Whether it's a comfy pair of jeans, a loose knit or the kids' tee shirts, cotton comes in a huge variety of weights and textures. Lightweight cottons should be washed and dried separately from heavier fabrics such as denim and corduroy. Wash using a cycle and detergent that's right for the colour of the load (refer to the temperature on the care label). Use a low heat setting on the dryer or, if delicate, reshape the garment and dry flat.

This incredibly strong synthetic fabric is often blended with cotton and wool to give them durability. Polyester is resistant to creasing, helping clothes keep their shape and as it comes in many different weights and textures should be sorted accordingly. It's an easy care fabric, so you can wash it in your machine in warm water or by hand. A fabric softener will help reduce static and the best method of drying is either to drip dry or lay flat.

It's the good looking, crisp textured, warm weather classic. A wonderfully strong fabric, linen is prone to creasing and can become mildewed if not dried thoroughly. Linen is often dry-cleaned however if it is machine washable, use a temperature that’s right for the colour, remembering that it can shrink (refer to care label). Linen soaks up plenty of water during the wash, so it's better not to pack your machine to capacity. Tumble dry on a cool setting or hang dry. Dry white linen in the sun.

With its silky feel and elegant drape, rayon makes beautiful skirts, evening dresses and shirts. As it is a delicate fabric check the label to make sure it's washable. If it is, hand wash or machine wash on the gentle cycle with cool water and a mild detergent. Remove from the machine immediately without spin-drying and roll in a towel to remove excess water. Reshape and hang on a padded hanger or dry flat towel.

Luxurious silk is a favourite for sleepwear and eveningwear and is even coming out of the closet in daywear such as tops, skirts and dresses. To care for this beautiful fabric, check the label first to make sure it's washable. If so, choose the hand wash or special silk cycle on your machine using lukewarm water and a mild liquid soap for woollens or delicates. When hand washing use liquid soap in lukewarm water.

A natural insulator, wool comes in a huge variety of weights, textures and constructions - from chunky knits to fine jersey. Many need to be dry-cleaned but some can be hand washed or washed in your machine on the wool cycle in lukewarm water. Special wool wash liquids give the best results and remember to handle wet wool with care, as this is when the fibres are the weakest. Never wring and always dry flat on a towel to absorb excess water. Do not use detergents containing enzymes.