How to Care for Natural Fabrics
At Ecolena, we only stock clothing made from natural fibres — linen, wool, alpaca, cashmere, possum and more. With the right care, these garments will outlast anything else in your wardrobe. Here's everything you need to know.
The Linen Guide
One of the world's oldest natural fibres — and one of the most rewarding to own.
Made from the fibres of the flax plant, linen has been used for thousands of years. It is breathable in summer, naturally insulating in cooler months, and — remarkably — gets softer, more beautiful, and more comfortable with every single wash.
Linen
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First Wash
Add a cup of table salt to your first wash to set deep colours and prevent dye from running. Do this once only.
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Washing
Machine wash on a gentle or delicate cycle using cold water. Wash dark colours separately. Use a mild natural detergent.
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Drying
Hang or lay flat to dry in the shade. Avoid the tumble dryer — heat can cause linen to shrink slightly.
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No Ironing Needed
The soft, relaxed drape of linen is part of its character and appeal. Gentle crumples are the look — not a flaw. If you prefer crisp linen, iron while slightly damp.
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Wash Less — It's Better
Linen is naturally resistant to bacteria and odour. Airing between wears is often enough. The less you wash it, the longer it lasts — and the softer and more beautiful it becomes.
"Once you wear linen, you don't look back."
The Knitwear Guide
Merino, lambswool, alpaca, cashmere & possum — nature's finest fibres.
Our knitwear collection spans a range of exceptional natural fibres, each with slightly different properties. We always recommend checking your care label first. These are our general guidelines for most natural knitwear.
Knitwear
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Air Between Wears
Natural fibres are breathable and naturally odour-resistant. Airing your knitwear between wears is often all it needs. Wash less — it's better for the garment.
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Washing
Hand wash in cool water with a gentle wool detergent. Some knitwear can use a cold wool machine cycle — always check the label. Avoid enzymes, fabric softeners and harsh detergents.
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Handle With Care
Never rub, wring or twist. Gently press out water or roll in a clean towel. Heat and agitation are the main causes of shrinkage and damage.
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Drying & Reshaping
Always dry flat and reshape the garment while it's still damp. Never hang wet knitwear — it can stretch and distort. Keep away from direct heat and sunlight.
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Storage & Pilling
Store folded in a cool, dry place — never on a hanger. Use cedar or lavender as natural moth repellents. Some pilling is natural and can be gently removed with a fabric comb or shaver.