How to Hand Wash Delicates: A Step-By-Step Guide

At the end of a long laundry day, few things are worse than realizing your favorite top has been eaten alive by the washing machine. We’ve all been there. To avoid damaging your precious clothes in the future, consider hand washing them. It’s not as complicated as it may seem, and with this helpful guide, your delicate garments will be clean in no time. 

Materials Needed:

• Mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics
• Clean basin or sink
• Clean, soft towels
• Clothes hangers with padded clips (for hanging delicate fabrics)
• Absorbent towels or a drying rack

Step 1: Read the Care Label Always check the care label on the delicate fabric item for specific washing instructions. Some fabrics may require special care or be labeled as "dry clean only," in which case hand washing may not be suitable.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains (if applicable) If there are any stains on the fabric, gently pre-treat them using a small amount of mild detergent or a stain remover, following the product's instructions.

Step 3: Fill the Basin with Water Fill a clean basin or sink with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage delicate fabrics.

Step 4: Add Detergent Add a small amount of mild detergent suitable for delicate fabrics to the water. Mix it well to create a gentle soapy solution.

Step 5: Submerge the Fabric Gently submerge the delicate fabric item in the soapy water. Swirl it around to allow the detergent to penetrate the fibers.

Step 6: Hand Wash Gently Gently agitate the fabric in the soapy water, paying extra attention to any stained areas. Avoid scrubbing or wringing, as it may damage the delicate fibers.

Step 7: Rinse Thoroughly Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, lukewarm water. Submerge the fabric item and gently agitate it to remove any detergent residue.

Step 8: Press Out Excess Water Carefully press the fabric between your hands to remove excess water. Avoid twisting or wringing, as this can cause stretching or distortion.

Step 9: Absorbent Towel Method (for delicate fabrics like silk or lace): Lay a clean, absorbent towel on a flat surface and place the damp fabric on top. Roll the towel and fabric together, gently pressing to absorb more water. Unroll and repeat with a dry towel if necessary.

Step 10: Hang Dry Hang the fabric item on a clothes hanger with padded clips to avoid leaving marks on the delicate fabric. Ensure proper airflow and avoid direct sunlight, as it may cause fading or damage to certain fabrics. For certain fabrics, you may prefer to lie the garment flat on a hanging rack to prevent stretching.

Special Tips for Different Fabrics:

• Silk: Use a gentle silk-specific detergent. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause shrinkage or loss of luster.
• Lace: Place a clean towel or cloth between the delicate lace and the hanger to avoid stretching.
• Cashmere/Wool: Hand wash in cold water with a detergent suitable for wool. Gently press out excess water and avoid hanging, as it may cause the fabric to stretch. Instead, lay flat to dry on a clean, absorbent surface.
• Sequins/Beads: Turn the garment inside out before washing to protect the delicate embellishments. Hand wash gently and avoid wringing or rubbing.
• Rayon: Handle gently, as it can lose strength when wet. Lay flat to dry to maintain its shape.

By following these steps and tips, you can hand wash and hang dry delicate fabrics effectively, helping to preserve their quality and prolong their lifespan.