How to best care for your Kapes uniformUpdated 10 months ago

To ensure longevity of your Kapes uniform, please follow the wash and care instructions relevant to each item. When in doubt, you can always refer to the care label inside the garment or find the care instructions in the help section or on the website when you click into a product.

Swimwear:

1. Rinse immediately after each use, with cool water to remove chlorine, salt, sand, and other residues.

2. Gently hand wash your swimwear with a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach, fabric softeners, or harsh detergents as these can damage the fabric and colors.

3. Avoid Soaking: Do not soak your swimwear for extended periods, as this can cause the fibers to break down and the colors to fade.

4. To dry, lay your swimwear flat in a shaded area. Avoid wringing out the fabric, as this can cause stretching and damage. Never put swimwear in the dryer or expose it to direct sunlight for extended periods, as excessive heat can cause the fabric to degrade and colors to fade.

Following these care instructions will help keep your swimwear looking and feeling great for many seasons to come.

Organic Cotton based garments:

1. Machine wash your organic cotton garments in cold water with a gentle cycle. This helps preserve the fabric's natural fibers and colors. Use a mild, eco-friendly detergent.

2. Wash with similar colours to prevent colour transfer. Dark and vibrant colours should be washed separately from light colours. Turn your garments inside out before washing to protect the outer surface and to reduce pilling and fading.

3. Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can weaken the fibers and fade the colours. Opt for a mild detergent that is free from optical brighteners and synthetic fragrances.

4. For best results, air dry your organic cotton garments. Lay them flat on a clean, dry surface or hang them up to dry. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause colours to fade. If you must use a dryer, tumble dry on a low heat setting. High heat can cause shrinkage and damage to the fabric.

5. Iron on a low heat setting. It’s best to iron organic cotton garments while they are slightly damp. 

6. Organic cotton garments don't need to be washed after every wear unless they are soiled. Over-washing can lead to wear and tear. Spot clean when possible.

By following these care instructions, you can help ensure your organic cotton garments stay soft, vibrant, and comfortable for a long time.

REPREVE garments (100% recycled polyester)

1. Wash your REPREVE garments in cold water on a gentle cycle. This helps to preserve the fabric and reduce energy consumption.

2. Use a mild, eco-friendly detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, as they can damage the fibers and affect the fabric's performance. Turn your garments inside out before washing. This helps protect the outer surface and maintain the appearance of the fabric.

3. Do not use high heat settings in the dryer, as this can cause the fabric to shrink. Tumble dry on a low heat setting or, for best results, air dry your garments.

4. REPREVE fabric is wrinkle-resistant, so ironing is typically unnecessary. If you need to remove wrinkles, use a steamer on a low setting, but avoid direct contact with the fabric.

5. For small stains or spills, spot clean your garments with a damp cloth and mild detergent to reduce the need for frequent washing.

By following these care instructions, you can help maintain the performance, appearance, and longevity of your 100% recycled polyester (REPREVE) items while also being mindful of the environment.