Contemporary fashion garments are made from a wide variety of natural and man-made fabrics. Generally speaking, natural fibres (wool, cotton, linen, silk) are highly absorbent and breathable. Garments made from some natural fibres can be less consistent in their weave, more difficult to produce and therefore are often more expensive. Man-made fabrics are woven from artificial fibres that are the by-product of chemical industries, specially processed for fabrics. They are often much easier to care for, less likely to wrinkle or lose shape, are more durable, stronger, quick drying and cheaper. Inclusion of a man-made fibre in a fabric made from natural fibres can introduce all these important qualities into the garment, as well as reduce its cost.


Fabric and garment care instructions
All garments come with fabric care instructions and are shown on a label stitched into the garment or on a swing tag or packaging. Read the instructions on each individual garment carefully before cleaning your garment so as to keep it in best condition and to extend its life.


Reads Online have provided you with a brief care instruction for garments however you will need to inspect the care instructions on the garment you purchase and follow those specific instructions. Read the instructions carefully before cleaning your garment and remove stains as soon as possible. Some garments actually improve with some laundering and become more comfortable, but as a general rule do not over launder or over dry-clean your fashion garments. Be especially careful when handling them wet, dry them carefully and be extremely careful when ironing. Use a pressing cloth whenever possible.


If in doubt, email [email protected] or contact a quality dry cleaner or specialist and ask for advice on the special care needs of your garment.

Handbag care information

Handbags come in all materials from leather to polyurethane. Here are some tips on caring for your handbag:

Storing: Put in a dust bag or soft pillowslip, fill with bubble wrap to retain their shape, do not stack and make sure it is clean when you store it away. Keep in a cool dry place and do not hang by the straps of the handbag.Cleaning: Read the recommended instructions before cleaning. Leather and polyurethane bags should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Always text in a place that is not visible to ensure you do not damage your handbag.


Care Instructions Disclaimer
Reads Online does not take responsibility if the individual and unique care instructions are not read and followed when cleaning the garment you have purchased. Some products do not have care instructions such as shoes, fashion accessories and gifts. Please refer to specialists, the manufacturer or online resources for a particular product.Contemporary fashion garments are made from a wide variety of natural and man-made fabrics. Generally speaking, natural fibres (wool, cotton, linen, silk) are highly absorbent and breathable. Garments made from some natural fibres can be less consistent in their weave, more difficult to produce and therefore are often more expensive.

 

Fabric Types

Cotton - Cotton is a natural cellulose fibre made from the cotton plant. It is a strong fibre like linen and in its natural state it is inelastic. Cotton has exceptional absorbency, making it extremely comfortable.

Linen - Linen is a natural cellulose fibre made from flax plants. It is very strong and is stronger when wet than when dry. 

Modal - Modal is a man-made bio-fibre, its main ingredient is tree pulp.  It is highly absorbent and like cotton is highly suitable for dying.  It is a type of rayon and shares some of its qualities, such as durability, and resistance to both shrinkage and fading. Modal can be cared for just like cotton with normal washing and ironing. 

Nylon (polyamide) - A man-made by-product of coal gas manufacture, nylon is a strong and elastic fibre and is usually wrinkle-resistant (except in very light weights). It loses its strength when wet but is very quick drying. Its lack of absorbency can make it uncomfortable to wear.

Polyester - A man-made by-product from petrol manufacturing, polyester is a strong, elastic, wrinkle-resistant fibre which retains its strength when wet. Because polyester is non-absorbent and a poor conductor it may feel hot and clammy in hot weather. Under certain conditions it allows static electricity to develop.

Ramie - Ramie is a natural fibre made from a flax-like plant. Ramie is similar to linen but is much coarser and stiffer and is mostly used for heavier, stiffer garments.

Silk - Silk is a natural protein fibre and is produced naturally by silk worm moth larvae. It has a very smooth handle and is essentially a strong fibre. Silk loses strength when wet and must be laundered carefully in cold or warm water. Hot water will yellow or dull the fibre’s natural lustre.

Viscose (rayon) - A man-made fibre is made from cellulose from a plant. It is reasonably strong except when wet so care must be taken when washing, wringing should be especially avoided. Viscose is popular because of its smooth, lustrous feel and easy drape, and its absorbent nature makes it comfortable to wear.

Wool - A natural fibre and comes from the fleece of a sheep. The fibre ends can be prickly against the skin, although modern fabrics made from very fine wool fibres are less prickly and indeed many have no prickle at all. Wool is warm and an elastic fibre and does not wrinkle easily and is extremely absorbent. Wool is not a strong fibre and is at its weakest when wet and garments can lose shape. Wash and dry with care. Wool can be ironed with a press cloth before completely dry to remove any wrinkles. Use of a press cloth will stop the fibres becoming shiny.

Leather Care

Shoes and bags that are cleaned REGULARLY the right way and are looked after well will last longer, look better, retain their shape and remain water-resistant. Care for your shoes and you will extend their life and maintain their as-new appearance over the years.
Some handy tips:

It is best to visit your local boot maker to check how to care for your shoes or leather products

To dry shoes, put them in a warm airy place. Never dry over an open fire or any artificial heat source.

Brush off dirt and debris with a soft cloth or brush. Consider doing this every time after wearing your shoes. 

Polish your shoes at least once a month or whenever needed (cream polish is best for maintaining leather).

Take special care with suede or nubuck shoes. Do not use products designed for regular leather.

Sign Up for 10% OFF