Natural Fibres (Junior Cert Home Economics): Revision Notes

Natural Fibres

Fibres Overview

Fibres are thin threads used to create textiles.

They are divided into two main types:

1. Natural Fibres
2. Human-Made Fibres

Natural Fibres

Natural fibres come from plants or animals.

Wool

Source	Sheep, goats, alpacas, and rabbits.
Properties	• Warm and insulating.
	• Absorbs moisture.
	• Can shrink easily if not cared for.
	• Scratches easily on sensitive skin.
Uses	• Clothing: Coats, scarves, suits, socks.
	• Household: Carpets, rugs, blankets.
Care	• Hand wash in lukewarm water or dry clean.
	• Do not tumble dry or iron on high heat.

Silk

Source	Cocoons of silkworms.
Properties	• Soft, smooth, and lightweight.
	• Drapes well.
	• Delicate and expensive.
Uses	• Clothing: Dresses, shirts, blouses, ties.
	• Household: Cushions, curtains, bed linen.
Care	• Hand wash in warm water with a mild detergent.
	• Avoid sunlight and heat while drying.
	• Iron inside out on low heat.

Cotton

Source	Cotton plant.
Properties	• Strong and durable.
	• Absorbs moisture and breathable.
	• Creases easily.
Uses	• Clothing: T-shirts, jeans, dresses.
	• Household: Bed linen, curtains, towels.
Care	• Machine washable at high temperatures.
	• Iron while slightly damp.
	• Can be tumble dried at low heat.

Linen

Source	Flax plant.
Properties	• Strong and durable.
	• Absorbs moisture.
	• Creases very easily.
Uses	• Clothing: Shirts, suits, dresses.
	• Household: Tablecloths, upholstery.
Care	• Wash at high temperatures (40–95°C).
	• Iron while damp to reduce creasing.
	• Store fully dry to avoid mildew.

Quick Key Notes

• Wool: Warm but shrinks easily; handle with care.
• Silk: Luxury fibre; soft but delicate.
• Cotton: Strong and easy to care for; perfect for everyday use.
• Linen: Durable but creases easily; ideal for summer clothing.

Care of Natural Fibres

• Wool: Hand wash in lukewarm water or dry clean; avoid stretching or heat.
• Silk: Hand wash in warm water, avoid direct sunlight; iron on low heat.
• Cotton: Machine washable, iron while damp; tumble dry on low.
• Linen: Wash at high temperatures, iron damp; prone to creasing. 📌 Key Note: Natural fibres are sustainable but require special care to maintain their properties.