The perfect match – Find out which washing method is best suited for your material


Everyone in your family has that special item they just can’t wear enough. Over time, washing items incorrectly can cause them to lose colour and shape. So we’ve put together a quick guide to matching washing methods to material so that your family’s favourites can stay fabulous for longer.


Although denim is probably one of the sturdiest materials, the washing method shouldn’t be as rough as one might think.

  1. Always turn your jeans inside out before popping them into the wash.
  2. Wash jeans in cold water with similar colours or textures.
  3. Choose a delicate cycle.
  4. Dry outside on a line and never tumble dry your jeans.


Cotton items are very durable and can take quite the punch when it comes to washing.

  1. Machine wash cotton in warm water.
  2. Select a normal wash cycle.
  3. Tumble dry on a low setting.
  4. Keep your towels fluffy by always using half the recommended amount of detergent and putting them through an extra rinse cycle once they are clean.


Silk is a delicate fabric and should always be handled with care.

  1. Gently hand wash silk in very cold water and rinse thoroughly.
  2. Press the water out of the fabric. Never twist or wring silk.
  3. Never hang a silk garment in the sun to dry. Hang inside and allow to air dry.


Chiffon is becoming more and more popular, but is a delicate material to take care of.

  1. Chiffon items should be machine washed individually.
  2. Select a delicate cycle with a short spin cycle and cold water.
  3. Don’t hang, wring or twist chiffon. Lay on top of a towel, cover with a second towel and press down until excess water is removed.

Remember that manufacturers will always place washing instructions on the label of the clothing item. Follow these as closely as possible to keep your garments great.

Reckon you know your washing labels? Take our label test and check if you can match each image with the correct instructions.