How to wash cotton clothes

Overview

Cotton is forgiving but not indestructible. Wash it at the right temperature, protect the colours, and dry it gently — and your cotton pieces will last for years.

Before you wash

Check the care label if there is one.
Separate whites from colours.
Separate darks from lights on the first few washes (colours bleed).
Turn dark garments inside out to reduce fading.
Empty pockets and close zips / buttons.

Washing

Whites — up to 60°C (hot) with detergent. Use bleach only if the label allows.
Colours — 30°C or cold. Cold water keeps colours vibrant.
Delicates (thin cotton, lace, embroidery) — hand wash or gentle cycle in a mesh bag.
Ankara / printed cotton — cold water, gentle detergent, wash separately the first 2–3 times.
Don't overload the machine.

Detergent

Use less detergent than you think. Too much builds up in the fibres and dulls the fabric.
A mild detergent for coloured cotton, a stronger one for whites.

Drying

Air-dry where possible — direct sun bleaches darks, so hang them in shade.
If tumble-drying, use low heat. High heat shrinks cotton and breaks down elastic.
Reshape while damp.
Iron while slightly damp for the smoothest finish.

Getting cotton to last

Wash less often — every 2–3 wears is fine for most cotton items.
Spot-clean stains instead of full-washing.
Fold heavy cotton knits instead of hanging (hanging stretches them).

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