Summer materials: how to care for them in an eco-friendly and conscious way

With the arrival of warm weather, nature and style can coexist perfectly, thanks to summer fabrics like linen, hemp, nettle, TENCEL™ Lyocell, recycled and organic cotton. Each fiber brings with it environmental sustainability and unique characteristics: knowing how to care for them is essential to make them last longer, without sacrificing comfort and respecting the environment.

Linen

Obtained from the flax plant, it is natural, biodegradable, breathable, and cool: perfect for summer.
Optimal care: delicate machine wash in cold or warm water (maximum 30°C), without harsh spin cycles; use a mild detergent; air dry preferably. Ironing while still slightly damp at a moderately high temperature reduces creases. It tends to crease; this is normal and has its own reason.

Hemp

Robust, hypoallergenic, breathable fibers that improve with every wash: from stiff to softer over time.

Eco-friendly care: Machine wash cold or delicate cycle (maximum 30-40°C), natural soap, avoid chlorinated bleaches; air dry or dry at low temperature; iron at medium temperature. It tends to shrink slightly initially and becomes more comfortable after a few washes.

Nettle

An exceptional material, highly sustainable thanks to pesticide-free cultivation and low water consumption.
Recommended care: Hand wash or delicate machine wash with water up to 30°C; air dry, away from direct sunlight; iron at low temperature; avoid intense rubbing and harsh bleaches.

TENCEL™ / Lyocell (from eucalyptus cellulose)

Regenerated fiber derived from cellulose, biodegradable and uses less water than traditional cotton.
Optimal care: Hand wash preferred, or machine wash on a delicate cycle with cold or warm water (maximum 30°C) and a protective bag; Avoid high temperatures to prevent shrinkage (often 3 to 5%). Dry flat or hang in the shade, without using the dryer; iron at low heat, without steam, and with a cloth between the iron and the fabric. Avoid fabric softeners.

Recycled cotton

Derived from pre- or post-consumer waste, it drastically reduces the use of water, pesticides, and soil compared to conventional cotton. It is an ethical choice, but with shorter and more delicate fibers.
Recommended care: Machine wash cold (max 30°C) on a gentle cycle with a small load; dry naturally, avoiding the dryer to avoid stressing the fibers; iron at low heat. To increase its lifespan, wash only when necessary and with gentle, eco-friendly detergents.

Organic cotton

Sustainably grown, without pesticides or GMOs, GOTS or Oeko-Tex certified, it is machine washable and versatile.
Gentle care: Wash at up to 30°C for colors (40°C for light-colored items), gentle cycle; air dry is preferable; iron at low or medium heat; wash colors separately to avoid fading. Tends to shrink slightly.

Tips:

Follow the washing instructions on your garment’s care label. Air drying is always the most eco-friendly choice: it reduces energy consumption, preserves fibers, and extends the life of your garments. In summer, ironing is often unnecessary: many natural fabrics like linen and hemp soften with use, and their worn texture is part of their sustainable appeal.

This article is from the June edition of our free monthly e-magazine. You can also receive:

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Cover photo: freepik