How to Care for Delicate Cotton & Polyamide Fabrics

Typically, cotton and polyamide, which is a type of nylon fiber, are sturdy fabrics that can take abuse. However, certain clothing styles, such as thin fabrics, lace or intricate patterns require more delicate care. These fabrics require special treatment when cleaning to avoid damaging the fabrics. Delicate polyamide and cotton fabrics have their own requirements for cleaning which are different from one another. Use the cleaning method outlined for the specific fabric for best results.

Place the fabric in the washing machine. Add a scoop of laundry detergent designed for delicate fabrics.

Fill the washing machine with warm water. Set the machine to use two rinses and the delicate cycle. Allow the washing machine to run through the cycle until the second rinse cycle.

Pour in about a ¼ cup of fabric softener during the second rinse cycle. Allow the washing machine to complete the cycle.

Place the fabric in the dryer on low heat. Do not use high temperatures. Iron the fabric if necessary, on the wrong side of the fabric using a low heat iron. Do not use a high heat iron or you could damage the fabrics.

Place the delicate cotton in a mesh bag. Place the bag in the washing machine.

Add a scoop of delicate laundry detergent. Set the washing machine to use cool water. Run the washing machine on the delicate cycle.

Hang the clothing to dry from a clothesline or lay flat on a smooth, clean surface. Allow the cotton to dry for several hours until completely dry. Hang or fold the cotton after it is dry.

Iron the cotton using a hot iron if wrinkles appear. Avoid ironing delicate areas, such as lace inserts, to avoid damaging the fabric.