How to Safely Wash Clothes with Embroidery, Sequins, or Beads

Clothes with embroidery, sequins, or beads look elegant and stylish, but washing them can be tricky. If not handled properly, they can lose their shine, become tangled, or even fall apart. Many people avoid wearing such outfits frequently just to avoid washing difficulties. However, with the right care, you can keep them clean and beautiful without any damage.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best methods to safely wash clothes with embroidery, sequins, or beads while maintaining their beauty.

1. Check the Care Label

Before washing any delicate garment, always read the care label. Many embroidered or sequined clothes require dry cleaning or handwashing.

What to Look For?

• If the label says "Dry Clean Only," avoid machine washing.
• If it allows handwashing, use mild detergents.
• Some items may tolerate gentle machine washing, but always check the instructions.

2. Turn the Garment Inside Out

Turning the garment inside out protects the delicate details from rubbing against other clothes or the washing machine drum. This step prevents beads or sequins from loosening and reduces friction that can cause wear and tear.

3. Use a Laundry Bag

If you must use a washing machine, place the garment inside a mesh laundry bag. This reduces friction and damage while keeping beads and embroidery secure.

Additional Tip:

• For extra protection, place the garment inside a pillowcase and tie the ends before washing.

4. Choose the Right Washing Method

Depending on the fabric and embellishments, select the best washing method:

Handwashing (Recommended)

• Fill a basin with cold water.
• Add a few drops of mild detergent.
• Gently swirl the garment without rubbing or scrubbing.
• Let it soak for a few minutes and rinse with clean water.

Machine Washing (If Allowed)

• Use a gentle or delicate cycle.
• Set the temperature to cold water.
• Add a small amount of mild detergent.
• Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as they can weaken the threads.

5. Avoid Harsh Detergents

Strong detergents contain harsh chemicals that can fade embroidery or loosen sequins and beads. Use:

• Mild detergents made for delicate fabrics.
• Baby shampoo as a gentle alternative.

6. Never Wring or Twist the Fabric

Wringing or twisting delicate garments can break the stitching, damage beads, or cause sequins to fall off. Instead:

• Gently press the water out using your hands.
• Lay the garment flat on a towel, roll it up, and press lightly to absorb excess water.

7. Drying the Right Way

Drying embroidered or sequined clothes incorrectly can lead to fabric damage, fading, or stretching.

Best Drying Methods:

• Lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel.
• Reshape it and allow it to air dry in a shaded area.
• Avoid hanging delicate fabrics, as they can stretch out of shape.

What to Avoid?

• No direct sunlight: It can fade colors and weaken embroidery threads.
• No tumble drying: The heat and movement can damage embellishments.

8. Ironing with Care

Ironing embroidered, sequined, or beaded clothes directly can melt, flatten, or burn the delicate details. Instead:

• Use a low heat setting.
• Turn the garment inside out.
• Place a thin cotton cloth over the embroidery or sequins before ironing.
• Steam is a safer alternative to remove wrinkles without direct contact.

9. Proper Storage Matters

How you store delicate garments affects their longevity. To keep them safe:

• Fold and store them in a breathable fabric bag.
• Avoid hanging heavy embroidered garments, as they may stretch.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture.

10. When to Use Professional Cleaning Services

If your garment is highly delicate or has intricate beadwork, heavy embroidery, or fragile sequins, professional dry cleaning is the best option. A skilled cleaner knows how to safely wash clothes with embroidery without harming the details.

Conclusion

Washing clothes with embroidery, sequins, or beads doesn’t have to be stressful. By using gentle washing techniques, mild detergents, and proper drying methods, you can maintain their beauty for years. If you're unsure about washing a delicate garment yourself, consider online laundry services near you in Karachi for expert cleaning and fabric care.