Garment Care & Maintenance Washing, Drying & Ironing Like prescription drugs, always read and follow the label. More than once I have ruined a garment by not following the washing instructions correctly, and one time I ruined a white t-shirt by accidently washing it with colours that were not colour-fast (see Definitions). I had to replace the t-shirt – thank goodness it wasn’t pricey. Beware of reds! Not every garment of the same fabric has the same care instructions. Usually silk – a natural fibre – is dry clean only, but many brands now make washable silk. On the opposite side, polyester, which is a man-made material, is usually wash…