11.5 Factors Affecting Fabric Care

. Factors Affecting Fabric Care The selection, use, and care of fabrics depend on many factors. Fibre content, yarn structure, fabric construction, colour application and finishing are the important factors considered for the product. Each type of fabric has its own individual characteristics and hence needs specific care. Fibres of which fabrics are made influence their care requirements, as shown in Table . Table : Fibre properties that affect care and maintenance of fabrics Fibre Properties Care requirements Cotton & Linen Strong fibres, stronger when wet, can withstand hard friction Resistant to alkalis, can be easily washed with strong detergents Can withstand high temperatures, if necessary can be boiled Resistant to organic solvents and bleaches, acidic substances weaken the fibre Acidic reagents used should be rinsed and neutralised Gets crushed easily, have to be ironed properly to remove the wrinkles Needs to be damp for ironing or may scorch Fungus and mildew may attack them Should be completely dry and stored in low humidity atmosphere If heavily starched, it can be attacked by silverfish Need to be de-starched if stored over long periods Wool Weak fibre, and when it is wet weakens further Should be handled gently during laundering Easily damaged by alkaline substances Strong detergents or soaps should be avoided. Dry-cleaning solvents and stain removing agents have no deleterious effect. Bleaches have to be used with care When wool is subjected to mechanical action like agitation during washing, they have a tendency to felt and shrink. Washing in cold water with minimum handling is advised Knitted articles in wool can stretch out of shape while washing An outline of the garment is made before washing and after washing the article is stretched back to the outline. Has good resilience and does not wrinkle, may not require ironing No direct ironing of the fabric, if needed it may be steam pressed Wool protein is particularly susceptible to damage by insects like clothes moths and carpet beetles Repeated spraying with chemicals can prevent the damage during storage; naphthalene balls are effective for prevention of insect infestation Silk Strong fiber but