Laundry and Dry Cleaning Care of Fabrics and Decorative Textiles
By Mary Marlowe Leverette, About.com Guide to Laundry
To handle laundry well, you should have a basic understanding of fabrics. This guide will teach you how to launder or dry clean different types of fibers, specialty fabrics and delicate items.
- Care of Natural Fibers
- Care of Synthetic Fibers
- Care of Specialty Fabrics
- Care of Accessories, Decorative & Vintage Items
Care of Natural Fibers
Natural fibers come from either plants or animals. Both provide beautiful fibers that are woven into fabrics like cotton, linen, rayon, ramie, silk, wool and cashmere. Learn how to care for natural fibers and help keep your garments looking beautiful and lasting longer.
- Cotton Care and Stain Removal
- Linen Care and Stain Removal
- Lyocell Care and Stain Removal
- Ramie Care and Stain Removal
Care of Synthetic Fibers
Synthetic fibers are man-made and produce tough, durable fabrics. Most are sensitive to high temperatures and attract oil stains; so proper care is needed to keep them looking their best.
- Acetate Care and Stain Removal
- Acrylic Care and Stain Removal
- Nylon Care and Stain Removal
- Olefin Care and Stain Removal
- Polyester Care and Stain Removal
- Synthetic Blends Care and Stain Removal
- Vinyl & Rubber Care and Stain Removal
Care of Specialty Fabrics
Decorative trims, delicate weaving or knitting techniques and intricate designs all require special attention. Some care can be done in the home laundry and others require a professional cleaner. Learn what to do to keep your special garments looking great.
- Care of Beaded Garments
- Care of Brocade Garments
- Care of Cashmere Garments
- Care of Corduroy Garments
- Care of Damask Garments and Linens
- Care of Lace Garments and Linens
- Care of Satin Garments and Linens
- Care of Sequined Garments
- Care of Silk Garments
- Care of Velvet Garments
Care of Accessories, Decorative & Vintage Items
From neckties to quilts, many of the accessories and decorative items we use everyday need special care. While made from recognizable fabric and fibers, their construction dictates how they are cleaned.
