How to Wash Different Fabrics
Every fibre behaves differently in water and heat. A fabric-by-fabric guide to washing clothes so they last longer.
The short answer: most everyday fabrics wash well cool (30°C/86°F) on a normal or gentle cycle. Wool and delicates need cold water and minimal agitation, denim prefers being washed inside out and less often, and stretch fabrics should be kept away from high heat.
Quick reference
| Fabric | Water | Cycle | Drying |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Cool to warm | Normal | Line dry or low heat |
| Polyester | Cool to warm | Normal | Line dry or low heat |
| Linen | Cool | Gentle | Line dry; iron while damp |
| Wool | Cold | Wool/hand wash | Dry flat |
| Denim | Cold, inside out | Normal or gentle | Line dry |
| Nylon | Cool | Gentle | Line dry or low heat |
| Spandex/elastane | Cold | Gentle | Line dry; no high heat |
Cotton
Durable and easy to wash. Separate darks from whites, as cotton dyes can bleed. Use cooler water to reduce shrinkage and fading.
Polyester
Resists shrinking and wrinkles, but can hold onto oils and odours. Pre-treat greasy marks, avoid overloading and skip high dryer heat.
Linen
Gets softer with every wash. Use a gentle cycle, don't overload, and hang to dry. Linen creases easily; ironing while slightly damp is easiest.
Wool
Wash only when needed — airing often freshens it. Use cold water and a wool detergent on a wool or hand-wash cycle, never wring, and dry flat away from direct heat.
Denim
Wash inside out in cold water to reduce fading, and wash less often. Dark and raw denim can transfer dye, so wash separately at first. Stretch denim contains elastane, so avoid high heat.
Nylon
Strong but heat-sensitive. Wash cool on a gentle cycle; a mesh bag protects lightweight items such as tights and sportswear.
Spandex / elastane
Heat breaks down elastic fibres over time, causing sagging. Wash cold, avoid fabric softener on activewear and air-dry.
Habits that help everything last
- Close zips and empty pockets before washing.
- Turn printed and dark items inside out.
- Use the right amount of detergent — more isn't better.
- Don't overload the drum.
Dealing with a mark? See how to remove stains from clothes. Worried about sizing changes? Read how to prevent clothes from shrinking.