Collection: Linen Care

Understanding the Basics of Laundry Care

What is laundry care?

Laundry care is a normal process that involves all the steps necessary to safely wash, dry, and iron textiles. Since the 19th and early 20th centuries, techniques have been refined with the advent of washing machines, dryers, and modern products.

Every textile item , whether bed linen, table linen, bathroom linen, or bath linen, requires specific care. The goal is to extend the life of the fibers and ensure optimal hygiene, while limiting the risk of wear and tear. To achieve this, it is essential to know the basics of textile care and adopt good practices on a daily basis.

Maintenance symbols: a universal language

Care symbols on labels indicate the maximum allowed temperature, the normal or delicate cycle, as well as prohibitions such as no washing or chlorine bleaching. A circle can represent professional cleaning or dry cleaning, sometimes with a strikethrough to indicate that a particular solvent is not recommended.

The triangle refers to bleaching, while a square with lines or a dot specifies the conditions for tumble drying, flat drying, or line drying . The iron or iron symbol indicates whether the use of a hot iron is permitted. These simple guidelines minimize errors and allow you to see at a glance the correct treatment to apply.

Sort your laundry before washing

Before starting a wash cycle, it is essential to sort the laundry according to color (white or colored laundry), material (cotton percale, delicates, wool sweaters, technical plastic garments) and degree of soiling. This step helps minimize the risk of discoloration or deterioration.

It is recommended to turn some garments inside out, place fragile items in a protective bag, and empty pockets before first washing. Failure to sort is a common mistake that leads to a significant number of washing errors, such as a loss of color or the appearance of difficult-to-remove stains.

Best practices for washing your laundry

Choosing the right detergent and suitable products

Choosing the right detergent is essential for good laundry care. Powder detergent is effective for whites and high-temperature washes, while a mild detergent is better for delicate fabrics and cold-water washes. Some people opt for natural or eco-friendly products to reduce their environmental impact.

Fabric softener, useful for softening fibers, should be used sparingly and always during the rinse cycle. Care products such as stain removers or bleach should be used with caution, as excessive use can damage fabrics. Using the correct amount of detergent and not rubbing stains are precautions to keep in mind.

Essential washing parameters

Proper washing depends on respecting the maximum temperature indicated. Cotton generally tolerates hot water, while delicate fabrics require cooler water. Washing machines offer different cycles: normal cycle, delicate cycle, or hand wash.

Each cycle combines different mechanical action, spin times, and water levels. For delicate fabrics, machine washing is sometimes prohibited, hence the importance of reading the care symbols. Laundry must be properly loaded: overloading the machine reduces efficiency, while a half-full machine wastes space and energy.

Tips for eco-friendly washing

Reducing the impact of cleaning involves using eco-friendly and natural products such as Marseille soap, bicarbonate of soda, or white vinegar. Washing with running or cold water whenever possible saves energy.

Short cycles, washing with hot water only when necessary, and using the right detergent in the smallest amount help limit environmental damage. By using your washing machine correctly and following the detailed instructions, you can combine efficiency with respect for the planet.

Dry and iron laundry properly

Drying methods

Air drying or drying outdoors on a clothesline remains the gentlest method. Some fabrics, such as delicates, require flat drying in the shade, while others can be tumble dried. When using a tumble dryer , be aware that the temperature setting can be unsuitable, as it can damage the fibers.

When drying your laundry, be careful not to leave it too damp after spinning. The drying instructions on the label are essential to avoid damage. A garment bearing the crossed-out square or prohibited circle symbol alerts you to unsafe drying.

Ironing and folding

Ironing should follow the ironing techniques appropriate for each fiber. Ironing guidelines indicate when to use a hot or moderate iron. Delicate items should be ironed while still damp, which facilitates smoothing and prevents damage to the fabrics. Some prefer a cleaning process without an iron by using a garment steamer.

Professional cleaning products also offer practical solutions for keeping your laundry in good condition. Once ironing is complete, it's recommended to carefully fold your laundry and store it in a sturdy, dry place to prolong its lifespan.

Mistakes to absolutely avoid

Common mistakes include overloading the machine, washing at unauthorised high temperatures, not sorting properly, or mismanaging the wash cycle. Routine use of bleach or chlorine can damage fibres and alter colours.

Failure to follow the crossed-out triangle symbol or the specified heat setting for ironing can result in a burn. Finally, do not rub stains; instead, use a soft sponge or suitable detergent to preserve your clothes.

Laundry care and health

Impact of cleaning products on skin and health

Some cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can cause allergies. Cotton percale fabrics, which come into direct contact with the skin, deserve special attention.

It is recommended to use a mild detergent, without irritating additives or chlorine. Professional cleaning or professional dry cleaning (professional maintenance) may be necessary for delicate items. Repeated use of bleach should be limited to minimize adverse health effects.

Ergonomics and pain prevention

Ironing, especially with an iron, can cause back pain. Adjusting the height of the board, alternating between cleaning and professional maintenance processes, or using modern appliances can help reduce the risk.

Carrying a laundry bag carefully and adopting the correct gestures helps avoid injuries. Repeated mechanical action, such as hand wringing or hand rubbing , must be done gently to avoid damaging the fibers and to preserve health.

Laundry care and indoor air quality

Line drying indoors releases moisture that can negatively affect air quality. To limit these effects, it is recommended to air dry outdoors or use a dehumidifier.

Improperly dried laundry can remain damp and give off unpleasant odors . Delicate items like a sweater should dry flat in the shade to keep their shape. Following the care symbols helps you choose between machine drying, flat drying, or professional dry cleaning.

Towards eco-responsible laundry care

Reduce your ecological footprint

Limiting your impact involves using hot and cold water wisely, as well as washing machines wisely. Choosing eco-friendly products and respecting the maximum temperature indicated allows you to optimize each wash.

Drying tips like air drying instead of tumble drying also help reduce your carbon footprint. Small steps like measuring out the detergent or not rubbing stains more than necessary help protect textiles and the environment.

Extend the lifespan of textiles

Well-cared-for laundry retains its shine and strength. Accessories like sturdy plastic laundry bags or printed protective covers prolong the quality of your clothes. Following the normal process and care symbols helps prevent premature wear.

Natural cleaning products or professional care tailored to specific textiles ensure a longer lifespan. Whether it's linens, clothing, or delicate items, following these simple rules will help you enjoy every detail of your textiles.