Useful tips and care instructions for embroidered clothing

Caring for embroidered clothing is a little different than caring for regular clothing.

Here are some tips to keep your embroidered pieces looking their best:

Washing

• Hand washing is ideal: If possible, hand wash your embroidered clothing with a mild detergent in cold water. Gently swish the garment in the water, and avoid rubbing or scrubbing the embroidery. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
• Machine washing: If you must use a washing machine, turn the garment inside out to protect the embroidery. Use a mesh laundry bag for extra protection. Wash in cold water on a delicate cycle with a mild detergent.  
• Avoid bleach: Never use chlorine bleach or optical brightening agents on embroidered clothing, as they can damage the threads and cause colors to fade.  
• Remove promptly: After the wash cycle is complete, remove the garment promptly from the washing machine to prevent wrinkles.  
• Don't soak: Never leave embroidered clothing soaking in water.  

Drying

• Air dry is best: The best way to dry embroidered clothing is to air dry it. Lay the garment flat on a clean towel or hang it on a padded hanger, away from direct sunlight.  
• Tumble drying: If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and remove the garment while it is still slightly damp. Overheating can damage the embroidery.  

Ironing

• Iron inside out: Always iron embroidered clothing inside out to protect the embroidery.
• Use a pressing cloth: Place a clean cloth or pressing cloth over the embroidery before ironing to prevent direct contact with the iron.  
• Low heat: Use a low heat setting on your iron and avoid using steam, as moisture can damage the threads.  

Storing

• • Fold or hang properly: Store embroidered clothing folded neatly or hung on padded hangers to maintain its shape.
  • Avoid direct sunlight: Do not store embroidered clothing in direct sunlight, as it can cause colors to fade.