How to wash and care for your clothes according to the material so they last longer

Why material determines care

Each fabric has its own characteristics and reacts differently to washing, heat, and drying. Improper care can shrink, deform, or irreparably damage your favorite pieces. Here's a complete guide by material to make your clothes last for years.

1. Polyester — the queen of streetwear fabrics

Polyester is the most used material in streetwear: lightweight, durable, and easy to care for.

  • Washing: 30°C maximum on a delicate cycle — polyester does not tolerate high temperatures well
  • Drying: air dry preferably — machine drying can cause pilling
  • Ironing: at low temperature or with steam, always inside out
  • Tip: turn your clothes inside out before washing to preserve colors and prints
  • Avoid: hot water, high-temperature machine drying, bleach

2. Cotton — the comfortable classic

Cotton is natural, breathable, and very popular for t-shirts and sweats.

  • Washing: 30-40°C according to the label — cotton can shrink at high temperatures
  • Drying: flat or on a hanger to prevent deformation — avoid machine drying
  • Ironing: tolerates ironing well at medium temperature
  • Tip: wash in cold water to prevent shrinkage and preserve colors
  • Avoid: very hot water (shrinkage), repeated machine drying

3. Corduroy — the trendy fabric to pamper

Corduroy is delicate and requires special attention to maintain its ribs and velvety appearance.

  • Washing: 30°C maximum on a delicate cycle or by hand
  • Drying: always flat, never machine dry or on a hanger (deformation)
  • Ironing: inside out at low temperature, or with steam without direct contact
  • Tip: gently brush in the direction of the ribs after washing to revive the appearance
  • Avoid: rubbing, hot water, machine drying

4. Mesh and Flyknit — for sneakers and sportswear

Mesh and Flyknit materials are ultra-breathable but fragile.

  • Washing: hand wash in cold water with a mild detergent
  • Drying: air dry, flat, away from any heat source
  • Ironing: not recommended — use a steamer if necessary
  • Tip: use a laundry bag if machine washing on a very delicate cycle
  • Avoid: machine washing without a bag, hot water, machine drying

5. Faux leather — for jackets, pouches, and jewelry

Faux leather is widely used in accessories and some streetwear jackets.

  • Cleaning: wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap — never machine wash
  • Drying: air dry, away from heat and direct sunlight (cracking)
  • Care: apply a nourishing product for faux leather regularly
  • Storage: away from light, stuffed with tissue paper to maintain shape
  • Avoid: washing machine, direct heat, aggressive chemicals

Universal tips to extend the life of your clothes

  • Wash less often: air your clothes between wears rather than washing them systematically
  • Always sort: dark colors with darks, light colors with lights
  • Use mild detergents: without bleach or aggressive softeners
  • Repair quickly: a small snag treated immediately prevents irreparable damage
  • Store properly: away from light, humidity, and heat

Conclusion

Properly caring for your clothes according to their material will extend their lifespan and preserve your investment. A few simple steps are enough to keep your pieces looking new season after season. Discover our men's collection, our women's collection, and our sneakers to complete your streetwear wardrobe.

Back to blog