Cotton is one of those materials that rewards attention. It asks for little, yet gives so much in return. It’s the reason we use it in nearly everything we make at Lone Creek, from graphic tees to hoodies. It feels natural because it is. But even something as timeless as cotton needs care if you want it to last.
The truth is, looking after cotton isn’t complicated. It’s not about routines or rules. It’s about paying attention. When you understand what it responds to, you start to see that small acts make a big difference. Cold water keeps the fibres strong. Harsh detergents break them down. Heat reshapes them before their time. That’s all you really need to remember.
Washing cotton gently is the first step. A cool cycle, a simple detergent, and space to breathe. The fewer chemicals, the better. Natural fibres thrive on a slower pace. You don’t need brighteners or softeners; they only mask what’s already good. Cotton’s softness comes from wear and time, not additives. When cotton is pre-shrunk, it moves a little on its first wash. Gentle care helps it settle naturally without stress. You can read more about that in What Does “Pre-Shrunk” Really Mean?.
Drying is where patience really matters. Cotton loves air, not heat. Skip the tumble dryer if you can and hang it somewhere shaded, out of direct sunlight. The warmth of the day will do the rest without pulling or fading. A light breeze does more for the fabric than any machine. It’s a slower way to finish the job, but it’s also kinder. When you see the way the fabric holds its shape afterwards, it feels worth it.
If you like to iron, do it on a low setting while the fabric is slightly damp. Always inside out, especially for pieces with prints. But if you prefer that soft, lived-in look, you can leave the iron where it is. Cotton carries its creases well. They tell small stories of movement and time, and that’s part of its charm.
Storage is often forgotten but it’s where longevity lives. Fold your cotton pieces neatly and keep them somewhere cool and dry. Hanging them for too long stretches the shoulders and weakens the seams. Drawers and shelves are better homes. A little space between each piece helps air flow and stops moisture building up. It’s the kind of care you hardly notice yourself doing, but it’s what keeps a shirt or hoodie looking good year after year.
Caring for cotton is a quiet craft. It doesn’t take effort so much as intention. The point isn’t to keep your clothes looking brand new. It’s to let them age well. When you take care of something, you start to build a kind of friendship with it. The fabric softens, the colour settles, and the piece begins to feel like part of your rhythm. That’s what we want from clothing, not perfection, just honesty.
Good care is also good sense. It saves energy, reduces waste, and keeps the things you already own in use for longer. We like to think of it as sustainability without the slogans. A simple, steady way of showing respect for what you wear.
If you’re interested in how natural fibres like cotton fit into sustainable living, the Soil Association has a helpful introduction at https://www.soilassociation.org.