Your guide to cotton care

While cotton is known for being easy to care for, it still benefits from thoughtful handling. Proper washing, drying, and storage help prevent shrinkage, maintain colour, and extend the life of your garments. This guide offers practical steps to ensure your organic cotton pieces remain staples in your wardrobe for years to come.

Understanding organic cotton

Cotton is one of the world’s most widely used natural fibres. Organic cotton, however, stands apart for the way it is cultivated and the qualities it retains. Grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilisers, it supports healthier ecosystems and often results in stronger fibre integrity.

Organic cotton’s key qualities include:

Softness - naturally smooth against the skin, making it comfortable even for sensitive skin.
Breathability - allows airflow, helping regulate body temperature in all seasons.
Durability - with the right care, cotton garments can last many years.
Hypoallergenic - free from chemical residues, it is less likely to irritate the skin.

That said, cotton is a fibre that can shrink, fade, or lose shape if handled carelessly. With mindful care, these risks are reduced, allowing garments to retain both comfort and character.

Washing organic cotton

General guidelines

Always check the garment’s care label for specific instructions.
Machine wash in cold water (30°C) on a gentle cycle, or hand wash for delicate pieces.
Use a mild, pH-neutral detergent. Harsh chemicals and bleach should be avoided, as they weaken fibres and strip colour.
Turn garments inside out before washing to reduce surface wear and minimise colour fading.
Wash dark or brightly coloured items separately to prevent dye transfer.

Shrinkage considerations

Cotton fibres naturally contract when exposed to heat, making shrinkage a common concern.
Wash in cold water and avoid high spin cycles to protect fibres.
Looser knits (like jerseys) are especially prone to shrinkage; handle them with extra care.

Afar garments are pre-washed to minimise shrinkage, but mindful laundering will help preserve their shape further.

Frequency

Unlike wool, cotton does not have antibacterial properties, so it benefits from regular washing after wear. However, many garments can simply be aired between uses to refresh them and reduce unnecessary laundering.

Colour care

Whites: Wash separately and allow to dry in natural light to maintain brightness.
Colours: Dry in the shade or indoors, as extended sun exposure can fade fibres.
Avoid soaking coloured garments, as this may cause uneven dye release.

Drying organic cotton

Drying plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality of organic cotton.

Air dry whenever possible: Shake garments after washing to release creases, gently reshape seams, and hang or lay flat to dry.
Flat drying for heavy items: Knitwear such as jumpers or sweatshirts should be laid flat to prevent stretching.
Avoid high heat: If using a dryer, choose a low temperature setting to reduce the risk of shrinkage.
Mind the sun: Sunlight naturally brightens white cotton but can cause colours to fade. Choose shaded, well-ventilated areas for coloured pieces.

By treating drying as part of the care process, you preserve both the strength and appearance of the fabric.

Ironing and steaming cotton

Cotton is prone to creasing, but it also responds well to heat and steam.

Reduce wrinkles early: Gently shake garments out of the wash and hang them immediately to prevent deep creases.
Iron while slightly damp: Use medium to high heat depending on the weight of the fabric. Damp fibres smooth more easily.
Steam for convenience: A handheld steamer is a quick way to refresh cotton shirts or trousers.
Protect delicate pieces: Iron on the reverse side of the fabric, or place a damp cotton cloth between the iron and the garment.

For many cotton pieces, particularly T-shirts or casual wear, steaming or simply embracing a relaxed finish may be sufficient.

Stain treatment for cotton

Spills and stains are inevitable, but cotton can be resilient if treated promptly.

Act quickly: Blot stains as soon as possible with a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing, which can set the mark.
Spot treat: Use a gentle stain remover or a simple paste of baking soda and water. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
Avoid bleach: Especially for coloured cotton, bleach will strip dye and damage fibres.
Pre-treat before washing: Work on the stain before placing the garment in the machine to increase the chances of removal.

By addressing stains immediately, you not only protect the appearance of your garment but also prolong its life.

Storing cotton garments

Storage is straightforward but important for cotton garments.

Knitwear: Fold and store flat to avoid stretching.
Woven items: Hang shirts, trousers, or dresses on wide, wooden hangers to maintain shape.
Breathable storage: Use cotton or linen garment bags for long-term storage, avoiding plastic which traps moisture.
Environment: Store in a cool, dry place with good airflow. Overcrowding your wardrobe can cause deep creases and stress seams.

When stored properly, cotton garments will remain fresh and ready to wear across seasons.

Care and repair with Afar

Caring for your organic cotton pieces is only part of the journey. At Afar, we believe in repairing garments as well as caring for them, ensuring they remain part of your wardrobe for the long term.

Through our Care & Repair Guarantee we offer a complimentary first minor repair on all garments within 12 months of purchase, from resewing seams to reattaching buttons. This quiet promise reflects our belief that clothing should be lived in, cared for, and maintained, not replaced.

By combining regular care with timely repair, your organic cotton garments will continue to serve as reliable companions for many seasons.

Organic cotton over time

With thoughtful care, organic cotton maintains its comfort and durability for many years. Over time, garments may soften, colours may mellow, and fabric may ease into a familiar drape, all signs of natural ageing that enhance their character.

Unlike synthetic fibres that break down quickly, cotton retains its integrity, offering a balance of softness and strength. Embracing these gradual shifts means recognising the beauty of a garment that evolves with you.

From our studio to your wardrobe, with love, John and Jana