How Do You Properly Care For Hanfu Garments？

Hanfu care is essential for enthusiasts who treasure the elegance of traditional Chinese garments. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hanfu wearer, knowing how to wash hanfu and fold hanfu properly ensures your garments remain vibrant and pristine. From delicate silk to sturdy cotton, different hanfu fabric types require specific care techniques. In this guide, we share five vital tips to master hanfu care, covering washing, drying, and folding methods. Let’s keep your hanfu looking flawless!

How to Wash and Fold Hanfu？

How do you wash hanfu? And how do you fold it after drying? These are top questions for every hanfu lover out there!
What’s the best way to clean hanfu made of specific fabrics? How do you fold it neatly?
While most hanfu can go straight into the washing machine, some fabrics have special care needs. We’ve rounded up a guide to fabric types, their quirks, and the best washing methods, plus a folding tutorial! Let’s dive in.

The key to washing hanfu depends on its fabric. Not sure what your hanfu is made of? Ask the seller! Common fabrics include linen, polyester, cotton-linen blends, chiffon, and silk. With summer heat here, lightweight fabrics like linen, chiffon, and silk are the season’s go-to choices.

Pro Tip: Always wash hanfu inside out, preferably by hand. If using a washing machine, pop it in a laundry bag. Dark hanfu might bleed color on the first wash, so wash darks and lights separately. For deep-colored hanfu (like that vibrant red you love!), soak in warm saltwater for 30 minutes to minimize fading.

Tip 1: Identify Your Hanfu Fabric Types

The first step in hanfu care is knowing your fabric. Common hanfu materials include silk, linen, cotton, polyester, chiffon, and cotton-linen blends. Each requires specific handling to avoid damage. For instance, silk hanfu needs gentle hand washing, while cotton can handle machine washing with care. Check the label or ask your seller if you’re unsure about your hanfu’s fabric type. For a detailed fabric guide, visit this hanfu fabric resource.

Tip 2: Master Washing Techniques for Hanfu

1. Cotton Fabrics

Cotton hanfu might shrink a bit on the first wash, so soak it in water for a few minutes before washing—but not too long, to protect the colors. Cotton’s tough, so don’t stress! Hand wash or machine wash (use a laundry bag), or send it to the dry cleaner if it’s super dirty or you’re short on time.

2. Linen Fabrics

Linen is stiff and less clingy, so wash it more gently than cotton. Avoid hard brushes or rough scrubbing to prevent fuzzing, and don’t twist it hard when wringing. Hand wash or machine wash (with a laundry bag) works, or opt for dry cleaning if it’s grimy or you want to play it safe.

3. Polyester Fabrics

Soak polyester hanfu in cold water for 15 minutes, then wash with standard detergent at a water temperature below 45°C. For dirty collars or cuffs, use a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly, lightly twist, and dry in a cool, ventilated spot. No direct sunlight or dryers—they can cause wrinkles! Other synthetic fabrics follow similar rules.

4. Cotton-Linen and Linen Blends

Cotton-linen or pure linen hanfu wrinkles easily, so twist gently when wringing. The leftover moisture helps smooth out creases during drying, giving you a flatter, neater look.

5. Chiffon

Chiffon’s pretty low-maintenance—basically, you can twist it however you want! Hand wash or machine wash (in a laundry bag) is fine, or take it to the dry cleaner for tough stains or if you’re feeling lazy.

6. Silk Fabrics

Silk is delicate, so treat it with care. Gently twist to remove water and hand wash only. For stubborn stains or convenience, dry cleaning is your best bet—perfect for those Tang-inspired silk ruqun or red mamian qun you adore!

Tip 3: Focus on Easy-to-Dirty Areas

The collar edges and skirt hems (qunbai) are hanfu’s dirt magnets, especially the hem—every wearer knows it’s a grime hotspot! If not cleaned properly, hanfu can yellow or look worn after a few wears. Hand washing is the way to go for these tricky spots to keep your hanfu looking fresh.

Tip 4: Dry Hanfu to Prevent Damage

Drying is a critical part of hanfu care. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can fade colors, especially on silk and chiffon. Flip your hanfu inside out, shake it gently, and hang it flat on a hanger or drying net. For larger pieces, thread a pole through the sleeves for even drying. Iron lightly after drying for a polished finish. Learn more about drying techniques at this hanfu care blog.

Last step: folding! If you’re low on closet space (or just prefer folding), focus on three things: straighten, flatten, and fold in half. Nail these, and your hanfu will stack neatly. Lazy folks can always hang it up—no judgment!

Conclusion

With these five tips, you’re equipped to wash and fold hanfu like a pro, ensuring your garments remain vibrant and elegant. By understanding hanfu fabric types and tailoring your care routine, you’ll preserve the cultural beauty of these pieces. Ready to elevate your hanfu care game? Start today, and your hanfu will thank you with lasting charm!