Organic cotton is grown without the use of chemicals and genetically-engineered seeds, therefore creating less greenhouse gas emissions and environmental pollution. It also requires less water in its production and, overall, helps to preserve the health of soil, nature, and people.
To maintain the shape and quality of your organic cotton garments, make sure to always care for them properly. Following the steps below will help you to do so, while also minimizing water and energy usage. As always, remember to read the individual care instructions inside your garment as specific requirements may differ.
How to wash Cotton
You may machine-wash your organic cotton garments at a normal wash cycle setting and at a low temperature (max. 30°C), or cold. Choosing lower temperatures reduces the risk of shrinkage and color fading while minimizing the associated cost and environmental impact of energy usage.
Use a gentle eco-friendly laundry detergent and avoid conventional softeners as well as bleach, as they can damage the fabric. To further protect your organic cotton garments, always wash them with similar colors and inside out.
How to dry Cotton
Avoid tumble-drying, as this can speed up the aging of your organic cotton garments, may cause shrinkage, and also uses a considerable amount of energy. Instead, hang dry your organic cotton garments immediately after removing them from the washing machine, and gently shake and re-shape them while doing so.
In case you really do need to dry your clothes as quickly as possible, you may tumble-dry them using the air cycle (no heat). But please remember that hang drying your laundry is the most environmentally-friendly option.
How to iron Cotton
Gently shaking out your garments while they are still damp is often enough to remove wrinkles naturally. However, if you do need to iron your organic cotton clothes, you may do so at a low to medium heat. A good option is always to start with the lowest heat setting and gradually adjust it as needed.
How to remove stains from Cotton
Generally, it’s best to always treat stains immediately by rinsing them with cold or warm water. Keep in mind that using cold instead of warm or hot water can reduce the chance of a stain setting, especially if it’s wine, pasta sauce, or blood. If water alone doesn’t remove the stain, apply a small amount of eco-friendly laundry detergent to a damp cloth and gently dab the stain. If a stain is severe or you are afraid of ruining the item, it’s a good idea to err on the side of caution and take it to a cleaner.
Summary
Because organic cotton is not treated with harsh chemicals, it can be less resistant to heat. Therefore, always make sure to wash, dry, and iron your organic cotton clothes at low temperatures. And don’t forget that washing your clothes less is also a good idea - it helps preserve your garments’ quality, and has a positive impact on your wallet and the environment.
