Mato & Hash Blog
How to Care for Your Custom Embroidery Apparel: 5 Tips
How to Care for Your Embroidery Apparel: 5 Tips for Keeping Your Embroidered Pieces Looking Great
Embroidery adds a unique and personal touch to any piece of clothing, transforming simple garments into works of art. However, the beauty and integrity of embroidered apparel depend significantly on how well they are cared for. Proper care ensures that your embroidered items remain vibrant and intact for years. Here are some essential tips to help you care for your embroidery apparel.
- Washing Embroidered Clothing
Gentle is Key: Always opt for hand washing or a gentle cycle in the washing machine. Use cold water to prevent colors from bleeding or fading.
Mild Detergent: Choose a mild detergent. Harsh chemicals can damage the threads and fabric.
Avoiding Distortion: Turn the garment inside out before washing. This prevents the embroidery from rubbing against other items and helps maintain its shape.
Special Treatment for Hand Embroidery: For hand-embroidered items, extra gentleness is required. It’s often best to hand wash them gently in lukewarm water.
- Drying the Right Way
Air Dry: Whenever possible, air dry your embroidered clothing. Avoid wringing out the water, as this can distort the embroidery.
No Direct Sunlight: If you air dry outside, avoid direct sunlight which can cause colors to fade.
Avoid the Dryer: It’s generally recommended to avoid the dryer. If you must use it, use a low heat setting and remove the garment promptly.
- Ironing Embroidered Apparel
Iron on the Reverse Side: Always iron embroidered clothing on the reverse side. This prevents the embroidery from being flattened and keeps its texture intact.
Use a Pressing Cloth: Place a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric. This adds an extra layer of protection.
Avoid Steam: Steam can cause certain types of thread to shrink or warp. Use a dry iron when possible.
- Storing Embroidered Clothing
Flat Storage: Store embroidered items flat if possible, as hanging can stretch the fabric and distort the embroidery.
Avoid Folding on the Embroidery: If you must fold the garment, try not to fold directly on the embroidered area to avoid creases.
Protect from Moths and Humidity: Keep your embroidered apparel in a cool, dry place, away from moths and dampness.
- Handling Stains and Repairs
Spot Clean Carefully: If your embroidered hats or t-shirts get a stain, spot clean it carefully using a gentle stain remover. Be sure to test the remover on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Professional Help for Repairs: If the embroidery itself gets damaged, it might be best to seek professional help, especially for intricate or valuable pieces.
Conclusion
Embroidered apparel can be a cherished part of your wardrobe or a meaningful keepsake. With these tips, you can ensure that your embroidered pieces remain as stunning and vibrant as the day you got them. Remember, the key is gentle care and attention to detail. With the right care, your embroidery can continue to add a special touch to your attire for a long time.
