A Step-by-Step Guide to Safely Hand-Washing Towel-Embroidered Garments
Pre-wash Check: Test for colorfastness by gently wiping an inconspicuous corner of the embroidery on the inside of the garment with a damp towel; proceed with washing only if no color transfers. Turn the garment inside out so the towel embroidery faces inward, preventing the loops from snagging or catching on anything.
Soaking: Prepare cool water (below 30°C) and add 5ml of neutral detergent (such as baby laundry detergent or a wool/silk-specific wash) per liter of water; a small amount of salt can also be added to help set the color. Submerge the garment completely and soak for 5–15 minutes; do not soak for an extended period, as this can cause the base fabric to stiffen and the embroidery threads to loosen.
Gentle Cleaning: Avoid vigorous rubbing or scrubbing with a stiff brush throughout the process. Instead, use your fingertips to gently press the stained areas, allowing the water to carry away the dirt. For stubborn localized stains, use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush in the direction of the embroidery loops-do not brush against the grain or rub the embroidered design itself.
Thorough Rinsing: Rinse the garment repeatedly under running water until all traces of foam are gone. This prevents detergent residue from remaining in the embroidery stitches, which could otherwise cause the fabric to yellow and the threads to become brittle over time.
Dewatering and Air-Drying: Do not wring or twist the garment after washing. Lay it flat on a clean, dry towel, roll them up together, and press gently to absorb most of the excess moisture. Then, unfold the garment and lay it flat to air-dry in a cool, well-ventilated area. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this can cause the embroidery threads to fade and the loops to flatten or lose their shape.