Caring for cotton nighties
A cotton nighty is worn and washed more than almost anything else in the wardrobe. A few simple habits keep the print bright and the fit right for much longer.
The first few washes
- Wash it on its own for the first two or three washes. Printed and dyed cotton can release a little colour at first, and it can mark lighter clothes.
- Do not leave it soaking for hours. Long soaks are when colours run the most.
Washing
- Cold or lukewarm water. Hot water fades colour and can make cotton shrink.
- A mild detergent, and no bleach. Bleach weakens the fibre and leaves pale patches on prints.
- Turn it inside out before washing. This protects the printed side from rubbing.
- Machine or hand wash. By machine, use a gentle cycle. A mesh laundry bag helps if the nighty has buttons, lace or embroidery. By hand, squeeze gently and do not wring hard.
Drying
- Dry it in the shade, still inside out. Strong sun fades colours quickly.
- Shake it out and smooth the seams before you hang it. It dries straighter and needs less ironing.
Ironing and storing
- Iron on a medium setting while it is slightly damp, on the reverse side, to keep the print fresh.
- Fold neatly while it is still a little warm, and you may not need to iron at all.
- Fold only when it is completely dry. Cotton put away damp can smell musty or spot.
About fit
Cotton can shrink a little in its first washes, mostly in hot water or a hot dryer. Cold washes and drying in the shade keep the fit you bought.
If you have a question about any of our nighties, message us on WhatsApp. We are happy to help.