2023-04-21 07:30:15
Cotton is a privileged fiber that makes it possible to make comfortable and fresh clothes. As it is a garment that is used frequently, it is constantly in the washing machine. We tell you how to extend its life.
The softness and lightness that cotton garments provide are just two of the qualities best known and most demanded by those who prefer garments made with this fabric. It is precisely the comfort of the fabric that has transcended its use, as it is not only used for intimate apparel, but also works in sportswear, casual wear and other apparel.
This is due to the multiple advantages that the fabric entails; among them, sustainability. And for you to get the most out of the textile, we will go into the proper techniques for its maintenance.
The attributes of cotton
Cotton comes from the plant belonging to the genus Gossypiumfamily Malvácea, in popular slang known as cotton. L’Humanities Encyclopedia comments that she grows around the seed and is useful in the textile industry, to the point of positioning itself as the most important natural fiber in the world.
These fibers vary in length and proportion. When they are short, they are called “Indian cotton”; if they are average, it is “American cotton”; and the longest fiber is what is called “Egyptian cotton”. The quality and flexibility of each of them is used to produce fabrics and make sheets, towels and clothing.
Likewise, cotton is profitable in the creation of paper, rope and animal feed. It is also used in the preparation of oils and biofuels. As if that were not enough, there are currently sustainable cultivation procedures that benefit the plant and the environment.
National Geographic points out that, according to the German Federation for the Environment and Nature Conservation, growing conventional cotton for a regular T-shirt requires 2,700 liters of water, but if they use organic cotton, half that is enough.
Read also: 7 tips for washing satin clothes
Advantages that stand out in cotton clothing
Cotton is a fiber that lends itself to the assembly of other fabrics, like wool, polyester and linen, for example. Each brings its own qualities and the result is a comfortable garment. There are more advantages of using the product in making clothes and we will present them immediately.
It is insulating
Cotton Works reports that cotton with a certain pattern increases volume and traps air, thus maximizing its insulating power. They note that garments with these characteristics are intended for active and outdoor markets, so the insulating cotton naturally protects once morest the wind and guarantees thermal regulation, without the garment losing comfort.
Regulates pH
According Medline Plusby increasing the airflow, the fabric decreases the accumulation of moisture. Thus, all-cotton underwear or synthetic underwear with cotton lining in the crotch is recommended to balance the acidity of the intimate area.
It has an absorption capacity
A study published by Science Direct points out that cotton fiber retains water 24 to 27 times its weight. Such absorbent properties result from the molecular structure of the fiber.
Cotton comprises a complex series of atoms grouped together in polymer molecules, capable of forming pure cellulose, responsible for absorption. Those who sweat excessively find a great ally in this feature.
Transpiration
It is a breathable fabric that keeps the skin clean, ventilated and free of bad odors, which is difficult with synthetic textiles. Cotton clothes are ideal for exercising or dressing up in the warm season.
Softness and resistance
The texture of cotton is pleasant in contact with the skin, so softness is one of its relevant characteristics. Durability is added, as it is a very strong fabric, even stronger if it gets wet.
Although it is recommended to wash it in cold water, cotton can withstand high temperatures. This allows you to wash it in hot water when the stains or dirt is deep.
Hypoallergenic attributes
The National Chamber of the Textile Industry suggests that pure organic cotton is the best hypoallergenic fabric, meaning it produces little or no allergic reactions. They claim it’s gentle and contains no harsh compoundsas farmers exempt their crops from pesticides.
If you have sensitive skin, cotton is very unlikely to cause irritation. In fact, the most delicate skin is that of babies and for this reason most of their clothes are made with such a fabric. This material is also often used for bandages and medical gauze.
How to wash cotton clothes?
Although cotton has soft properties, to prolong its durability you need to wash it with some care. If you mix in the laundry, the consequences will be discolored, stained or shrunken parts.
You can avoid this by following the advice we offer below to the letter:
- Wash inside out in cold water: turning clothes inside out to put them in the washing machine reduces wear and tear. Also, cold water and a gentle cycle help.
- Separate colors: dark tones are one filler, while white pieces are another. Thus, the linen does not mix the pigments and the clothes retain their original colors.
- Use a neutral detergent: aggressive soaps attack the color intensity of cotton. A mild or neutral detergent should be used.
- Drying in the open air : do not put cotton clothes in the dryer; leave to dry in the open air, out of direct sunlight so as not to weaken the fibres. In the dryer, this textile wears out due to heat and friction.
- Ironing while still damp: as in the washing machine, when ironing, do it with the garment inside out and while it is still slightly damp. If the clothes are completely dry when you pick them up, turn on the steamer on the iron or spray water with a sprayer.
- If there are stains, do not rub them: when clothes have stubborn stains, hand pre-washing is recommended. In the process, do not rub the stain, as it will soak the fabric further. Try soaking for a few hours in hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, or a formula containing baking soda and lemon.
Key Info: Always read the label to treat garments with the manufacturer’s precise instructions.
Also read: How to wash bikinis to make them last longer?
Don’t Miss the Benefits Cotton Clothing Gives Your Skin
Cotton has set a high bar that is hard to reach for other fabrics, especially when it comes to intimate apparel. This is due to the freshness and comfort offered by the fabric, to the point that it is recommended to reduce the risk of suffering from fungus, allergies or infections caused by moisture retention.
Take advantage of the textile and also wear it in pajamas, Tops and pants, taking advantage of the fact that you can find modern and beautiful models on the market, made with this fabric.
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