A soft pajama through many washes, tips
Short answer: A pajama stays soft through many washes if you wash it gently, use a little detergent and avoid high heat. Viscose from bamboo needs a little extra thought. Here are the simple steps that help the fabric keep its shape and feel.
Read the care label first
The care label is your best guide, because it tells you how hot you may wash and whether tumble drying is allowed. Keep the label, or take a photo of it if you cut it out. Follow the temperature, since it is set by what the fabric tolerates. If you doubt, choose a lower temperature rather than a higher one.
Wash gently and turn it inside out
Choose a gentle cycle and turn the pajama inside out, so the surface wears less. Close zips and buttons so they do not catch on other clothes. Wash it with clothes of the same colour and a similar kind of fabric, and avoid heavy items such as jeans and towels.
Bamboo pajamas and detergent
With bamboo pajamas the point is not to use too much detergent, because residue can stay in the fabric and make it stiff. Choose a mild product without strong additives. Fabric softener can make the fabric smooth for a while, but in the long run too much can coat the fibres, so use it sparingly or leave it out.
Drying without losing the shape
Viscose can lose its shape if it is wrung out or dried hard. Shake the pajama out lightly and lay or hang it so it keeps its shape. Air drying is the gentlest way. If the label allows tumble drying, use low heat and take it out while it is still slightly damp.
Storage and changing
Have at least two pajamas, so you can change and each wears less. Store them folded in a drawer and not pressed into a box, so they do not get creases. Wash them after three to four nights, or more often if you sweat, so moisture and skin oils do not stay in the fabric.
Stains and accidents
Treat stains quickly. Rinse cold water through and dab with a mild product, but do not rub, because that can damage the surface. Do not use bleach on coloured clothes. If the stain is old, let it soak in cold water for a while before you wash it on the normal programme.
A pajama that should last
If you are looking for a pajama that should last, pajamas for women lets you compare fabric and seams. Check that the seams are even and that the waistband does not pull. A well-sewn set lasts better in the wash than one where the seams already look thin.
When it wears out anyway
If you notice that the fabric has become thin or has pilled, let the pajama become loungewear and buy a new one for the night. Look at bamboo sleepwear for women or a bamboo jogging suit for women if you want a new set. A gentle wash at the start helps the next one last longer.
Frequently asked questions
How often should a pajama be washed
After three to four nights, or more often if you sweat. Always follow the care label for temperature and programme. If you have two sets, you can alternate and spare the fabric.
Can a viscose pajama go in the tumble dryer
It depends on the label. Viscose can lose its shape at high heat, so air drying is the safest. If the label allows it, use low heat and take it out while it is slightly damp.
How do I avoid pilling
Turn the pajama inside out, wash it with soft clothes and choose a gentle cycle. Avoid washing with jeans and towels, which rub the surface.
