Care instructions

 

Garment Care Instructions

At Mindful Merch, we take pride in producing high-quality garments made from sustainable fabrics like Hemp/Cotton blends and GOTS-certified Organic Cotton. To help you extend the life of your clothing and maintain its fit and feel, we’ve provided detailed care instructions below.

General Care Guidelines

• Wash in Cold Water: Always wash your garments in cold water (preferably below 30°C) to protect the fibres and minimise shrinkage.
• Use Mild Detergents: Opt for gentle, eco-friendly detergents to preserve the natural softness and durability of the fabric.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use bleach or other harsh chemicals as they can weaken the fibres and damage the garment's colour.

Drying Recommendations

• Air Dry: For best results, lay your garments flat to dry or hang them in the shade. This method reduces energy usage and prevents excessive shrinkage.
• Tumble Dry (Optional): If you prefer to tumble dry, use a low heat setting. We recommend sizing up by 1–2 sizes if you plan to use a dryer, as some shrinkage is expected.

Shrinkage Information

Although we pre-wash all fabrics before cutting to reduce shrinkage, a small amount (1–3 cm) is still possible after the first cold wash. We account for this in our garment sizing, which is why our tees run slightly oversized upon purchase. After their first wash, they are designed to shrink to fit within the intended size range.

• Concerned About Fit? If you prefer a looser fit or plan to tumble dry regularly, we suggest sizing up 1–2 sizes to accommodate any shrinkage.

Specific Fabric Details

Hemp/Cotton Blend

• Hemp naturally softens with each wash and becomes more comfortable over time. Its durable fibres require gentle handling, so avoid high-heat drying.
• The blend offers a breathable, lightweight feel perfect for year-round wear.
• Shrinkage tolerance 1-3cm.

Organic Cotton

• Known for its softness and durability, organic cotton garments will retain their quality when cared for properly.
• Cold water washing and air drying are ideal for maintaining its shape and longevity.
• Shrinkage tolerance 1-2cm. 

Caps

• Our caps are made from high-quality materials without embellishments, making them easy to care for:
  1. Spot Cleaning: Use a damp cloth with mild detergent to gently clean any dirt or marks. Do not soak the cap in water to maintain its structure.
  2. Avoid Machine Washing: Washing machines can distort the shape of the cap and damage the materials.
  3. Air Dry: Reshape the cap and allow it to air dry naturally. Avoid using dryers or applying direct heat, as this can shrink or warp the fabric.
  4. Proper Storage: Store your cap in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight, to avoid fading and distortion. 

Merino Wool Beanies

Our Merino wool beanies are soft, breathable, and naturally insulating. To maintain their quality:

1. Hand Wash Only: Wash your beanie in cold water using a gentle, wool-friendly detergent. Hot water or harsh detergents can cause shrinkage or damage.
2. Avoid Machine Washing: Even on delicate cycles, washing machines can stretch or melt the wool. Hand washing is best.
3. Do Not Wring or Twist: After washing, gently press out excess water using a towel. Avoid wringing, as it can damage the fibres.
4. Air Dry Flat: Lay the beanie flat on a towel to dry, reshaping it as needed. Do not hang dry, as this can cause stretching.
5. Prevent Pilling: Over time, Merino wool may naturally pill. Use a wool comb or fabric shaver to gently remove pilling and keep the beanie looking like new.

By following these care instructions, you’ll not only protect your garments but also contribute to a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle.  

Why Zero Shrinkage Is Unavoidable with Natural Fibres

At Mindful Merch, we prioritise using natural fibres like Hemp and Organic Cotton in our garments because of their sustainability, breathability, and comfort. However, one of the characteristics of natural fibres is that some degree of shrinkage is inevitable, even with the best care practices.

Why Do Natural Fibres Shrink?

• Fibre Structure: Natural fibres like hemp and cotton have a more open, breathable structure compared to synthetic materials. When exposed to water, especially during the first wash, the fibres relax and return to their natural state, leading to slight shrinkage.
• Moisture Absorption: Hemp and cotton absorb moisture much more than synthetic fabrics. This can cause the fibres to contract slightly during washing and drying.
• Environmental Impact of Pre-Washing: While we pre-wash all our fabrics to minimise shrinkage, eliminating it completely would require excessive chemical treatments or high-heat processes, which we avoid to maintain the integrity of the fabric and reduce environmental impact.

How We Account for Shrinkage

We intentionally design our garments with slightly oversized measurements to ensure they shrink into the perfect fit after their first wash. This process allows us to deliver a garment that remains true to its size chart while still embracing the natural qualities of the fibres.

Why Natural Fibres Are Worth It

Despite this minor adjustment, natural fibres offer numerous benefits that outweigh the inconvenience of slight shrinkage:

• Breathability: Keeps you cool in warm weather and warm in cooler climates.
• Durability: Hemp and organic cotton are long-lasting when cared for correctly.
• Softness and Comfort: Natural fibres soften with every wash, offering unparalleled comfort.
• Sustainability: Hemp and organic cotton are biodegradable, renewable, and grown with less impact on the environment compared to synthetic materials.

At Mindful Merch, we embrace the natural characteristics of these fibres and are proud to offer garments that reflect their sustainable and high-quality origins. With proper care and understanding, you’ll enjoy the long-lasting benefits of wearing clothing made with intention and respect for the planet.