The Best Tweed Clothing Care Methods
Tweed has been a central part to any classic country wardrobe since the 1800’s. This quintessentially British fabric can last through a lifetime when cared for properly.
Not only is it versatile and durable enough to last, but it’s a timeless classic that goes perfectly for time spent in the countryside. It’s warm and has a level of water resistance other clothing doesn’t have.
What is Tweed Clothing?
Tweed was Invented in the 18th century by Scottish farmers, and originally known as Clò-Mór in Gaelic. It was designed to keep them warm and dry through the harsh winters in the Highlands and woven to be as water resistant as possible.
An enduring fabric, the British aristocracy soon began to use it at their estates for their staff’s uniforms. When tweed was first produced, it was pattern-less but as production took off, patterns were able to be added and the gentry could commission a piece of cloth to be made specific to their estate.
By the 1840’s, the production of tweed had improved, and the aristocracy had realised the potential of this versatile, weather resistant cloth. They soon took it to their hearts, and it has become a staple of the country-set.
Making tweed is a complicated process and even though, nowadays, it is mechanised the process still needs organisation to ensure the vibrant and often intricate patterns can be produced.
Caring for Your Tweed Clothes
Although renowned for being tough, tweed is not indestructible. Tweed clothing care is an important part of keeping your favourite outfits looking their best as well as ensuring they retain their water resistant nature.
Allow tweed clothing to air after use - which might seem strange as they’re often worn outdoors, but you want to make sure any moisture trapped inside is given time to escape.
For a full clean however, you can look at dry cleaning or hand washing.
Dry Cleaning Your Tweed
If you don’t have time to wash your tweed by hand, always use a professional dry cleaner - preferably one with experience of working with tweed clothing.
These services have more specialised equipment, processes and supplies than you would at home and will make sure to return your clothing not only clean, but in pristine condition and ready for their next use.
Avoid Machine Washing Tweed
Tweed is a wool-based product and this is generally not a good idea to put in the washing machine. Wool clothing can shrink during a wash, as the speed and heat pumped through water alters the material.
As well as this, tumble drying is also not a good idea for similar reasons. Hanging your tweed clothes out to dry on a washing line should also be avoided, as when these items are wet, the extra weight will pull down and alter their shape.
This is why, if you do wash your tweed clothing, we recommend doing it by hand where you can control the temperature and products used. These need to be more sensitive than what you’d use on other clothing and materials. The steps below will help with handwashing tweed clothing.
How to Clean Tweed Clothing
Cleaning tweed clothing isn’t like other materials, and you don’t want to do anything that could damage these timeless pieces of your wardrobe. To help you keep your favourite tweed clothing looking perfect, follow these steps:
- Hand wash in cool, clean water. It should be, at most, 30 degrees.
- Use a very mild shampoo. Baby shampoo is a good choice.
- Gently squeeze out the suds. Do not wring, rub or stretch your garment.
- Rinse in fresh, clean, and cool water.
- Once more, gently squeeze out the water. Do not try to lift the garment, as it’s weight will cause the item to stretch.
- Spread the garment flat on a few towels and arrange it back into the shape it should be.
- Leave to dry naturally away from any direct heat or sunlight.
- You should store your tweed on a good quality padded hanger and cover the garment in plastic to prevent moths eating the fabric.
Keeping your tweed well cared for will keep you looking your best whatever whenever you decide to wear it, from a social function to a relaxing day in the countryside.
Find Out More About Tweed Clothing Care
Tweed Clothing is iconic and represents your love for the British countryside. It’s used in a number of sporting and social events, but regardless of whether you take part in these, it’s hardy enough to handle our unpredictable weather, too.
If you’d like to know more about our great range of men’s tweed clothing or our fantastic selection of ladies’ tweed jackets and blazers, then feel free to contact a member of our friendly team. We can also answer any questions you have about tweed clothing care and what you should do to keep your favourite items in great condition.
Men's Tweed at Holland's Country Clothing
