By choosing well-finished products made of high-quality materials, you can benefit from their long life. Properly maintaining textiles extends their useful life and helps protect the environment. When textiles are used longer, the need to produce new products decreases, which saves natural resources. And the amount of waste and the impact of waste management on the environment are reduced. Ecological requirements encourage us all to a more responsible culture of consumption, in which quality and durability are valued. By taking care of textiles, we can collectively reduce the impact on the environment and promote sustainable development. Wool and linen textiles require special attention because they are natural materials that behave differently than synthetic fibers. Here are some tips for caring for both materials.
Wool is naturally stain-resistant and rarely needs washing. Usually, airing it outside is enough to remove odors and freshen up the textiles. Winter snow cleaning also freshens up wool textiles. Air out your wool textiles whenever possible and only wash them if they are seriously dirty.
If wool requires washing, do it by hand in lukewarm water. Always use a mild detergent specifically designed for wool.
Avoid rubbing when washing. Wool fibers are sensitive to stretching and friction. Do not twist or rub the fabric during washing, instead gently squeeze out excess water.
Remember to dry wool textiles flat. They should not be hung to dry, as they can stretch and lose their shape. Lay the garment flat on a towel and gently restore its original shape. Allow to dry at room temperature.
It is also important to store wool properly. Store woolen textiles in a cool, dry place. Avoid plastic bags, as wool needs to breathe. Instead, use breathable storage bags or bags made of natural fabric. Protect woolen textiles from moths by using cedar blocks or other natural pest repellents.
Care for your woolen textiles periodically. The soft fibers on the surface of woolen textiles can pill when rubbed. If pills do occur, use a fabric shaver to remove the pills. To keep your mohair blanket looking nice and to remove loose fibers, brush the blanket regularly with a soft brush.
Linen is a natural fabric that, if you treat it with care, will serve you for many seasons.
It is worth remembering the proper washing procedure. Linen textiles can withstand washing at temperatures up to 60°C, but 40°C is often enough. Avoid overloading the washing machine. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach. Choose a gentle cycle in the washing machine to prevent damage to the linen fibers.
Avoid tumble drying. Tumble drying is not recommended for linen textiles, as it can cause shrinkage and damage to the fibers. Instead, hang linen to dry in a well-ventilated area.
Linen clothes and textiles crease easily, which is part of the material's character and aesthetics. Linen textiles can be ironed or mangled while still damp. Remember, however, that linen does not require ironing, as it looks best in its loose, natural form. If necessary, iron linen at the appropriate temperature indicated on the product label.
Store linen in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the linen fibers to fade and weaken.
See the range of products made from natural linen and wool from Finnish brand Lapuan Kankurit. These include beautiful towels, fashionable bathrobes, warm blankets and tablecloths full of Scandinavian character and references to the natural environment so beloved in Scandinavia. The offer is also complemented by textiles designed for the sauna such as sauna pads, pillows or linen towels.