What is Corduroy?

Corduroy is a cotton fabric with a distinctive ribbed surface, known as “wales.” These raised ridges give corduroy its signature look and soft handle. The wales vary in width — from fine needlecords to wide, vintage-style jumbo cords — and are part of what makes this fabric so visually appealing.

How to Wash Corduroy?

Check the label first: Most corduroy garments can be machine washed, but some tailored items (especially jackets) may be dry clean only.

Turn inside out: This helps protect the wales from flattening or excessive rubbing during washing.

Wash in cold water: Use a gentle cycle and a mild detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners.

Don’t overload the machine: Give corduroy room to move to avoid crushing the pile.

How to Dry Corduroy?

Avoid the tumble dryer: High heat can shrink the fabric and damage the pile. Instead, hang or lay flat to air dry.

Shake out creases: Give garments a gentle shake before drying to help preserve the wales and reduce wrinkles.

How to Dry Corduroy?

Use a steamer when possible: This revives the nap without flattening it.

If ironing is necessary: Turn the garment inside out and iron on a low heat setting. You can also place a cloth between the iron and the fabric to protect the texture.

How to Store Corduroy

Hang tailored items like jackets and trousers to prevent creasing.

Fold casual garments carefully, ensuring the wales are not crushed or overly compressed.

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

General Corduroy Caring Tips

Avoid over-washing — spot clean minor marks and brush regularly to maintain the appearance between wears.

Corduroy may occasionally show pressure marks or a slight sheen where the pile is crushed (often from sitting). These can be gently lifted by brushing with a soft clothes brush in the direction of the wales, or by lightly steaming and teasing the pile with your fingers or a fabric brush.