Washing
Cold Wash (≤30°C)
- Use water temperature at or below 30°C to prevent shrinkage and color fading
- Ideal for preserving fabric integrity and graphic prints
- Use mild, color-safe detergent
- Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals
- Do not soak garments for extended periods
Machine Wash
- Use cold or warm water (max 30°C)
- Select gentle or normal cycle depending on fabric weight
- Separate dark and light colors
- Close all zippers and fastenings before washing
- Do not overload the machine
Hand Wash
- Use cold water and gentle detergent
- Gently agitate without twisting or wringing
- Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear
- Press out excess water gently—do not wring
- Recommended for delicate prints and specialty fabrics
Gentle / Delicate Wash
- Use the delicate or gentle cycle on your machine
- Cold water only
- Minimal agitation to protect fabric and prints
- Use a mesh laundry bag for extra protection
- Ideal for garments with embellishments or fine fabrics
Inside-Out Washing
- Turn garments inside out before washing
- Protects prints, graphics, and outer fabric from friction
- Reduces pilling and surface wear
- Preserves color vibrancy
- Recommended for all printed and graphic garments
Drying
Air Dry (Flat)
- Lay garment flat on a clean, dry surface
- Reshape while damp to maintain original form
- Prevents stretching and distortion
- Ideal for heavy knits and structured garments
- Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading
Air Dry (Hang)
- Hang on a sturdy hanger or clothesline
- Ensure garment is evenly distributed to avoid stretching
- Hang in a well-ventilated area
- Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources
- Suitable for most t-shirts and lightweight garments
Tumble Dry (When Allowed)
- Use low heat setting only
- Remove promptly to prevent wrinkles
- Not recommended for printed or graphic garments
- May cause shrinkage—check care label first
- Air drying is always the safer option
Shade Drying
- Dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area
- Protects colors from UV fading
- Prevents fabric degradation from sun exposure
- Essential for dark and vibrant colors
- Recommended for all EKVAAR garments
Ironing
Low Heat Ironing
- Set iron to low or medium heat (max 150°C)
- Iron while garment is slightly damp for best results
- Avoid high heat to prevent fabric damage
- Test on an inconspicuous area first
- Use a pressing cloth for extra protection
Steam Ironing
- Use steam setting on low to medium heat
- Hold iron slightly above fabric for delicate materials
- Do not apply steam directly to prints or graphics
- Effective for removing wrinkles without direct contact
- Keep iron moving to avoid heat spots
Inside-Out Ironing
- Turn garment inside out before ironing
- Protects prints, graphics, and embellishments
- Prevents shine and surface damage
- Use low heat and avoid direct pressure on printed areas
- Mandatory for all screen-printed and heat-transfer designs
No-Iron Garments
- Some fabrics and prints should never be ironed
- Check care label for iron restrictions
- Use a steamer as an alternative
- Hang immediately after washing to minimize wrinkles
- If ironing is necessary, use a pressing cloth and low heat
Fabric-Specific Care
Cotton & Cotton Blends
- Wash in cold water to prevent shrinkage
- May shrink slightly after first wash—this is normal
- Air dry or tumble dry on low heat
- Iron on medium heat if needed
- Durable and breathable—ideal for everyday wear
Polyester & Synthetic Fabrics
- Wash in cold water on gentle cycle
- Resistant to shrinkage and wrinkles
- Air dry recommended—avoid high heat
- Do not iron directly on prints
- Quick-drying and low-maintenance
Fleece & Terry Fabrics
- Wash inside out in cold water
- Use gentle cycle to preserve softness
- Avoid fabric softeners—they reduce absorbency
- Air dry flat or hang to maintain shape
- Do not iron fleece or terry surfaces
Stretch / Ribbed Components
- Wash in cold water on gentle cycle
- Do not wring or twist—gently press out water
- Air dry flat to prevent stretching
- Avoid high heat and tumble drying
- Reshape while damp to maintain elasticity
Prints & Graphics
Screen Prints
- Wash inside out in cold water
- Avoid abrasive surfaces and friction
- Do not iron directly on print—use inside-out method
- Air dry to preserve print quality
- Limit washing frequency to extend print life
Heat Transfers
- Wash inside out in cold water only
- Never iron directly on transfer
- Avoid high heat and tumble drying
- Do not use bleach or harsh detergents
- Handle gently to prevent peeling or cracking
Specialty Finishes
- Includes embroidery, foil, puff prints, and embellishments
- Hand wash or use delicate cycle
- Air dry only—no heat exposure
- Do not iron over specialty areas
- Store carefully to avoid crushing or damage
Storage
Short-Term Storage
- Fold or hang garments based on fabric type
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Ensure garments are clean and completely dry before storing
- Use breathable storage containers or hangers
- Avoid overcrowding to prevent wrinkles
Long-Term Storage
- Clean garments thoroughly before long-term storage
- Use acid-free tissue paper for delicate items
- Store in breathable garment bags—avoid plastic
- Keep in a cool, dry, dark environment
- Check periodically for moisture, pests, or odors
Seasonal Storage
- Rotate wardrobe seasonally to extend garment life
- Store off-season items in breathable containers
- Use cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter pests
- Avoid damp basements or hot attics
- Refold or rehang periodically to prevent creases
Long-Term Care
Shape Retention
- Avoid over-washing—wash only when necessary
- Air dry flat or hang to maintain original shape
- Do not wring or twist garments
- Store properly to prevent stretching or distortion
- Rotate garments to avoid excessive wear on favorites
Color Longevity
- Wash in cold water to preserve color vibrancy
- Turn garments inside out before washing
- Use color-safe detergents without bleach
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure when drying or storing
- Separate dark and light colors during washing
Fabric Aging
- Natural wear and softening over time is normal
- Gentle care extends fabric life and appearance
- Avoid harsh chemicals and excessive heat
- Rotate wear to distribute aging evenly
- Embrace the character that develops with proper care