Looking after your garments correctly will help them last longer and keep them looking their best.
The information below provides general garment care guidelines. For specific care instructions, always refer to the care label attached to your garment, as care requirements can vary between fabrics and styles.
Always Check the Care Label
Every Max garment is tested to determine the most appropriate care instructions. For the best results, always follow the care label on your individual garment, as it contains the most accurate care information for that specific item.
General Care Tips
- Choose cold or warm wash cycles where possible, as high temperatures can damage fabrics.
- Avoid excessive tumble drying, which can cause shrinkage and wear.
- Keep coloured garments out of direct sunlight to help prevent fading.
- For difficult stains, seek professional cleaning advice rather than experimenting with stain removers.
- Use whiteners instead of bleach where appropriate.
- For delicate fabrics, choose a gentle or natural detergent.
- Use only the recommended amount of detergent and ensure it is fully dissolved before washing.
- Garments with linings are often best dry cleaned, although some may be suitable for hand washing or delicate machine washing. Always check the care label first.
Washing Your Garments
To help maintain the quality and fit of your clothing:
- Air and dry garments before placing them in the wash.
- Empty pockets and undo buttons before washing.
- Avoid overloading the washing machine.
- Wash at the temperature recommended on the care label.
- Dark-coloured garments may release excess dye during the first few washes and should be washed separately or with similar colours.
- Use cold water where possible and avoid soaking garments for extended periods.
- When hand washing, ensure detergent is fully dissolved before adding the garment.
- Rinse thoroughly after washing.
- Avoid rubbing delicate fabrics; gently squeeze excess water out instead.
Drying Your Garments
Proper drying helps maintain shape and appearance.
- Lay heavy garments flat to prevent stretching.
- Avoid drying garments in direct sunlight or strong winds.
- Ensure indoor drying areas are well ventilated.
- Wrap knitwear in a towel to absorb excess moisture and lay flat to dry.
- Some garments may lose their shape during washing; gently reshape them while damp and lay flat to dry.
Ironing Your Garments
- Always follow the ironing instructions on the care label.
- Use a low heat setting unless otherwise specified.
- Ensure garments are completely dry before ironing.
- For delicate fabrics, iron on the reverse side using a pressing cloth.
Fabric Care Guide
Wool
- Wool can shrink when washed in hot water.
- Hanging wool garments to dry may cause them to lose their shape.
- Some wool garments may develop pilling with wear, which often reduces over time.
Silk
Most silk garments are best dry cleaned. Always check the care label before washing.
If hand washing is recommended:
- Use a mild detergent.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Do not soak or bleach.
- Dry flat in the shade.
- Do not tumble dry.
- Iron on a cool setting using a pressing cloth on the reverse side if required.
Some Max silk garments are machine washable. This will be clearly stated on the care label.
Static and Silk: Because silk garments are packaged for delivery, static can occasionally build up during transit. See our tips below for reducing static cling.
Cotton
- Cotton may shrink when washed in warm or hot water.
- Wash coloured cotton garments separately for the first wash.
- Cotton is durable and comfortable but may fade and crease over time.
- Cotton can generally be ironed at a higher temperature.
Linen
- Hand wash where recommended by the care label.
- Avoid warm or hot water.
- Do not tumble dry.
- Linen can be ironed at a high temperature.
- Linen is breathable and lightweight but creases easily and may fade over time.
Lyocell, Tencel™, Acetate, Rayon & Viscose
To maximise garment life:
- Hand wash in cold water using a mild detergent.
- Do not tumble dry.
- These fabrics can shrink during washing and drying.
- If shrinkage occurs, a low to warm iron on the reverse side can help relax the fibres and restore the garment's original shape and length.
- These fabrics are naturally prone to creasing.
Polyester & Nylon
- Wash in cool water.
- Avoid high heat when drying.
- Use a low iron setting and avoid steam where recommended.
- Polyester and nylon are generally wrinkle-resistant and less prone to fading.
Tips for Reducing Static Cling
If your garment develops static:
- Apply moisturiser before wearing.
- Use talcum powder after moisturising if desired.
- Rub an anti-static dryer sheet over the inside of the garment.
- Use an anti-static spray.
- Lightly mist the garment with water using a spray bottle.
- Wear an anti-static slip underneath dresses or skirts.