A STEP-BY-STEP CARE GUIDE FOR COTTON FABRICS

Why cotton is everyone’s favourite & it’s care guide                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Cotton: the world’s most cherished faic, soft to touch, eathable like a second skin, and incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a crisp white shirt, a cozy dress, or your favorite printed kurta,cotton is that one faic that sits comfortably in every closet. But while we all adore the natural&comfort of cotton, do we truly know how to care for it?

We often assume that cotton is a “tough” fabric that can endure any wash cycle or heat setting. However, even the most durable textiles need thoughtful handling to maintain their integrity, color, and lifespan—especially when we're talking about pure cotton and handcrafted block-printed pieces. Let’s break the myth of “cotton is carefree” and explore a simple yet powerful care guide to keep your cotton garments looking beautiful and fresh for years to come.

HOW TO CARE FOR COTTON FABRICS?

1. Read the Label—It’s Not Just There for Show

First things first—every cotton garment is unique. While most cotton items are machine washable, some might need a gentler touch. Always check the care label for specific instructions. Is it hand-wash only? Can it go in the dryer? These small indicators go a long way in preventing accidental damage.

Print Tip: Hand-block printed fabrics often come with special wash instructions—these are
not optional! Follow them religiously.

2. Cold Water Is Your Cotton’s Best Friend

Washing your cotton garments in cold water not only preserves the fabric’s strength but also protects the colors from fading. Hot water may be great for sanitizing towels, but for everyday clothing and especially delicate prints, cold water is gentler and far less damaging.

Fun Fact: Just like how our hair retains more shine and strength when washed with cold water, cotton fibres too hold their shape and shade better this way.

3. Go Mild With Detergents

Would you use a harsh chemical soap on your face? Hopefully not. Think of your clothes the same way. Choose a pH-neutral or mild detergent to prevent fibre damage and fading. Avoid bleach or any detergent with strong enzymes or brighteners—especially for natural and printed cottons.

Eco Hack: Plant-based detergents not only clean gently but are also biodegradable—good for your clothes and the planet.

4. Flip It Inside Out Before Washing

It might seem like a small step, but turning your clothes inside out can significantly protect the surface of your garment from friction, fading, and lint accumulation. This also safeguards any buttons, tassels, or block-printed designs from direct exposure.

Print Tip: For hand-block prints, always wash them inside out to maintain the detailing and keep the colors vibrant longer.

5. Be Gentle with the Drying Process

Cotton has a tendency to shrink or deform if exposed to high heat. Always air-dry cotton garments in the shade to retain their size, structure, and print. If you must use a dryer, opt for the lowest heat setting.

Pro Tip: Drying in the shade prevents sun-bleaching and keeps your prints looking vivid.

1. Soak Before the First Wash  Soak the garment in cold water with a spoonful of salt for about 30 minutes. This helps set the colors and reduces chances of bleeding. 2. Wash Separately or with Similar Shades Block-printed items may release excess dye initially. Washing them separately (or with similar colors) will prevent color transfer to other clothes. 3. Handle Like You Care Avoid rubbing, scrubbing, or twisting. Gentle pressing between two towels works well to remove excess water.

What About Dry Cleaning? Can you really dry clean block printed fabrics?

Dry cleaning can be a safe route for hand-block printed garments—especially those with
intricate work or layered dyes. It uses special solvents that clean without immersing the fabric in water, thus minimizing shrinkage, bleeding, or fabric damage. While it’s not a daily solution, dry cleaning once in a while can preserve the life of your special cotton pieces.

At The Printroots, Sustainability Starts with Respect

Each of our pieces is created with care—from sourcing 100% cotton to working with skilled artisans who carry forward the centuries-old tradition of block printing. Every garment has a heartbeat. It’s been touched by hands, steeped in culture, and dyed in stories.
Sustainability for us isn’t a buzzword; it’s a promise. By encouraging mindful consumption and educating our community on proper garment care, we’re ensuring that your clothes last longer —and that the planet breathes a little easier.Because caring for cotton is more than just a laundry task—it’s an act of love for your wardrobe,your heritage, and your Earth.