Polyester, polyamide, nylon or perlon - synthetic fibres go by many names and have established themselves in recent decades as particularly easy-care and functional alternatives to cotton or silk. Not only sports basics or swimwear make use of the low weight and quick-drying properties of chemically produced textiles. Fashionable items of clothing such as your favourite well-fitting blouse or comfortable jeggings also benefit from the elasticity and shape retention of polyester and co. To ensure that your synthetic underwear does not retain any unpleasant odours in the long term, you should wash it regularly and not too hot. You can find out how to care for synthetics in the washing machine here.
Let's be honest: why spend time ironing or intensively caring for textiles when you can achieve ideal results in just a few simple steps? Polyester fibres are up to three times thinner than silk and also score points for their practical care properties. Synthetic fibres are characterised by their crease resistance. After washing, synthetic fabrics are usually dry within a few hours. However, chemically produced textiles do not tolerate high heat, which is why tumble dryers and irons are usually taboo when caring for these innovative fibres and are fortunately superfluous anyway.
There really isn't much to consider before your synthetic laundry can safely spin in the drum. As a rule of thumb, polyester and nylon or blended fabrics should be washed at a maximum of 60 degrees Celsius. If you prefer to be on the safe side, a 40-degree wash cycle is also suitable. Although some washing machines have special synthetic care programmes, in most cases it is not necessary to wash synthetics differently to other fibres. A detergent that is optimised for the needs of synthetic fabrics, such as Dylon Liquid Colour Detergent, is helpful. Stubborn odours are removed gently and effectively.
Washing synthetics can be so easy. With the right know-how and mild detergent, it can be done in no time at all.
Tips and tricks for washing synthetics in the washing machine
With these practical laundry hacks, synthetic fibres will stay as good as new for a long time:
- Synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon, blended fabrics or synthetic fibres made from natural raw materials such as viscose should never be washed at temperatures above 60 degrees Celsius. However, if you are in any doubt about how synthetics behave in the washing machine, it is advisable to follow the washing instructions and symbols on the label.
- To counteract electrostatic charging of your synthetic garments, you can use a dash of fabric softener.
- After washing, you can air dry synthetic garments. Most synthetic fibres are quick-drying.
- Using a special mild detergent not only preserves the special structure and functionality of your synthetic garments, but also counteracts odours.
- You don't need to iron your synthetic items, as the fine fibres are pleasantly crease-resistant.