How to Wash Delicate Clothes

What Counts as Delicate Clothing?

Delicate clothes include fabrics that are easily damaged by heat, agitation, or harsh chemicals. Common delicates include:

• Silk and satin
• Lace and embroidered fabrics
• Chiffon and georgette
• Cashmere and fine wool
• Rayon and viscose
• Beaded or embellished garments

Always check the care label first — if it says "dry clean only," follow that instruction. If it says "hand wash" or "delicate cycle," you have options.

Step 1: Check the Care Label

The care label is your first guide. Look for these symbols:

• Hand wash symbol (hand in a tub of water) — hand wash only
• Delicate/gentle cycle (tub with one line underneath) — machine wash on gentle
• Dry clean only — do not attempt to wash at home

Step 2: Use a Gentle Detergent

Regular detergents are too harsh for delicate fabrics. Use a specially formulated gentle wash like Eucalan Lavender Fine Fabric Wash — it's designed for silk, wool, and other delicates, requires no rinsing, and is gentle enough for hand washing.

Step 3: Hand Wash or Use a Mesh Bag

For most delicates, hand washing is the safest option:

1. Fill a clean basin with cool or lukewarm water (never hot)
2. Add a small amount of gentle detergent and swirl to dissolve
3. Submerge the garment and gently squeeze the water through — do not scrub or wring
4. Soak for 10–15 minutes
5. Rinse thoroughly with cool water until no soap remains

If machine washing, place delicates in a lingerie wash bag to protect them from snagging and friction, and select the delicate or gentle cycle with cold water.

Step 4: Never Wring or Twist

Wringing delicate fabrics distorts their shape and can permanently stretch or tear them. Instead, gently press the garment against the side of the basin to remove excess water, then lay it flat on a clean dry towel and roll the towel up to absorb moisture.

Step 5: Dry Flat

Never hang delicate items to dry — the weight of the wet fabric will stretch them out of shape. Lay them flat on a folding sweater dryer rack and reshape gently while damp. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Step 6: Store Properly

Fold delicates rather than hanging them (especially knitwear). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light. Use acid-free tissue paper for silk or satin items stored long-term.

Quick Tips for Washing Delicates

• Always use cool or lukewarm water — never hot
• Wash delicates inside out to protect embellishments and surface texture
• Wash infrequently — spot clean between wears when possible
• Never put delicates in the dryer unless the label explicitly allows it
• Iron on the lowest setting with a pressing cloth, or use steam

Recommended Products

• Eucalan Lavender Fine Fabric Wash — gentle, no-rinse formula safe for silk, wool, and lace
• Premium Bra Lingerie Wash Bags — protect delicates from snagging in the washing machine
• OXO Folding Sweater Dryer Rack — flat drying to preserve shape and prevent stretching