Caring for natural fabric garments

Natural fabrics—like cotton, linen, hemp, and blends of these—don’t just feel better on your skin; they’re also better for the planet. But to keep them looking and feeling their best, you need to treat them with care. These aren’t fast-fashion materials built for a few wears—they’re designed to age gracefully and last for years.

Here’s a practical guide to caring for your natural fabric garments so they stay strong, soft, and soulful.

1. Read the Label—Then Read the Fabric

Care labels provide a baseline, but feel the fabric too. A heavy cotton canvas shirt isn’t the same as a breezy cotton-linen blend. Denser weaves can tolerate more agitation, while looser ones need gentler handling.

Pro tip: When in doubt, go gentler. Natural fabrics reward kindness.

2. Wash Less, Air More

Natural fibres like hemp, cotton, and linen are naturally breathable and antimicrobial. They don’t trap odour the way synthetics do.

• Air out between wears

• Spot clean stains instead of full washes

• Only wash when needed—it saves water and reduces fibre breakdown

3. Use Cold Water and Gentle Detergent

Cold water protects the fibres, prevents shrinkage, and reduces energy use. Always opt for:

• Mild, plant-based 

• detergents

• No bleach or fabric softeners (they weaken natural fibres)

• A gentle cycle or hand wash

4. Dry Naturally (But Not in Harsh Sun)

• Line drying is ideal—but harsh Indian sun can fade fabric fast. Dry inside-out or in the shade to preserve colour and texture.
• Avoid tumble drying unless the care label says it's safe, and even then, use a low setting.

5. Store Smartly

• Fold garments instead of hanging heavy ones that may stretch

• Store in breathable cotton garment bags

• Avoid sealed plastic covers that trap moisture and encourage mildew

Add dried neem leaves or lavender sachets to keep moths away naturally.

6. Embrace the Wrinkle, Avoid the Burn

Wrinkling is a natural part of wearing real, untreated fabric—especially linen and cotton flax.

• Use a warm iron (not hot) or a steamer

• Iron when slightly damp for best results

• Avoid pressing too hard and flattening the fabric’s natural character

7. Repair, Don’t Replace

Natural fabrics wear in—not out. A fraying edge, a worn collar, or a faded elbow patch only adds to their charm.

• Learn simple hand repairs

• Reinforce seams or elbows when wear begins

• Don’t be afraid to show the journey—visible mending is a badge of pride

A Relationship, Not a Transaction

Caring for natural garments isn’t a chore—it’s a quiet ritual. It’s an acknowledgment of the people, processes, and planet that gave you this piece.

At The Rugged Soul, we believe in creating garments that live with you—not just for you. And that begins with care.

So wash slow. Wear often. And let every thread tell a story worth keeping.

Because when you care for what you wear, it lasts. And when it lasts, it means more.