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How To Care For And Maintain Different Types Of Fabrics
March 09, 2023
Here at I Want Fabric, we know how important it is to maintain fabrics in your home or business. If you're a hobbyist, professional upholsterer or even an interior designer, you'll want to take into consideration how durable each material is, and how much effort it will take to maintain.
Understanding the durability, reliability and lifespan of different upholstery or curtain fabrics, or any other kind of fabric, is a key factor when making your decision about which fabric to choose for your project.
Synthetic Vs Organic Fabrics - A Quick Overview
When it comes to synthetic fabrics, like polyester or microfiber, these are by far the easiest to care for and maintain. Generally speaking, most synthetic fabrics can be machine washed and dried at home. If you're dealing with more delicate fabrics, such as velvet or lace, it's best to hand wash them in cold water with a gentle detergent and then hang to dry.
Organic fabrics, on the other hand, can be more difficult to maintain. These fabrics are usually made of natural materials and require a special type of care that usually involves dry cleaning or hand washing in cold water with a gentle detergent.
General Fabric Care Advice - Guidelines To Follow When Handling Any Type Of Fabric
Before we get stuck in to the details of caring and maintaining your various types of fabrics, here are some general guidelines that you should bear in mind when handling fabrics:
- Always follow the care instructions on labels to ensure your fabric remains looking its best.
- Never use harsh detergents or chemical cleaners on any type of fabric, as these can cause fading and discoloration.
- Avoid over-drying synthetic fabrics, as this can cause them to shrink or become brittle.
- Never iron any type of fabric when it's wet or damp - always make sure it is completely dry before attempting to iron. If you use an iron on wet fabrics, you could end up with permanent wrinkling or even scorching of the fabric.
- Always test a small, inconspicuous area of your fabric before attempting to clean or iron it.
- When storing fabrics, always keep them away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat, as this can cause fading, warping, shrinking and other serious issues.
Here at I Want Fabric, our experienced team knows everything there is to know about caring for our premium fabrics. If you have any questions about washing, drying or styling your chosen fabrics, don't hesitate to get in touch with our experienced team today.
How To Care For Synthetic Fabrics
Caring for most synthetic fabrics is extremely simple. For loose synthetic fabrics, you can simply put them in the washing machine with a gentle detergent and cold water. Once washed, you can simply hang to dry or tumble dry on low heat - just be sure to double-check any care labels before doing so.
If the fabric is upholstered, and close to impossible to remove, you can still clean and maintain it. Vacuuming and spot cleaning with a mild detergent is usually enough to keep the fabric looking good as new.
How To Care For Leather - Care & Maintenance Techniques
Leather is an incredibly durable and long-lasting material, but it does require special care to maintain its appearance. Vacuuming your leather furniture regularly will help remove dirt and dust, and wiping it down with a damp cloth will help keep the surface clean.
Additionally, using mild leather cleaner and conditioner every 6 to 12 months will ensure that your leather stays in top condition for years to come.
How To Care For Velvet Fabrics - Cleaning & Maintenance Tips
Velvet fabrics, both synthetic and organic, are soft, luxurious and beautiful, but they can be tricky to maintain. To keep them looking their best, it's important to vacuum and spot clean regularly with a mild detergent.
When it comes time for a deeper clean, you should always use professional dry cleaning services. This is velvet fabrics are delicate and regular washing can cause damage - instead, you're better leaving these materials to a professional.
How To Care For Wool Fabrics - Cleaning Tips
Wool fabrics, such as tweed and flannel, can be tricky to maintain. The best way to care for wool fabrics is to dry clean them on a regular basis - at least once a season. Additionally, you should make sure that the fabric is not exposed to high heat or direct sunlight, as this can damage the fibers of the fabric.
Additionally, it's best to use a lint roller or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and dust from your wool fabrics. This will help them stay looking their best for years to come.
Caring For Curtain Fabrics
Of course, how you care for your curtain fabrics depends on exactly the kind of material you're using. Generally speaking, curtain fabrics should be washed on a gentle cycle with an extremely mild detergent and then hung up to dry.
However, for heavier materials like velvet or linen, you may want to consider professional dry cleaning services instead. This will help the fabric keep its shape and last longer, and also avoid the musty or damp smell which can sometimes linger after washing curtains in your own home.
Do I Need To Wash Fabrics Before Using Them?
In some cases, you may be advised to wash any fabrics you purchase before using them for crafts, upholstery or any other project. Washing them as soon as you get them will help to remove any dirt and dust, as well as any chemicals used during the manufacturing process.
This is especially important for organic fabrics such as cotton, linen or wool - if you don't wash them beforehand, it can cause skin irritation or breathing difficulties. So always make sure to check the care label before using any fabric!
That is one of the areas where synthetic fabrics have an advantage - as they are usually pre-treated, you don't need to worry about washing them before using. However, it's always best to double-check the label if there is one.
For Hard-Wearing, Reliable & Durable Fabrics, Shop I Want Fabric Today
Here at I Want Fabric, we have an extensive range of fabrics perfect for upholstery, crafting and more. Our carefully curated collection features everything from leather to synthetic velvet, so you can find the perfect fabrics for your project.
Our team is always on hand to answer any questions you may have, so don't hesitate to get in touch if you need some advice. You can also browse our website today to find out more about the fabrics we stock and how best to care for them.