Proper washing and care of polyester-cotton fabrics can help maintain their appearance, durability, and color retention. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

    Read the care label: Always check the care label on the garment or fabric to find specific washing instructions. The care label provides valuable information about the recommended washing temperature, drying instructions, and any other special care requirements.

    Washing temperature: Use cold or lukewarm water (30°C or 86°F) when washing polyester-cotton fabrics. Avoid hot water, as it can cause shrinkage and damage to the fibers.

    Use mild detergent: Choose a mild liquid detergent that is suitable for both polyester and cotton fabrics. Harsh detergents can break down the fibers and cause color fading.

    Turn inside out: Before washing, turn the garment inside out. This helps protect the outer surface from abrasion and reduces friction during washing.

    Separate colors: Wash similar colors together to prevent dye transfer. If the fabric is new or known to bleed color, consider washing it separately or with like colors for the first few washes.

    Avoid bleach: Do not use chlorine bleach on polyester-cotton fabrics, as it can damage the fibers and lead to color fading. If needed, use oxygen bleach or a color-safe bleach following the manufacturer's instructions.

    Gentle cycle: Use the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine to minimize wear and tear on the fabric.

    Skip fabric softeners: Fabric softeners can leave residues on the fabric and reduce its absorbency. It's best to avoid using fabric softeners on polyester-cotton fabrics.

    Handwashing: For delicate or highly colored items, consider handwashing in cold water using a gentle detergent.

    Drying: Polyester-cotton fabrics can be tumble dried on low heat, but it's best to remove them from the dryer while still slightly damp to minimize wrinkles. If possible, air drying is gentler on the fabric and can help preserve its shape and color.

    Ironing: If ironing is necessary, use a low to medium heat setting. If the fabric has a high polyester content, avoid using a high heat setting, as excessive heat can melt the polyester fibers.

    Storage: Store polyester-cotton garments in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and discoloration.