Washing, Pressing & Caring for Embroidered Items

How to Protect, Clean, and Preserve Your Embroidery Projects

Embroidery adds personality and artistry to fabric, but it also requires mindful care. Whether your design is stitched by hand or machine, proper washing and maintenance ensures your hard work lasts for years. This guide covers how to clean, press, and store embroidered pieces with confidence.

 

1. Washing Embroidered Items

Best Practices

·       Hand wash in cold water with a mild, non-bleach detergent.

·       Gently swish, don’t scrub or wring the fabric.

·       Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.

·       Press between towels to remove excess water—do not twist or squeeze.

Machine Washing?

·       Only if absolutely necessary, and use:

o   Gentle/delicate cycle

o   Mesh laundry bag

o   Cold water

o   Mild detergent

Important Notes

·       Avoid harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners.

·       If using water-soluble markers, test washing on a sample fabric first.

 

2. Drying & Ironing

Air Dry

·       Lay flat on a clean towel or drying rack.

·       Reshape gently while damp.

Ironing

·       Use low heat, and always iron on the reverse side.

·       Place a clean cloth between the iron and fabric.

·       Avoid steam, especially on specialty threads or stabilizers.

 

🧳 3. Storing Embroidered Items

Proper storage prevents fading, warping, or dust buildup.

Tips:

·       Store flat in a dry, dark place.

·       Avoid folding—roll large items instead.

·       Use acid-free tissue paper to prevent creasing or color transfer.

·       Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.

 

4. Caring for Different Materials

Embroidery Type	Care Tip
Hand embroidery	Handle gently, avoid machine wash
Machine embroidery	Reinforce stabilizers before washing
Metallic threads	Avoid heat and friction
Wool/Perle threads	Use cool water and air dry
Delicate fabrics	Always hand wash and use extra padding

 

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your embroidery not only protects the fabric and thread—it honors the time and creativity you’ve invested. A few extra minutes spent washing and pressing carefully can help preserve your work for generations to come.