PRODUCT CARE
Our garments are thoughtfully crafted with care, and it's essential to extend the same love once they’re yours in order to prolong their lifespan. This ensures you can enjoy your new favorites for a long time. Below is a general guide on how to care for different fabrics and the best methods to follow. However, always refer to the care instructions on the product page or the garment hang tag for specific guidance. If you're still unsure, feel free to reach out to us at hello@ikkivi.com, we’re happy to assist you :)
Cottons:
Always wash in cold water on a gentle machine cycle or hand wash. Hang dry in the shade and avoid using the dryer. Do not soak or bleach. Separate light and dark colors before washing. Iron on hot; steam iron for lightweight cottons. Use mild detergents only.
Silks:
Gentle hand wash in cold water. Dry clean where required. Separate light and dark colors before washing. Do not wring; reshape and hang dry. Do not bleach. Use mild detergents only. Iron on low, inside out; steam iron preferred. Do not use a dryer.
Linens:
Always wash in cold water on a gentle machine cycle or hand wash. Hang dry in the shade and avoid using the dryer. Do not soak or bleach. Separate light and dark colors before washing. Iron when damp for best results. Steam iron for lightweight linens. Use mild detergents only.
Lyocell & Tencel:
Cold water wash. Machine wash in a mesh bag on a delicate cycle or gently hand wash. Hang dry in the shade. Steam iron only. Do not use the dryer or bleach, and avoid friction and rubbing.
Modal:
Cold water wash. Separate light and dark colors before washing. Machine wash in a mesh bag on a delicate cycle or gently hand wash. Hang dry in the shade. Steam iron only. Do not use a dryer or bleach.
Applique Work, Embroidery, Patchwork, Quilting:
Take extra care to spot clean separately to preserve surface ornamentation techniques like embroidery, patchwork, beadwork, quilting, and applique work. Gently hand wash or dry clean. Hang dry in the shade.
Buttons and Zippers:
Always handle closures like buttons, zippers, and hooks gently to retain their quality and longevity. Take extra care while washing, steaming, and ironing these areas.
Elastics:
Avoid using elasticated garments in the dryer.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS AND WHAT THEY MEAN
Hand Wash:
The garment should be gently washed by hand, not in a machine, to protect delicate fabrics or finishes. Fill a sink or basin with cold or lukewarm water, add mild detergent, and gently swish the item without scrubbing or wringing. Rinse thoroughly, press out excess water using a towel (don’t twist), and lay flat or hang to dry. This helps maintain the garment’s shape and details.
Dry Clean Only:
The garment should be professionally cleaned using a chemical process instead of being washed at home with water. This label is common on delicate fabrics like silk or structured materials that can shrink, lose shape, or get damaged in a regular wash. Dry cleaning removes stains and dirt without soaking the garment, helping preserve its color, texture, and construction. Washing it at home can lead to fabric damage or distortion, so it’s best to follow the care label and use a trusted dry cleaner.
Steam Iron / Iron on Low:
The garment should be ironed at a low temperature setting, typically suitable for delicate fabrics that can be damaged by high heat. Using a steam iron helps smooth out wrinkles gently without pressing too hard or risking scorch marks. It's important to check that the iron is set to the appropriate fabric setting—usually labeled as low or with symbols for silk or synthetics—and to avoid direct contact with the fabric if necessary by using a pressing cloth. Following this instruction helps maintain the garment’s texture, shape, and overall quality.
Hang Dry:
The garment should be air dried by hanging it on a clothesline, hanger, or drying rack, rather than using a machine dryer. This method helps prevent shrinkage, fading, or fabric damage that can occur with high heat. Hanging the garment allows it to dry naturally, often reducing wrinkles and maintaining its shape. It’s best to hang the item in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight if the fabric is prone to fading. Following these steps helps extend the life and appearance of the garment.
Flat Lay Dry:
The garment should be dried by laying it flat on a clean, dry surface rather than being hung or placed in a dryer. This method is especially important for delicate or stretchy fabrics that can lose their shape or become misshapen when hung while wet. To flat dry properly, gently reshape the garment and place it on a towel or a drying rack designed for flat drying, allowing it to air dry naturally. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, which can cause fading. This gentle drying method helps maintain the garment’s original shape, texture, and overall quality.
Do Not Wring:
Avoid twisting or squeezing the garment to remove excess water after washing, as this can damage the fabric, stretch it out of shape, or cause wrinkles that are difficult to remove. Instead, gently press the water out by pressing the garment between clean towels or lightly squeezing without twisting. This instruction is especially important for delicate fabrics that are more vulnerable to distortion or wear. Following this care guideline helps preserve the garment’s shape, texture, and longevity.
Do Not Soak:
The garment should not be left in water for an extended period, as prolonged soaking can cause colors to bleed, fabric to weaken, or embellishments to loosen. This instruction is especially important for delicate or brightly colored fabrics. Instead, wash the garment promptly and rinse without delay to help preserve its color, shape, and overall condition.
Spot Clean:
The stained or soiled area of the garment should be cleaned rather than washing the entire piece. This method is used for delicate items or those with special finishes that may be damaged by full washing. To spot clean, gently dab the affected area with a mild detergent or stain remover using a soft cloth or sponge, then blot with water to remove any residue. Avoid rubbing harshly, as it can damage the fabric. Spot cleaning not only preserves the garment’s quality but is also a more sustainable choice, saving water, energy, and detergent by reducing the need for full washes.
Do Not Use Dryer:
The garment should be air dried instead of using a tumble dryer, as heat can cause shrinkage, fading, or damage. Air drying helps preserve the fabric’s quality and is more energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
Do Not Bleach:
The garment should not be treated with any bleach or bleach-containing products, as they can damage the fabric, cause discoloration, or weaken the fibers. This instruction is especially important for delicate or colored fabrics that can be permanently altered by harsh chemicals. To preserve the garment’s color, texture, and overall quality, it’s best to avoid any form of bleaching during cleaning.