Cloth
Take Care of Me
Hand Wash
Hand washing with cool water and a gentle, eco-friendly detergent suitable for wools, silks & delicates is the safest method. Avoid soaking for extended periods as this can distort and weaken the fibers.
Steam with hand steamer or iron steam setting while hanging to freshen as alternative to wet wash
Dry
Gently squeeze out excess water and drip dry on a warm, sunny day. Hang to dry or lie flat in a shaded area. Never wring out the fabric or hang it in direct sunlight. Drip drying helps prevent creases forming.
Tumble drying is not recommended, especially for wool items as it can cause shrinkage.
Iron
To maintain the integrity and appearance of your fabric: use a medium heat setting or silk setting on your iron. Place a clean cotton cloth (pressing cloth) over the fabric to protect its surface while ironing.
Preserving the beauty of upcycled kimono and obi fabrics requires a little extra attention. These textiles often feature delicate threads and natural dyes, making them truly unique but also sensitive to handling and cleaning.
Free Repairs
Should your piece need mending, I’m happy to repair it free of charge (shipping costs not included). Simply contact me to arrange the details.
DIY Repairs: Cloth patches are included with your order for future mending projects. Need more? Additional patches can be sent at no cost—just reach out to request them.
Handling & Storage
Avoid Sunlight:
Display and store your items away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading or weaken the fibers. If possible, store in a cool, dark place.
Breathable Storage:
When storing your items for extended periods, use cotton bags or fabric covers to protect them while allowing the fabric to breathe. Avoid plastic bags or containers, as they can trap moisture and lead to mildew or dry rot.
Roll, Don’t Fold:
Roll your items rather than folding. This helps to avoid creases or pressure marks, which can be difficult to remove from delicate materials.
Conserving Cloth Integrity
Mending & Repairs:
If the fabric of your item develops small tears or loose threads over time, it’s important to make repairs promptly. Minor imperfections can often be lovingly mended to restore their beauty. If needed, I can assist you in mending your pieces.
Avoid Heavy Wear:
While kimono and obi cloth is often durable, they are not invulnerable. Avoid wearing or using your upcycled pieces in situations where heavy wear or stress is likely.
Why Care Matters
Proper care and maintenance of your items ensures their longevity and preserves the beautiful stories they carry. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your O Tsukiyo pieces for years to come, while contributing to the sustainability ethos at the heart of O Tsukiyo designs.
For more tips or specific guidance on how to care for your piece, feel free to contact me directly!
Cleaning & Maintenance
Spot Cleaning:
For small stains or marks, gently spot clean with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire fabric.
Hand Wash Only:
Hand washing with cold water and a gentle, eco-friendly detergent is the safest method. Avoid soaking for extended periods or wringing, as this can distort and weaken the fibers.
Drying:
Gently squeeze out excess water and drip dry on a warm, sunny day. Hang to dry or lie flat in a shaded area. Never wring out the fabric or hang it in direct sunlight. Drip drying helps prevent creases forming.
Professional Cleaning:
Though dry cleaning is not usually recommended for environmental reasons, if your item is heavily soiled or requires deep cleaning, seeking a professional dry cleaner experienced in handling delicate fabrics may be your best option.
Delaying Degradation
Moisture Control:
Keep fabrics away from damp or humid environments, as this can cause mold or mildew to form. In particularly humid climates, consider using silica gel packets or moisture-absorbing bags to maintain the fabric’s dryness.
Pest Prevention:
Moths and other pests can be attracted to natural fibers like silk and wool. Use cedar, or lavender sachets to keep your fabrics safe from these invaders.