Care Guide

Our garments and leather goods are crafted with longevity at their core. Our ambition is to create collections that can be worn for a lifetime and passed on to future generations. We strive to achieve this by carefully selecting high-quality materials that require minimal finishing treatments, such as coatings, and by using yarn-dyed, high-quality dyed, or undyed fabrics. As a result, the colours and textures develop a beautiful patina over time, becoming even more characterful with age.

To help our collections last a lifetime, we’ve gathered guidance through our own research and in collaboration with industry experts. Below, you’ll find care recommendations that will help you preserve the quality and longevity of your garments and leather goods. If you have a specific question that is not answered below, please feel free to reach out to care@thegroveline.com to ensure the right treatment.

Linen / Hemp

  • Wash at 30–40 degrees Celsius maximum, on a gentle wash cycle and low spin cycle.
  • Use a biological, eco-friendly washing detergent and avoid fabric softener.
  • Turn garments inside out to help retain colour, especially for dark colours.
  • Separate the wash loads by similar colours and avoid over-filling the machine.
  • Always dry on a drying rack – don’t put them in the tumble dryer. Reshape the garment while lying flat on the rack.
  • When spot cleaning, clean stains with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can damage the fibres.
  • Linen and hemp can both be ironed turned inside out. Steaming is always recommended.

Cotton

  • Wash at 30–40 degrees Celsius maximum, on a gentle wash cycle and low spin cycle.
  • Use a biological, eco-friendly washing detergent and avoid fabric softener.
  • Turn garments inside out to help retain colour, especially for dark colours.
  • Separate the wash loads by similar colours and avoid over-filling the machine.
  • Always dry on a drying rack – don’t put them in the tumble dryer. Reshape the garment while lying flat on the rack.
  • When spot cleaning, clean stains with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can damage the fibres.
  • Cotton can be ironed turned inside out. Steaming is always recommended.

Wool

Our woven wool garments are either raw (undyed) or made with little treatment, so it’s best to air the garments regularly outside overnight. Hanging the garments next to the shower so they can absorb the steam also helps. Wool is naturally odour-resistant and self-cleaning – airing your garment outside or in a well-ventilated room is often enough to refresh it. Spot-clean only when necessary, and when dry cleaning, always use a reputable service.

  • Brush your garments – especially coats and coarser wool fabrics – regularly with a soft brush to remove dust and dirt. Brush from top to button, in the weaving direction of the fabric.
  • Spills from food or blood happen. Spot clean stains with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can damage the fibres.
  • Steam your wool garments instead of ironing them (fine wool trousers included). The steam helps remove wrinkles and refresh the fabric. If ironing is necessary, use the wool setting on your iron and a pressing cloth.
  • Hang coats and jackets on wide, shaped hangers to support their structure. Fold knitwear instead of hanging it to prevent stretching.
  • For in-between seasons, store the garments in a breathable cotton garment bag with natural moth repellents such as cedar or lavender.

Cow leather

Our oak bark tanned leather develops a rich patina and softness through everyday wear. It is finished using natural tannins rather than synthetic chrome tanning, so it remains breathable and develops character over time. Exposure to sunlight, handling, and daily use will gradually deepen its colour and create a unique patina. Minor scratches, colour changes, and a deepening of the leather’s tone are natural characteristics of oak bark tanned leather and part of its beauty.

  • If the leather gets wet, wipe excess moisture with a soft cloth and allow it to air dry naturally at room temperature.
  • To keep the leather well-conditioned, apply a small amount of natural leather balm once or twice a year, or whenever the leather begins to feel dry.
  • Wipe away dust and dirt with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid harsh soaps, detergents, and chemical cleaners.
  • We recommend avoiding direct contact with light coloured garments and surfaces to prevent colour transfer.

Goat leather

Our goat leather is tanned using only natural vegetable tannins. Over time, the leather becomes softer and develops its own unique patina.

  • We do not recommend applying leather balm to Urushi goat leather. The Urushi lacquer forms a breathable protective layer that becomes even more supple through regular use.
  • Urushi goat leather is designed for everyday use. To preserve its beauty, store your product in its original dust bag when not in use, and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, excessive heat, and humidity.
  • Use a paper filling to preserve its shape when stored.
  • When cleaning, avoid rubbing the leather too firmly, as this may remove colour or leave scratches.

Repairs

Garments are made to be worn, so signs of wear and tear or accidental damage are simply part of their life. Please have your garments repaired by a local tailor or get in touch with us.

If our leather goods show signs of wear, many components, such as the buckle or the stitching, can be repaired or replaced. Our leather goods are designed to be maintained rather than discarded, extending their lifespan for many years.

In our Atelier in Antwerp we repair damaged pieces – you only need to cover the shipping costs. If you’re in Antwerp, you’re also welcome to drop off and collect your garment in person.

Our buttons are attached to hold a lifetime. If a button does get loose, please mail us at care@thegroveline.com and we will send you a replacement button for free.