I. Introduction
Hemp fabric, derived from the hemp plant’s fibers, is quickly becoming a staple in sustainable clothing and home textiles. Hemp – formerly confined to the fabric-making side of the industry – is now celebrated for its toughness and sustainable benefits. It is gaining traction precisely because of its toughness, biodegradability and low environmental footprint. Hemp fabrics are used for a variety of products ranging from clothing and accessories to home décor and upholstery, due to its durability, versatility and softness.
Sustainability is perhaps the most significant aspect behind the growing interest in hemp fabric. Hemp grows fast, needs minimal water, and doesn’t require toxic pesticides or herbicides. These eco-friendly properties make it one of the most sought-after alternatives to traditional fabrics among customers who want a sustainable alternative to traditional textiles. Hemp fabric is extremely durable, too, often outlasting other fabrics like cotton and artificial fibers, making it a good investment in long-lasting items.
But the best treatment is required to preserve the life and quality of hemp fabric. Like any high-quality fabric, regular cleaning and washing techniques are necessary to maintain hemp’s natural characteristics. This detailed tutorial will teach you how to wash hemp fabric properly so that it is lasting, comfy, and beautiful for years to come.
II. Understanding Hemp Fabric
What is Hemp Fabric?
Hemp fabric is produced using the fibres of the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa), which has been grown for centuries for its numerous uses. Hemp fabric has been used in textiles for millennia but it has become more popular over the past few years as demand for sustainable fabrics continues to rise. Hemp fabric is produced by processing the twisted stalks of the hemp plant into a thick, durable fabric. They remove the long fibers, then spin them into yarn and sew them into fabric.
Hemp fabrics are highly durable. Indeed, it’s one of the strongest natural fibres around. Unlike cotton, which shrinks when washed frequently, hemp fabric remains sturdy throughout the year. This makes hemp fabrics ideally suited to items that demand frequent use, including upholstery, purses and sportswear.
Also Read : Hemp Fabric in Upholstery
Plus, hemp cloth has a distinct natural feel. It is initially stiff, but smooths out with each wash and gradually becomes more comfortable. Weaving hemp, with its organic texture, has a gritty, earthy vibe that’s great for minimalist or eco-conscious people. Hemp, too, is biodegradable (it will decompose over time, unlike synthetic fibers), which doesn’t end up in landfills like textiles.
What is the Difference Between Hemp and Other Fabrics?
In comparison to other textiles, hemp is advantageous in several key ways:
- Hemp vs. Cotton: Hemp is typically advertised as a sustainable alternative to cotton. Cotton needs massive amounts of water and pesticides to develop, but hemp requires little water and does not require chemical fertilisation. Hemp is also stronger than cotton, which means it’s harder to tear down and damage.
- Hemp vs. Synthetic Fabrics: In contrast to synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon, hemp is natural fiber and is therefore environmentally safer. Hemp cloth doesn’t float away microplastics in the water when washed, like synthetic clothing that is adding to the ever-growing menace of microplastics in our oceans. Hemp also breaks down easily, while synthetic fibres can remain in the environment for centuries.
- Hemp vs Linen: Hemp and linen are both natural fibers with similar properties. But hemp is usually stronger and harder than linen, and linen is typically more light and pliable. Hemp fabric is also wrinkle-resistant compared to linen, which is ideal for items that will get a lot of wear.
Overall, hemp fabric has a unique blend of durability, greenness, and beauty that makes it the ideal fabric for a multitude of products.
Why Proper Care Matters
Although hemp textiles are very durable, their life and appearance still rely on care. Washing hemp fabric the wrong way will result in fading, shrinkage, and weakness. Like any fabric, hemp should be treated carefully in order to maintain its properties.
- Maintaining the Hemp’s Natural Features: Hemp fabrics possess inherent features like breathability, moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties. They can lose these features if the fabric is washed improperly or washed with detergents and high temperatures. It is essential to maintain these beneficial attributes with proper care so that hemp fabric is comfortable and useful.
- Staying Strong: Strength is one of hemp’s best attributes. But to keep it from wearing out with repeated usage and washing, cleaning it correctly will help. Improper laundry techniques wear the fibers down, degrading the fabric over time. Keeping your hemp fabric clean will help keep it structurally sound and extend the lifespan of your hemp goods.
- Looking Good: Hemp fabric resembles the nature of a soily material that can appeal to minimalist and sustainable designers. But this appearance can be affected if the fabric is not washed well. If you expose them to too much heat, chemicals or drying, the material will fade, discolorate or become uneven. Careful washing and air-drying will help keep the fabric as natural looking as possible and it will be pleasing to the eye.
III. General Instructions for Washing Hemp Fabric
Hemp fabric – because of its strength, versatility, and environmental consciousness – is a long-lasting and sustainable substitute for conventional textiles. But, like all fabrics, you need to treat it with care and respect in order to preserve its longevity. When properly washed, hemp cloth retains its natural texture, breathability, moisture-wicking and earthy look.
In this part, we will discuss some general tips on how to prepare hemp fabric for washing, what detergent to use, and what temperature of water to use. By doing these things, you’ll be not only preserving your hemp fabric’s quality, ease and appearance, but also being kind to the environment.
Preparing Hemp Fabric for Washing
Before washing hemp cloth, you should perform a few preparatory procedures to make sure that you are not harming the fibers. These preliminary precautions ensure that the fabric will be cleaned effectively and the quality will not be lost.
View Fabric Care Labels and Instructions
Whenever your hemp fabric product has a care label or other guidelines, make sure to read them before washing. These instructions offer valuable information about how to clean and treat the object, which varies based on the blend or pattern of the material. For instance, hemp mixed with cotton, linen or other fibres might require slightly different washing instructions. The care label will tell you whether the fabric can be machine washed or hand washed, as well as the correct water temperature, detergent and drying time.
Sort By Color and Fabric Type.
When washing your hemp fabric, remember to rinse by color in order to prevent transfer of dye. This is particularly true for dark hemp fabric that may bleed during wash; to avoid bleeding, wash light-colored garments separate from dark fabrics.
Alongside color-sorting, it is possible to distinguish hemp fabrics from other types of fabrics, especially synthetic fibers. Hemp is naturally more delicate compared to it, and if washed with polyester or nylon, it might become entangled or damaged. For those of you who don’t know, it is a no-brainer to wash hemp cloth on its own.
Pre-Treat Stains Before Washing
Hemp cloth is relatively stain-resistant, but as with all fabric, over time it can become covered in dirt or spills. If you wash stains, treating them before washing will ensure that the fabric is clean and free from marks. For small stains, simply wipe off the stain with some mild soap and warm water. : Use a natural stain remover (baking soda and water, or vinegar) if the stain is difficult to get out. Set the pre-treatment for 10–15 minutes before rinsing.
Choosing the Right Detergent
It depends upon what kind of detergent you use to keep the hemp fabric in good shape. Because hemp has a natural chemical tolerance, it is best to choose a mild, environmentally friendly detergent. What you should remember when choosing a hemp laundry detergent:
Mild, Eco-Friendly Detergents
Use detergents designed specifically for delicate fabrics or those that are environmentally friendly. Such detergents typically use fewer harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and dyes. Soft detergents are less likely to discolor hemp cloth and are more ecologically friendly. Use biodegradable detergents wherever possible to support hemp’s sustainable mission.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Bleach
Wash hemp fabric without bleach, fabric softener, or any other harsh chemicals. Bleach in particular can dissolve the fibers and dry out the fabric’s natural oils, making it susceptible to damage. Adding fabric softeners can also damage the feel of hemp cloth, affecting its natural breathability and wicking ability. Instead, use natural solutions like vinegar to moisturize the fabric, if needed.
Temperature and Water Settings
The right temperature and water levels are crucial for washing hemp textiles properly. Hot water, in particular, damages the fibers permanently, causing them to shrink, fade and break. How to regulate water temperature:
Cold or Lukewarm Water
Fabrics made from hemp need to be machine washed with cold or warm water. Cold water (30°C or 86°F) is preferred as it preserves the fabric’s natural structure and does not shrink it. Cold water (about 40°C or 104°F) is fine for more challenging cleaning projects, but hot water should not be used unless noted on the care label. Soaking hemp in cold water makes sure that the fibers don’t fade or shrink.
Why Hot Water Doesn’t Work for Hemp?
Hemp cloth — like other natural materials — will deflate at high temperatures. Hot water can soften the fibers, altering the fit and contours of the garment or fabric. Moreover, hot water can destabilize the fibers and make them more susceptible to damage. Thus, when washing hemp cloth, you should always wash it with cold or lukewarm water so that it remains soft and flexible.
IV. Washing Hemp Fabric by Hand
Although machine washing works for many items, hand washing hemp is typically the most delicate to ensure that it maintains its texture, especially when it is very old or delicate. Washing your clothes by hand gives you a better hold over the task, without compromising fabric durability or wear. So, here’s a detailed step-by-step tutorial for washing hemp cloth by hand.
- Guide to Washing Hemp Fabric Hand By Hand Step By Step Instructions
Fill a Tank with Lukewarm Water.
– Begin by putting warm water in a basin, sink or tub. As said earlier, don’t let the water get too hot or cold. For washing hemp, lukewarm water works best since it’s gentle enough to not shrink the fibers.
Use A Gentle Detergent or Natural Soap.
Add a few drops of mild, natural detergent to the water. It is also possible to use a natural soap (e.g., castile soap), that is neither harsh on the fabric nor the environment. Make sure you stir the water around so the detergent or soap is fully dissolved.
Aerate the Water and Submerge the Fabric.
Place the hemp fabric into the soapy water, ensuring it is completely submerged. Scratch the fabric by sprinkling it in the water. You should not rub or twist the fabric as this creates friction and breaks the fibers. Let the garment soak for 10–15 minutes so the detergent can remove dirt and oil.
Rinse Thoroughly with Cool Water
Once the fabric is drenched and scrubbed, rinse it off. Take the soap off and fill the basin with cold, fresh water. Gently shake the material in the rinse water to dislodge any detergent residue. The rinse cycle will repeat until the water is clear and there are no soap bubbles.
Gently Pour Out Water (Don’t Wring)
Rinse, then rub the fabric to remove excess water. Don’t wring or pull the material because this will stretch and warp the fibers. Rather, lay the cloth flat on the side of the basin and push it down to drain the water.
What To Consider When Washing Hemp Fabric By Hand.
- Care for the Fibers: The most gentle way to wash hemp is by hand, this preserves the fibers and keeps them strong.
- Hand Wash Best for Delicate Products: If you are washing delicate or antique hemp products, hand washing is typically preferable to machine washing because it will create unwanted wear and tear on the items.
- Keeps Hemp’s Natural Colors and Flavors: Hand wash allows you to thoroughly clean the cloth without exposing it to the vigorous spinning or excessive hot water of a washing machine, which may degrade the cloth’s natural elasticity and feel.
V. Machine Washing Hemp Fabric
Even if you wash your hemp fabric by machine, there are some rules to follow to ensure the fabric is cleaned without ruining it. Machine washing is quick and easy, but you need to take extra care to avoid damage.
Instructions for Washing Hemp Fabric By Machine – Step by Step Instructions For Machine Washing Hemp Fabric By The Hand
Do Gentle Cycling With Cold or Lukewarm Water.
Put your washing machine on a gentle or delicate setting. This is a slower cycle and will help prevent excessive motion which can be detrimental to hemp cloth. Make sure you use cold or warm water, so you don’t damage the fibres or shrink it.
Place Hemp Fabric in a Mesh Bag.
Put your hemp fabric in a mesh laundry bag to ensure that it doesn’t get knotted up or caught in the machine. This is particularly pertinent when working with loose garments such as hemp shirts or blankets. The bag will keep the fabric from being overly rubbed against other clothes during the washing cycle and minimize damage.
Add a Mild, Eco-Friendly Detergent
Use a mild eco-friendly detergent that does not contain harsh chemicals like you do with your hands. Bleach and fabric softeners will degrade the fibers of the fabric and alter its quality. Use a soft soap that will clean the cloth without stripping it of its texture and natural properties.
Avoid Bleach or Fabric Softeners.
Bleach damages hemp fabric, weakening the fibers and turning it black. Fabric softeners are not recommended for hemp fabrics because they will dry the fibers and diminish natural breathability. Avoid the synthetic detergents as much as possible.
Pull Out of the Machine As Soon as Possible After Washing.
After the wash cycle, remove the hemp fabric from the machine quickly to prevent wrinkles and odours from setting in. Hemp is naturally wrinkle-resistant, but it can wrinkle over time if it is left in the machine too long.
Advice On Washing Hemp Fabric By Machine.
- Washing Hemp Products Inside Out: To maintain the colour and feel of your hemp fabric, be sure to wash products inside out. This will reduce friction on the surface and eliminate fading or pilling.
- Choosing the Right Wash Size: When washing hemp fabric, do not overwash the washer. Hemp is a thick material and over-stretching will break or twist the fibers. Making small washing loads frees the fabric, thereby making them cleaner.
VI. Drying Hemp Fabric
Hemp fabric is a versatile and sturdy fabric that, when treated well, will remain strong, comfortable, and attractive for years. Drying is a critical step in the care process. Air drying or using a machine dryer will depend on your choice of method on how you want to maintain the longevity and appearance of the fabric. Here, we’ll discuss how to properly dry hemp cloth: air drying, machine drying, and wrinkles.
Air Drying vs. Machine Drying
Air drying is the favored method for drying hemp cloth. This is because air drying does not have the hazards of heat, which can shrivel hemp, break it up, or make it too dry. But you can dry them by machine, under the right conditions.
Air Drying: The Only Way to Dry Hemp Fabric
This is by far the most effective way to keep hemp fabric in its natural state. The procedure is easy on the fibres and eliminates shrinkage or deformation. Why air drying is the best:
- Reducing Shrinkage: When the hemp material gets heated, it will shrink. Air drying makes the fabric dry without the intense heat of a dryer, which pulls the fibers tight.
- Maintains Durability: Hemp is an extremely tough fabric and air drying helps keep it strong without getting ruined by the high temperatures of machine drying. Over time, heat degrades the fibres, leaving them weak.
- Maintains Natural Texture: Hemp has its own texture that can be broken by extreme heat. Air-drying ensures that the fabric retains its natural softness and texture — one of its signature features.
Machine Drying: A Last Resort
Air drying is ideal, but sometimes you’ll have to go with a machine dryer when you have no time. But machine drying should not be taken lightly.
- Low-Heat or Air-Dry Setting: If you have to use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting possible or air-dry or no heat setting. High heat makes the fabric shrink, and over time, even lower heat settings can weaken the fibers.
- Drying Time: Hemp fabric takes slightly longer to dry than synthetics so make sure to check every so often to ensure that it’s not over dried or worn out. Do not dry hemp fabrics in a dryer for long periods of time to avoid overheating.
- Don’t Overload the Dryer: When using a machine dryer, don’t over load the drum. Overloading is the inability of the fabric to tumbling freely, causing uneven drying and unnecessary friction that may damage the fibers.
How to Air Dry Hemp Fabric
The easiest and most efficient way to dry hemp fabrics is by air drying them. How you do it:
- Flat or Hang: There are two ways to dry your hemp fabric with air: flat or hang. When drying a tablecloth or large piece of fabric, placing it flat on a dry surface or drying rack will keep it flat. For smaller garments such as shirts or pants, it’s best to hang on a clothesline or hanger so the fabric doesn’t wrinkle or lose its natural drape.
- Stay Out of Sunlight: While hemp fabric is somewhat light-resistant, over time, direct sunlight will degrade the fibers and fade the color. To avoid this, air dry your hemp fabric where you don’t get direct sunlight, such as in the shade or in a room that receives plenty of airflow.
- Don’t Use Too Much Dry Time: Hemp cloth will dry longer than synthetics because of the fibers that it contains. Just give it enough time to dry completely. It can take several hours to one day to dry hemp fabric, depending on the humidity and air flow in your room.
Handling Wrinkles in Hemp Fabric
Hemp fabric wrinkles easily, particularly after laundering and drying. But these wrinkles can easily be dealt with if we use the right methods.
- Steamer: Steaming is one of the easiest ways to unwrinkle hemp fabric. Steamers are gentle on delicate fibres, and can unwrap the fibres of the fabric, causing wrinkles to disappear without applying heat. Simply hold the steamer a few inches away from the fabric and move it around the wrinkled spots. Try not to steam the fabric too much, since it will stretch or shrink hemp.
- Low Heat Ironing: If you use an iron, lower the heat. High temperatures can burn hemp fabrics and damage them permanently. When ironing, leave it a little wet or iron with a steam iron so as not to iron out the natural texture of the fibres. Iron hemp fabric only on the back side, to ensure it does not touch the iron’s surface which may break it.
VII. Special Care for Hemp Blends
Hemp fabrics may be infused with cotton, linen or other fibers to make them more supple, comfortable or tough. Care instructions for hemp blends are different from those for pure hemp. Here are some key tips on handling blended hemp fabrics.
Blended Fabrics (Hemp/Cotton, Hemp/Linen, etc.)
The hemp/cotton or hemp/linen combinations are becoming increasingly popular, combining the strength of hemp with the drape of cotton or linen. But some fibers might need a different kind of care.
Tips for Washing when Hemp is Mixed with Other Materials
If you wash hemp blends, keep in mind the other fibers that make up the blend. For instance, cotton shrinks more than hemp, so you might want to wash the blend in cold water to avoid excessive shrinkage. For the same reason, linen fabric, which wrinkles more easily than hemp, may need to be handled more carefully to avoid drying out and breaking.
- Hemp/Cotton Blends: Cotton is a soft fabric that shrinks in hot water, so only wash hemp/cotton blends in cold or warm water. Do not dry it in hot water or over high heat, otherwise the garment will shrink.
- Hemp/Linen Blends: Linen is softer than hemp, so be sure to dry these blends with an air dryer to help maintain their integrity. Hand wash hemp/linen blends on a gentle cycle without bleach because linen absorbs chemicals that can destroy it.
How Mixing Affects the Care Labels?
Adding hemp to fibers may also change the way the fabric feels and functions, especially in terms of shrinkage, texture and toughness. Be sure to follow the blend’s care instructions, which are intended to manage the requirements of both fibers. When purchasing hemp blends, be sure to check the care instructions and test wash on a small, discreet area before washing the whole piece.
Pre-Wash Shrinkage Considerations
Hemp fabric, in particular when new looms, shrinks a little when you wash it for the first time. It’s a process that happens naturally because the fibres are initially stiff and contract when wet. Here’s what to expect:
Why Hemp Shrinks
The shrivelling happens because hemp fibres are stiffer and denser when they’re first spun. When washed, these fibres stretch and clump, causing minor shrinkage. Hemp fabric doesn’t shrink too much, so take this into consideration when you’re shopping or sewing with hemp fabric.
Managing Shrinkage
The only way to avoid shrinkage is to always wash hemp fabric following the instructions — with cold or lukewarm water, and do not heat on high. If you’re working with hemp fabric for clothing or other textile projects, purchase extra fabric to allow for shrinkage, especially if you’re using pre-washed or untreated hemp.
VIII. How to Treat Hemp Furniture and Upholstery Products?
Hemp fabrics are often used for upholstery, curtains, cushions, and bedding items because of their natural look, strength, and sustainability. So taking care of hemp-based home textiles takes a little time to ensure that they look and perform properly.
Washing Hemp-Based Upholstery Fabrics
Even upholstery of hemp fabric, including pillows, throws, or sheets, may need occasional washing. Because upholstery fabric is often heavier and more resistant than clothing, the washing method can vary.
Spot Cleaning and Using Slipcovers
Spot cleaning is recommended for small spills or stains. Rub the stain with a clean, wet cloth, using a mild detergent or natural soap. Don’t scrub it, this will ruin the fabric. For bigger spills or general cleaning, consider applying a slipcover that can shield the hemp upholstery cloth from further abrasion.
Washing Hemp Cushions and Covers
If the cushions/covers are washable and removable, do as the label says. As with clothes, do it on a slow cycle, with cold water and mild detergent. – Air dry or set the dryer on low.
Care for Hemp Curtains and Drapes
Hemp fabric is ideal for curtains and drapes because of its natural light absorbent properties and its aesthetic appeal. But cleaning these big items is a little trickier.
Washing Instructions for Large Hemp Bedroom Fabrics.
If you have heavy hemp curtains or drapes, you’ll need to hand-wash or wash them in a large washing machine. Wash on the warm setting using cold water and mild detergent. You must un-wash them quickly so that they do not wrinkle, and never air dry so that the fabric will remain a perfect fit.
The Advantages and Negatives of Dry Cleaning Hemp-Based Curtains
Some people will dry-clean them to get a more complete clean, but for hemp fabrics you’re better off not doing that. Dry cleaning can involve abrasive chemicals that might cause harm to the fabric or remove its oils. If you must dry clean your hemp curtains, be sure to use an eco-friendly cleaner and do not dry clean them often so that the fabric remains as natural as possible.
Dhanya Nair is a fabric Lover and a mom. She offers a unique perspective on the intricacies and history of fabric and specializes in bringing the unique narratives of textiles to life.