Material Matters

Prolong the lifespan of your clothes. get the process right with these expert tips

- Ayushi Thapliyal

Separate according to type

Check the manufacturers instructions on water temperature, chemical use or ironing methods. Take meticulous care of baby clothes and opt for mild detergents, as those with alkali can cause allergic reactions. Always wash bed linens and towels separately, advises Kiran Kumar, executive housekeeper at Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru.

Know your fabric

“Hand-wash loose structured and low strength fabric,” says Purva Khurana, associate professor, National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Delhi. Follow this advice for silks, lingerie, sweaters, fine knitwear, linens (use cold water), cottons, viscose and polyester nets and chiffons. Machine washing may be hassle-free, but it can cause shrinkage and pilling. “Certain silks, such as dupion or Indian traditional silks like tussar, muga, or