MOST IMPORTANT:

Your laundry detergent can wash out the cyanotype print.

Do not use detergents with these ingredients:

• Phosphates
• Alkaline chemicals
• Bleach sodium
• Borax
• Oxyclean
• Washing salts
• Baking soda
• Washing soda

Safe Detergents:

• Ingredients like sodium bicarbonate, vegetable-based surfactants, coconut-derived cleaners
• Labels like "free & clear", "baby safe", or "gentle"
• Brands: Earth Wash Sheets, ECOS Free & Clear, Seventh Generation Free & Clear, Dr. Bronner’s (diluted), Eucalan (for delicates), The Laundress (Delicate Wash)

Other washing tips:

• keep washing to a minimum! Don’t wash it unless you absolutely need to. This is good for all clothing, and for the environment. 
• Turn cyanotype clothing inside out to protect the print. 
• Handwashing is better, especially if you use washing machines that may have residues of laundry detergent, bleach, etc. in them that may mess with the image on your clothing.
• If you use a washing machine, use cool water temperatures, and consider running a cycle with other laundry and an approved detergent listed above to reduce residue from previous washes that could harm your clothing prior to putting your cyanotype clothing through the machine.

• Air drying is best
• If you need to tumble dry, dry alone on low heat.
• Don’t dry in direct sunlight. 
• If ironing is needed-- flip garment inside out and use low heat on the reverse side of the print
  

• Cyanotype is a UV photographic process and like all art is light sensitive.
• Avoid direct sunlight when drying or storing. Cool, dark places are best for storage to avoid excessive fading

If your piece fades significantly or you’d like a reprint or touch-up down the line, reach out! I offer limited restoration options and am always happy to chat about custom updates.

If your cyanotype fades over time, you can try these things yourself to restore the print: 

• Washing the print in a dilute bath of hydrogen peroxide can usually restore it to its original intensity.
• Washing soda will completely remove the print. If this occurs, you can tone the print in green tea, however the print will no longer be blue it will be a dark brown color. Please contact me if any of this happens and I’ll be happy to walk you through what to do!