Corduroy is a warm, durable fabric often associated with cooler weather, found in cozy pants and jackets. Made by weaving three fibers together—commonly cotton or a cotton/polyester blend—corduroy is then sheared to create wales, or the soft ridges that give it a plush texture.
A key consideration in caring for corduroy is managing lint, as its napped surface attracts lint easily. When washing, never combine corduroy with lint-shedding materials like cotton towels or fleece. For best results, always check the care labels of your garments; if a label advises “Dry Clean Only,” it’s important to follow this recommendation to maintain the structure of items like jackets, which may have machine-washable exteriors but fragile interior components.
Handwashing corduroy is best done by handling each piece individually to avoid any unintended damage. Using these careful washing methods can extend the fabric’s life and keep your clothes in excellent condition.
