Corduroy is a unique and versatile fabric that is prized for its textured ribbing, or “Welsh,” which gives it style and structure.
However, when it comes to washing, corduroy can be tricky.
If you’ve ever wondered “How to wash corduroy fabric” without damaging its iconic texture, you’re not alone. Improper washing methods can cause corduroy to lose its softness, shrink, or fade.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to ensure your corduroy garments stay in tip-top shape. Whether you’re dealing with a vintage corduroy jacket or a pair of trendy pants, learning how to properly care for this fabric will help extend its life.
Understanding the Properties of Corduroy Fabric
Corduroy is typically made from cotton or a cotton blend and is woven in a way that creates vertical ridges, called wales.
If you’re interested, you can learn more about how corduroy fabric is made in this article.
These wales not only determine the appearance of corduroy, but also make it more susceptible to damage from improper washing techniques.
This fabric is dense and textured, which attracts dust and lint.
In addition, wales can flatten or lose their shape under high temperatures or vigorous agitation.
In order to keep your corduroy garments looking new again, it is crucial to understand “How to properly wash corduroy fabric”.
Let’s take a deep dive into the preparation and process of washing this fabric.
Preparing to Wash Corduroy Fabric
Before you begin washing, it is important to properly prepare your corduroy:
- Read the care label:
This is the first step in understanding how to wash a specific corduroy item. Some corduroy fabrics may require special treatments, such as dry cleaning or hand washing.So if you have a new corduroy garment, you can read this washing tip first before you know how to wash Corduroy Fabric clothes. - Sort by color:
Like many fabrics, corduroy will fade. It is best to separate dark and light garments to prevent color transfer. - Spot treat stains:
Before washing, treat any stains with a stain remover. Rub the fabric gently, as harsh scrubbing can damage the texture of the wales.
How to Wash Corduroy Fabric by Hands?
If you are concerned about damaging your corduroy, hand washing is one of the gentlest methods:
- Fill a sink or basin with cold water and add a mild detergent, avoid using bleach or fabric softener.
- Turn the corduroy garment inside out to protect the wales.
- Submerge the garment in the water and gently agitate, focusing on areas that may need extra attention, such as the collar or cuffs.
- Rinse thoroughly in cold water until the detergent is completely gone.
- Gently press out the water, but do not wring out the fabric, as this can cause the wales to lose their shape.
How to Wash Corduroy Fabric by Machine?
While hand washing is best, machine washing can also be done safely if the proper precautions are taken:
- Always wash your corduroy inside out. This prevents the velvet surface from rubbing against other fabrics, which can cause it to flatten.
- Use cold water and select a gentle cycle to reduce agitation.
- Use a mild detergent without bleach, as bleach can weaken fibers and cause fading.
- Avoid washing with towels or other linty fabrics. Corduroy easily attracts lint, and removing it afterward can be difficult.
By following these steps, you can machine wash corduroy fabric without affecting its quality.
Drying Corduroy Fabric Properly
When learning how to wash corduroy fabric, proper drying is just as important as the washing process:
- Air Drying
The safest way to dry corduroy is to let it air dry. Lay it flat on a clean towel or hang it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat. - Use a Dryer
If you are pressed for time, you can dry corduroy on a low setting. However, be careful, as high temperatures may cause shrinkage or damage the weft threads. Always remove the garment from the dryer while it is still slightly damp to prevent over-drying. - After Drying
After drying, if the weft threads are flat, use a fabric brush to fluff them up. Avoid ironing your corduroy unless absolutely necessary, and if you must iron, always iron from the wrong side.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Corduroy Looking New
Maintaining your corduroy between washes will help extend its life:
1.Regular Brushing
Use a clothes brush to remove surface dirt and lint. Brushing the fabric in the Welsh direction will keep the texture fresh.
2.Spot Cleaning
For minor spills or stains, try spot cleaning and avoid frequent full washes, which can wear out the fabric.
3.Storage
Store your corduroy in a cool, dry place. Hanging it up will help prevent wrinkling and flattening wales.
Conclusion
Knowing “How to wash corduroy fabric” correctly will keep your clothes looking fresh, soft, and vibrant for longer. Whether you’re hand-washing or using a washing machine, the key is to treat this fabric with care, paying attention to the temperature, detergent, and drying method. By following these tips, you can maintain the texture and structure of your favorite corduroy garments for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.How do I prevent my corduroy fabric from fading?
To prevent fading, wash corduroy in cold water, avoid excessive washing, and keep it out of direct sunlight when drying.
2.Will corduroy shrink when washed?
Yes, corduroy can shrink if exposed to high temperatures during washing or drying. To prevent this, always wash with cold water and air dry or tumble dry on low heat.
3.Can I iron corduroy fabric?
While it’s best to avoid ironing, if necessary, iron the fabric inside out on a low heat setting. This protects the texture and prevents flattening of the wales.
4.How do I remove lint from corduroy?
Corduroy tends to attract lint, especially when washed with towels or fleece. To remove lint, use a lint roller or a fabric brush. Brushing the fabric in the direction of the wales will help.
5.Can I machine wash corduroy pants?
Yes, but turn the pants inside out, wash them in cold water, and use a gentle cycle. Avoid washing with heavy fabrics that may cause friction.
6.Is it safe to dry corduroy in a dryer?
Air drying is the safest option for corduroy, but if you must use a dryer, tumble dry on low heat and remove the garment while it’s still slightly damp to avoid shrinkage.
