We often forget how delicate our Delicates are: pool chemicals, salt water, sand, high temperatures and sunscreen might damage our favourite summer linens, silks, and bathing suits. Here are a few tips for taking care of your Delicates:

• Linen: despite common belief, linen fares better when washed by hand or in the machine than with dry cleaning. It becomes softer with each washing. It is best washed in tepid or cold and preferably soft water or gentle wash cycles with super-mild detergents. Only use a gentle swishing motion – never wring, twist or scrub the fabric.

• Bathing suits: it is suggested to wash your swimsuit after each time you wear it. Each wash removes dead skin cells, chlorine, and sunscreen. Frequent washing also helps preserve the fabric by removing body oils and perspiration, which stretch spandex. Rinse your swimsuit as soon as possible in cool tap water after each time you wear it. If you have time, allow the suit to soak in cool water for 30 minutes. Soaking will remove most of the chemicals, salt, sand, and body oil that can damage the fabric. For a deeper cleaning refill the sink with cool water, and add 1 teaspoon or less of a gentle liquid laundry detergent, avoid any products that contain conditioner. Air drying will preserve the shape of your clothes and reduce stretch tears. 

• Workout clothes: workout clothes are machine washable, but we recommend using a cold cycle with a little extra detergent. Air-drying spandex and lycra workout clothes maintains elasticity, if you decide to use a dryer, make sure it’s on the lowest setting.

• Silk: dry-cleaning is acceptable for basic silk pieces, however, hand washing is better to help maintain their shape. Hand wash silk in cool or lukewarm water using a small amount of mild detergent dissolved in water. Like most natural fibres, silk doesn’t tolerate changes in temperature, so stick with either cool or warm water throughout the process. Always store silk in a dry dark place to allow the fabric to breathe.

At Bondi Wash we always recommend using natural laundry products as the synthetic ingredients in supermarket brands can have a strong environmental impact.  Many of the chemicals contained in these products are not bio-degradable, therefore there are downstream effects, which can reach the creatures in our option. Our laundry range is sourced 100% from plants. The Delicate Wash is designed for natural fibres such as silk and linen that require a lower ph.