Washing and caring of the fabrics via the washing machine

Washing clothes requires different care depending on the fabric type to prevent damage. Cotton, known for its durability, can be washed in warm water with regular detergent using either a gentle or regular cycle. Wool, being more delicate, necessitates cold water and a wool-specific or delicate fabric detergent, with gentle cycle or hand washing to prevent shrinking or felting. Silk, extremely delicate, requires hand washing in cold water with mild detergent, avoiding wringing or twisting and laying flat to dry. Synthetics like polyester and nylon can be washed in warm water with regular detergent, benefiting from a gentle cycle. Linen, similar to cotton, is durable but may wrinkle easily, so it’s best to wash in cool to lukewarm water with a gentle detergent and promptly remove from the washer. Denim, known for its sturdiness, can be washed in cool to warm water with regular detergent, but avoid washing with delicate items. Delicate fabrics like lace or lingerie should ideally be hand washed in cold water with gentle detergent, or placed in a mesh laundry bag if using a washing machine.

Washing different fabrics requires different care to avoid damaging them. Here’s a general guide:

• Cotton : Cotton is quite durable and can typically be washed in warm water with a regular detergent. You can use either a gentle cycle or a regular cycle for cotton items.
• Wool : Wool is more delicate and should be washed in cold water with a detergent specifically formulated for wool or delicate fabrics. Use the gentle cycle or hand wash wool items to prevent shrinking or felting.
• Silk : Silk is very delicate and should be hand washed in cold water with a mild detergent. Avoid wringing or twisting silk items, instead gently press out excess water and lay flat to dry.
• Synthetics ( Polyester, nylon etc ) : Synthetics can usually be washed in warm water with a regular detergent. They are generally more durable but still benefit from a gentle cycle to prolong their lifespan.
• Linen : Linen can be washed in cool to lukewarm water with a gentle detergent. Like cotton, linen is quite durable but may wrinkle easily, so it’s best to remove promptly from the washer and hang or lay flat to dry.
• Denim : Denim is sturdy and can typically be washed in cool to warm water with a regular detergent. You can use a regular cycle, but avoid washing with delicate items that might be damaged by the rough texture of denim.
• Delicates : For delicate fabrics like lace or lingerie, it’s best to hand wash in cold water with a gentle detergent. If you must use a washing machine, place delicate items in a mesh laundry bag to protect them from snagging or stretching.

        Always check the care label on your clothing for specific washing instructions, as some items may have special requirements. Additionally, when in doubt, it’s often safer to err on the side of caution and choose a gentler washing method to avoid damaging your clothes.

Now let us know about the types of eco friendly detergents can be used to wash the different fabrics in the washing machine. There are several eco-friendly detergent options available for washing different fabrics in the washing machine. Here are some examples:

• Plant based detergents : These detergents are made from natural, renewable plant-based ingredients, making them biodegradable and environmentally friendly. They are suitable for washing various fabrics, including cotton, synthetics, and delicates. The examples of plant based detergents are : Seventh generation, Ecover, Mrs Meyer’s clean day, Method, Biokleen, Puracy. These are just a few examples of plant-based laundry detergents available on the market. When choosing a detergent, be sure to read the ingredients list and look for certifications like USDA Certified Biobased or EPA Safer Choice to ensure that the product meets your eco-friendly criteria.
• Biodegradable detergents : These detergents are designed to break down easily in the environment, reducing their impact on waterways and ecosystems. Look for options labeled as biodegradable, which can be used for washing a wide range of fabrics. The examples of biodegradable detergents are : Attitude little ones laundry detergent, Dr Bronner’s sal suds biodegradable cleaner, Rockin green classic rock laundry detergent. These are just a few examples of biodegradable laundry detergents available on the market. When choosing a detergent, look for products that are certified as biodegradable by reputable organizations or that display eco-friendly labels to ensure their environmental credentials.
• Hypoallergenic detergents : Hypoallergenic detergents are formulated to be gentle on the skin and free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. They are suitable for washing sensitive fabrics like silk and wool, as well as for people with allergies or sensitive skin. The examples of hypoallergenic detergents are : Tide free and gentle,

All free clear, Arm & hammer sensitive skin free & clear, Seventh generation free & clear, ECOS hypoallergenic laundry detergent, Dreft stage 1: Newborn liquid detergent. 

      These are just a few examples of hypoallergenic detergents available on the market. When choosing a detergent for sensitive skin, it’s important to look for products that are free from fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals and that are dermatologist-tested to ensure their safety and effectiveness.

• DIY detergents : You can make your own eco-friendly detergent using simple ingredients like baking soda, washing soda, and castile soap. There are many recipes available online for homemade laundry detergent that can be customized to suit your needs and preferences. In one of our previous blogs, we have mentioned the ways to prepare your own DIY detergents, you can check them out there!
• Soap nuts : Soap nuts are the dried shells of the soapberry fruit, which contain natural saponins that act as a gentle cleanser. They are a natural and biodegradable alternative to traditional detergent and can be used for washing all types of fabrics.
• Liquid detergent concentrates : Some brands offer concentrated liquid detergents that require less packaging and water to produce. These detergents are often more environmentally friendly than traditional liquid detergents and can be used for washing various fabrics.

     When choosing an eco-friendly detergent, look for certifications such as the USDA Certified Bio based label or the EPA Safer Choice label, which indicate that the product meets certain environmental and safety standards. Additionally, consider factors like packaging, fragrance, and price to find the best option for your needs.