
Refresh wool quickly by hanging them in a steamy bathroom. Moisture from the steam will remove wrinkles. If wool gets wet, dry the garment at room temperature away from heat. Dry clean once a season (or when stained), and especially before storing. Always steam when pressing wool. When possible, press on the reverse side of the fabric. When necessary to press on the right side, use a press cloth to avoid a shine. Lower and lift the iron, don't slide it back and forth. Prevent imprinting inside detail by placing a piece of brown paper or tissue paper under folds, seams or darts.