Handwoven Cotton & Cottolin Care
Cotton is a strong, versatile natural fiber, and handwoven cotton items can last beautifully with a little care. Towels, blankets, table runners, and wash cloths are the most durable; while scarves may require gentler care depending on the woven structure. Here’s a guide to keep them looking their best:
Washing: Cotton can typically be machine washed, with cold water and a mild, bleach and dye-free detergent to help maintain color and texture. Fabric softeners can prevent good absorbency, so it’s best to avoid them. For delicate weaves, hand washing in cool water is ideal.
Drying: Dry most cotton items in the dryer as normal but without fabric softeners/dryer sheets as these prevent your towels from having good absorbancy. Remove while slightly damp and iron to avoid wrinkles. Air drying is best for gentle weaves to prevent shrinkage and protect the fibers. Lay flat or hang in a shaded area, as direct sunlight can fade colors.
Ironing: For a smoother look, iron on medium heat while the fabric is still slightly damp. If you like, you can place a thin cloth over the item to protect the fabric or iron on the reverse side.
Storage: Fold and store in a cool, dry place. Avoid tightly packing or hanging heavy cotton items, as this can stretch the fibers and affect the shape.
Spot Cleaning: For small stains, treat immediately by dabbing gently with a mild detergent solution. Avoid scrubbing, as it can cause fiber abrasion.
With these simple steps, your handwoven cotton items will stay soft, strong, and beautifully textured over time.
Stripping cotton can effectively remove detergent buildup, minerals, and oils that may accumulate over time. Here’s a safe, natural method for stripping cotton:
Prepare the Solution:
In a large tub or basin, fill with hot water (as hot as the cotton can tolerate).
Add 1/4 cup of baking soda, 1/4 cup of washing soda (sodium carbonate), and 1/4 cup of white vinegar. Stir until dissolved. Alternatively, you can substitute washing soda with borax if preferred.
Soak the Cotton:
Submerge the cotton items in the solution, ensuring they’re fully covered. Let them soak for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally to help loosen any buildup.
Rinse Thoroughly:
Drain the solution and rinse the items several times in cool water until the water runs clear. This will ensure no stripping agents are left behind on the fabric.
Wash and Dry as usual:
After rinsing, wash as usual.
This stripping process will help refresh the cotton by removing unwanted residue and restoring its softness and is best used for kitchen towels and wash cloths. Stripping is best done occasionally, as frequent stripping can wear down natural fibers.