Cotton is a natural fiber known for its comfort and water absorbency. While it is strong when dry, it tends to wrinkle easily and can shrink when washed in hot water.
Cotton is water-absorbent and comfortable, with good static resistance. However, it discolors easily and wrinkles easily. When soaked in water, it swells and shrinks, and it has poor mildew resistance. Cotton also has high resistance to tearing and rubbing, and it becomes even stronger when wet.
Cotton fabrics should be washed normally, but soaking is not advised for woven fabrics. For T-shirts, hand-washing is recommended. Cotton garments can be ironed at a high temperature and should be stored dry to prevent mildew. Hot water washing will cause more shrinkage, so it’s best to avoid it. If the garment is colored, it should be washed separately the first time.
Linen is a strong plant-based fabric that is known for being absorbent and comfortable. However, it wrinkles easily and tends to shrink when exposed to water.
Linen is absorbent, comfortable, and has good static resistance. It wrinkles easily and swells in water, which leads to shrinkage. Linen has better dry strength compared to cotton and becomes even stronger when wet. It is also resistant to dirt.
Linen should be washed normally, but soaking is not recommended. Always hand wash linen garments and avoid tumble drying or washing at high temperatures. Linen should be ironed while hot, and it must be stored dry to prevent mildew.
Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is known for its durability, resistance to wrinkles, and easy care. However, it is sensitive to heat.
Polyester is less absorbent and offers good resistance to sunlight. It tends to hold oil stains tenaciously but retains its color well. Polyester is also highly resistant to wrinkles, making it a low-maintenance fabric.
Polyester should be washed in warm water and ironed with no steam at a low temperature. Be cautious of heat, as polyester is sensitive to high temperatures.
Acetate is a synthetic fabric with a silky smooth texture and a rich appearance. It keeps its color well, but it is weak and heat-sensitive.
Acetate has weak fibers and low abrasion resistance, and it is heat-sensitive. It has moderate absorbency and good resistance to mildew.
Acetate should only be dry-cleaned. Ironing should be done at a very low temperature, and care should be taken to avoid contact with nail polish remover. Tumble drying should be avoided as well.
Spandex, known for its elasticity and comfort, is often blended with other fibers to create garments that have a better fit and feel. It was originally developed under the name Lycra by Dupont.
Spandex has properties similar to rubber and is one of the most complex and expensive synthetic fibers. It can turn yellowish when exposed to chlorine bleach.
Spandex can be washed normally but should never be ironed, as the fabric loses its stretch when heated. It should also be kept away from chlorine bleach to avoid discoloration.
Silk is a luxurious and delicate fabric known for its smooth, light texture and resistance to wear. It retains its color well but requires special care.
Silk is resistant to wear and tear, light in weight, and smooth in texture. It keeps its color over time but should be handled with care to avoid damage.
Silk should be washed at a very hot temperature, and tumble drying should be avoided. Ironing should be done with low heat, and care should be taken to avoid rubbing or exposure to sweat, which can damage the fabric.