Disadvantaging: Shrinks in hot water and

wrinkles easily.

End uses: Blouses, dresses, skirks, pants, underwear, and linens.

Basic care: Machine wash with cold water, and for best quality, air drying is an ideal method for drying.

Example: Cotton T-shirt

Disadvantages: Wrinkles easy, can be expensive, and holds creases.

End uses: Dresses, suits, jackets, home furnishings, draperies, table lines, and dish towels.

Basic care: Machine washed or hand washed with the use of cold water. A light and gentle cycle should be used if machine washed.

Example: Linen towel

Disadvantages: Shrinks with heat and moisture, needs special care, and is scratchy on skin.

End uses: Sweaters, coats, jackets, suits, skirts, socks, scarves, carpet, upholstery, and blankets.

Basic care: Hand wash in cold water and use of soft detergent.

Example: Wool sweater

Disadvantages: Expensive, needs special care, dry cleaning, and stains with water.

End uses: Evening gowns, wedding gowns, lingerie, scarves, neckties, curtains, and decorative pillows.

Basic care: Machine wash with a light detergent on a delicate cycle.

Example: Silk shirt

Disadvantages: Scarce and expensive.

End uses: Coats, jackets, shoes, hand bags, gloves, belts, upholstery, and decorating accessories.

Basic care: Avoid water, and wipe with a damp cloth if necessary.

Example: Leather shoes

Disadvantages: Scarce and expensive.

End uses: Coats, jackets, hats, bed throws, and rugs.

Basic care: Hand dry in a ventilated room, do not blow dry

Example: Fur coat