Cleaning and caring

Some fabrics need special attention - here's how to keep them looking their best.


  • Acrylic knitwear

    Acrylic is prone to stretching, so take care to follow the care label instructions on each garment carefully. It could mean the difference between a cardigan that fits like a glove and a cardigan that just hangs baggily.

  • Blankets and rugs

    The care label will tell you whether your blanket or rug is machine washable. Then you need to make sure it will fit into the washing machine (launderette machines usually have a higher load capacity).

    Avoid using the bath for washing blankets or rugs. The wet item will be heavy, making rinsing difficult. Also some detergents contain phosphate - a water softening ingredient - which can damage the surface of enamel baths.

  • Duvets

    The care label will tell you if your duvet is machine washable. Unless you have a big washing machine, washable duvets are best taken to a launderette. After washing, make sure they are completely dried and aired before use.

    Duvets filled with feather or down may not be washable but require specialist cleaning. Visit Clothing Services to find launderettes and cleaning services in your area or click here to visit Persil Services.

    Stains on duvets should be mopped up quickly. If the filling is feathers or down, shake the feathers away and then treat the stain using advice from our Stain Solver section.

  • Pillows

    Foam and feather pillows can be washed but drying can take a long time. Always refer to the care instructions first.

    Always cover a pillow with a pillowcase and if it does get stained treat stains quickly using our Stain Solver advice. If the filling is feathers or down, shake the feathers away and treat the stain immediately.

  • Flame retardant finishes

    It's important that washable flame-resistant fabrics are only washed with detergent, not soap. This is because soap's natural ingredients can react with the minerals in water to leave an insoluble film on the fabric, which can damage the flame-resistant finish.

    Don't wash above 50°C and avoid soaking as this can also damage the flame-resistant finish. A liquid fabric conditioner can be used, but be sure to follow the care label instructions carefully.

  • Modern fabrics

    When washing modern fabrics, sort them according to their colour and how dirty they are. See the care label on the garment for the best way to wash your light fabrics.

    For Cupro TM and Tencel TM, using a fabric conditioner such as Comfort reduces creasing and maintains the appearance of the fabric.

  • Sheepskin

    You can wash sheepskin in water, but it will require a lot of care. Totally immersing sheepskin in water, for example, can cause its backing to dry and crack.

    The garment's care label may well refer you to specialist cleaning. Visit Persil Services to find a specialist cleaning service nearest to you.

  • Sofa covers / soft furnishings

    Check the care label. If it states that the item is washable, then use a detergent without a bleaching or brightening agent (such as Persil Colour Care) to help keep colours at their best. If the item doesn't have a care label, ask your dry cleaner for advice.

    Remember to wash matching items the same number of times so one doesn't fade faster than the other.

  • Gore-Tex TM

    You can use any detergent on Gore-Tex TM (whether it is biological, non-bio, or contains bleach or not), but be sure to wash the clothes on a gentle cycle.

  • Other waterproofs

    If you see a care label on a waterproof garment that says it should be washed in an alkaline free detergent, Persil Silk & Wool will do the job - it's pH neutral and therefore alkaline free.

  • Trimmings

    Trimmings on some garments can make a difference to how they are washed.
Order your free net, ball or scoop »
Problem Stain? Take a look at our Stain Solver »