Natural Fibers
4 Types
Cotton
Characteristics:
- Strong and Durable
- Absorbent
- Cool to wear
- Shrinks in hot water
- Wrinkles easily
Uses:
- Underwear
- Socks
- Shirts/Blouses
- Jeans
- Towels/Sheets
Care:
- Machine Wash
- Tumble dry
- Iron (hot)
Wool
Characteristics:
- Natural Insulator
- Warmest of all Fibers
- Soft and Resilient
- Flame resistant
- Absorbent (more than cotton)
- Shrinks if machine washed or dried (unless chemically treated)
- Affected by moths
Uses:
- Sweaters
- Tailored suits
- Coats
- Blankets
- Upholstery
- Rugs/Carpets
Care:
- Dry clean or hand wash (cool water in mild detergent)
- Do not machine dry
- Iron (cool)
Flax
Characteristics
- Durable and Strong
- Lustrous and smooth
- Comfortable and cool to wear
- Wrinkles easily
- Creases difficult to remove
- Can be expensive
Uses:
- Pants
- Blazers
- Table Linens
- Upholstery
Care:
- Hand wash or dry clean
- Iron while damp
Silk
Characteristics
- Luxurious appearance and feel
- Strongest of all natural fibers
- Drapes nicely
- Expensive
- Easily spots if wet
- Weakens with exposure to sun
Uses:
- Wedding gowns
- Lingerie
- Men's ties
Care:
- Dry clean or hand wash
- Press on wrong side with warm iron