At Zelax, we believe that proper care extends the life of your loungewear. Follow these simple yet effective tips to keep your garments soft, fresh, and comfortable.
1. Washing Your Loungewear
Caring for your garments begins with how you wash them. For best results:
- Use cold water and a gentle cycle to prevent shrinking and fading.
- Opt for mild, eco-friendly detergents that are free from harsh chemicals.
- Turn your loungewear inside out before washing to protect colors and prints.
- Wash similar fabrics and colors together to avoid dye transfer.
- Limit the use of fabric softeners; they can build up on natural fibers and reduce breathability.
Recommended Frequency:
- Wash loungewear every 2–3 wears unless heavily soiled.
2. Drying Guidelines
Air drying is your garment’s best friend:
- Lay flat on a clean towel to prevent stretching and maintain shape.
- If you prefer machine drying, use a low heat or delicate setting.
- Avoid hanging damp garments as it can cause fabric distortion.
- Keep them out of direct sunlight, which can cause fading over time.
Pro Tip: Use dryer balls to reduce drying time and prevent clumping.
3. Ironing & Steaming
Keep your loungewear looking smooth without compromising the fabric:
- Choose a low heat setting for ironing; high heat can weaken fibers.
- Place a cloth between the iron and the garment to avoid direct heat.
- Steam is a gentler alternative for removing wrinkles. Hold the steamer 6–8 inches away from the fabric.
- Avoid steam on delicate fabrics like silk or lace.
4. Storing Your Loungewear
Proper storage can significantly extend the life of your garments:
- Fold them neatly instead of hanging to prevent stretching.
- Store in breathable fabric bags if not worn frequently.
- Avoid plastic bags as they trap moisture, which can lead to mildew.
- Add cedar balls or lavender sachets to repel moths and keep them smelling fresh.
Tip: Keep your storage area cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight.
5. Special Care for Different Fabrics
Each fabric has its own personality—here’s how to treat them right:
- Cotton: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low, and iron if necessary. Avoid bleach.
- Bamboo: Cold wash and air dry to maintain its natural softness. Avoid fabric softeners.
- Silk: Hand wash in cold water with a gentle detergent or dry clean. Lay flat to dry.
- Modal: Machine wash cold and tumble dry low. Iron on a low setting if needed.
- Lace: Use a mesh laundry bag and a delicate cycle. Lay flat to dry.
6. Tackling Stains with Care
Accidents happen, but stains don’t have to last:
- Treat stains as soon as possible with cold water—hot water can set stains.
- Dab, don’t rub; rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibers.
- Use a mild stain remover and test on a hidden area first.
- Soak oily stains in baking soda before washing to absorb grease.
Avoid: Bleach, especially on natural and delicate fabrics.
7. Refreshing Between Wears
You don’t need to wash your loungewear after every use. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Hang in a well-ventilated area overnight to air out.
- Spritz lightly with a fabric refresher or a mix of water and a few drops of essential oil.
- Use a handheld steamer to sanitize and refresh the fabric.
Tip: Store with scented sachets to maintain a clean scent.
8. Common Care Mistakes to Avoid
- Too Much Detergent: More detergent doesn’t mean cleaner clothes; it can leave residue that attracts dirt.
- Overloading the Machine: Prevents water and detergent from circulating properly.
- Hot Water: Can shrink and weaken fibers, especially in natural fabrics.
- Skipping the Rinse: Detergent residue can irritate the skin and wear down fabric over time.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use bleach on my loungewear?
A: We recommend avoiding bleach, even on white fabrics, as it can weaken fibers. Use oxygen-based brighteners instead.
Q: How can I prevent pilling?
A: Wash inside out on a gentle cycle, and avoid high heat when drying.
Q: What’s the best way to remove odors without washing?
A: Sprinkle baking soda on the fabric, let it sit for 15 minutes, then shake it off and air out.