Care instructions
How to keep a good piece looking good — the notes I gave customers in my shops.
By material
Silk and viscose
Hand wash cold with a gentle detergent, or dry clean. Never wring — roll in a towel, then dry flat away from sun.
Cashmere and wool
Hand wash cold, dry flat, and always store folded. Hanging knitwear stretches the shoulders permanently.
Denim
Wash inside out, cold, as rarely as you can bear. Air dry. Heat is what kills the fit.
Care at a glance
| Material | Washing | Drying | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silk | Hand wash cold or dry clean | Dry flat, shaded | Steam, never press directly |
| Cashmere | Hand wash cold | Dry flat | Store folded with cedar |
| Linen | Machine wash cool | Line dry | Press while damp |
| Denim | Cold, inside out | Air dry | Do not tumble |
| Leather | Wipe only | Away from heat | Condition twice a year |
| Faience & ceramics | Hand wash | Air dry | Not dishwasher safe |
Always follow the garment's own care label first — these are general notes.
Looking after the decor
Vintage faience and pottery
Hand wash only, never the dishwasher. Old glazes craze with heat and detergent.
Rattan and cane
Dust with a dry brush. Keep out of damp rooms, where cane loosens and sags.
Weathered wood
Wipe with a barely damp cloth. Oil once a year and never use a spray polish.
