Hand Washing: A Gentle Approach to Caring for Your Garments
If laundry feels like a tedious chore, then the thought of hand washing may seem like a daunting punishment. Who has the time—or the space—to soak and meticulously lay out delicate garments to dry? While heading to the dry cleaner might appear to be the most convenient solution, fabric experts argue that hand washing the clothes you cherish can often be a superior choice. It’s gentler on fabrics, aiding in their longevity, and can be surprisingly simple. Here’s how to master the art of hand washing.
Read the Care Label Before You Begin
Before diving into the washing process, it’s crucial to examine the care label of your garment. A “dry-clean only” tag doesn’t automatically mean you must visit a dry cleaner, but understanding the fabric is essential. Certain knits and semi-synthetic materials, such as rayon, may not react well to water. If you’re uncertain, test a small, inconspicuous area—like an inner seam—by wetting it, allowing it to dry, and observing any changes in color or texture. “In some cases, gentle hand washing can still lead to shrinkage,” cautions Corinna Williams, co-founder of Celsious, a sustainable laundry service based in Brooklyn. If the label is too faded to read or is missing entirely, proceed with caution.
Treat Stains Promptly
“I swear by Shout,” states artist Laila Gohar, co-founder of the tableware company Gohar World. Her confidence in its stain-removing abilities allows her to cook in an all-white outfit, spraying away inevitable stains at night rather than tackling entire garments later. For her clients’ pieces, Patricia Voto, founder of the New York-based women’s wear brand One Of, recommends Grandma’s Secret Spot Remover. Williams, on the other hand, prefers Sonett’s stain removal spray, which she notes is “safe for delicate materials.”
Select a Gentle Detergent
Voto favors the fragrance-free baby laundry detergent from the luxury brand The Laundress, which recently relaunched; she appreciates that the formula “washes out of garments really easily.” Similarly, Alissa Zachary, founder of the hand-washable women’s wear brand High Sport, uses Woolite for her sweaters and Dreft baby detergent for all other items. Williams suggests the Swedish brand Tangent Garment Care’s yuzu detergent for delicate fabrics, and she also recommends using a pH-neutral shampoo for hand washing silk, wool, or cashmere.
Wash in Lukewarm Water
As you prepare to wash, fill your sink with lukewarm water. Add your chosen detergent while the water is running, or, if using a basin, mix the detergent in with the water before introducing your garment to avoid direct contact. “Soak your item for about 10 minutes, then gently stir or massage the fabric,” Williams advises. Be mindful to use slow and controlled motions, avoiding any pulling or stretching. “Continue soaking for an additional 30 minutes. Afterward, drain the sink and refill it with lukewarm water, repeating the rinsing process until the water runs clear.” To conserve water, consider washing multiple garments at once in the same sink or basin. Zachary also reminds us, “the beauty of hand washing lies in the ability to spot-treat. For instance, if you need to clean just the rear of your pants, you don’t have to wet the entire garment.”
