Finishes and Care
Why finishes exist
Finishes change appearance or performance. Mechanical finishes include calendering (glazing), raising (brushing) and sanforising (shrinkage control). Chemical finishes include mercerising (cotton strength and lustre), easy-care/resin (crease recovery), flame retardancy, water repellency and anti-static treatments. Some finishes reduce breathability or strength - a trade-off candidates should mention.
Care labelling
Care symbols cover washing (temperature, hand or machine), bleaching, drying (tumble, line), ironing (dots for temperature) and professional cleaning. Learn the logic: one dot low heat, three dots high. Candidates must interpret the most restrictive symbol on a garment.
Care practice
Sort by colour and fabric, empty pockets, close fastenings, turn garments inside out, use mesh bags for delicates, and treat stains promptly from the reverse. Wool needs cool hand washing and flat drying; silk needs mild detergent and shade drying.
Traps
- Assuming a finish is permanent - many wash out.
- Reading ironing dots backwards.
- Thinking hot water sanitises all fabrics; it shrinks wool and sets stains.
- Forgetting that bleach damages protein fibres.
Rule of thumb
Follow the harshest care instruction on the label. Worked example: a cotton shirt labelled wash 40°C, tumble dry low, iron two dots - wash warm, dry on low heat, iron at medium; ironing at three dots risks scorching, so the label limits you.