Ramie, a strong and breathable natural fiber, requires careful handling to preserve its crispness, sheen, and durability.

Despite its strength, many misconceptions—such as believing it can withstand rough washing, high heat, or fabric softeners—can lead to damage. Understanding proper care ensures ramie maintains its texture, shape, and longevity.

In this guide, we’ll clarify common myths, explain best practices for washing, drying, ironing, and storage, and highlight special considerations for related fabrics like rhea or ramie canvas.

Common Misconceptions About Ramie

There are several common misconceptions about ramie that can lead to improper care. Understanding these myths helps preserve its strength, crispness, and breathable quality.

1. Ramie can handle rough washing – Actually, it loses strength when wet and needs gentle washing.
2. High heat during drying or ironing is safe – Excess heat causes shrinkage and stiffness; low heat or air drying is best.
3. Fabric softeners make ramie softer – They can reduce breathability; gentle washing naturally softens the fiber.
4. Ramie behaves like cotton or linen – Unlike cotton, ramie is less elastic and stays crisp.
5. Treating ramie like other fabrics won’t harm it – Improper handling can shorten its lifespan and damage its texture.

Best Practices for Ramie Care

To ensure your ramie items remain in top condition, it’s important to follow some basic care guidelines.

1. How to Wash Ramie
2. How to Dry Ramie
3. How to Iron and Press Ramie
4. How to Store Ramie

How to Wash Ramie

Handle ramie gently when washing, as the fiber weakens when wet. Use cold or lukewarm water with a mild liquid detergent without bleach or softeners.

Turn garments inside out to reduce surface abrasion. Hand washing is best, but a gentle machine cycle works if separated from heavy fabrics.

Press out excess water in a towel instead of wringing. For stains, test diluted detergent on a hidden area before treating the rest.

How to Dry Ramie

Dry ramie with good air circulation and low heat. Avoid hot dryers, as high temperatures can cause shrinkage and brittleness.

Lay the fabric flat on a towel or hang it in a shaded, ventilated area. If using a dryer, choose the lowest heat and remove items while still slightly damp.

Keep ramie away from rough surfaces or tight clips to avoid marks. Gradual drying maintains its drape and sheen.

How to Iron and Press Ramie

Iron ramie at medium temperature or on the “linen/cotton” setting. Use a steam iron or press while the fabric is slightly damp for best results.

Always iron on the reverse side or with a pressing cloth to protect the surface. Move the iron gently to avoid flattening the weave.

Light misting helps release wrinkles. Quick, light pressing gives structure without damage.

How to Store Ramie

Store ramie clean and fully dry to prevent mildew. Keep it in a cool, dry space away from sunlight and humidity.

Fold garments loosely to avoid stretching. If wrinkles appear, air or gently steam the fabric.

Use breathable cotton bags or acid-free tissue paper for protection. Avoid plastic containers, which trap moisture and weaken fibers.

Special Considerations When Caring for Ramie

Ramie is strong, smooth, and resists wrinkling. Gentle washing and drying with cold or lukewarm water and mild detergent keep its fibers intact.

High heat and harsh chemicals can weaken ramie and fade colors. Rope made from ramie should be rinsed in cool water and air dried, avoiding twisting or stretching when wet.

Canvas with ramie fibers benefits from spot cleaning and gentle washing. Iron on medium heat to restore shape without damage.

Caring for rhea, a related fiber, involves air drying and ironing while slightly damp to prevent scorching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ramie fabric suitable for sensitive skin?

Ramie is a natural, smooth, and breathable fiber. Most people with sensitive skin find it comfortable, as it contains no synthetic additives.

Some may experience mild irritation from plant fibers. Washing with gentle detergent before use can help soften the fabric and remove residues.

Does ramie fabric shrink after washing?

Ramie is durable and generally resists shrinking if washed correctly. High heat or vigorous machine cycles can cause slight tightening and minor shrinkage.

Wash in cold or lukewarm water and air dry in the shade to keep the weave stable and preserve luster.

Can you machine wash ramie fabric?

Ramie can be machine washed on a delicate or low-agitation cycle with mild detergent. Avoid strong detergents or bleach, which break down fibers.

Wash ramie separately or with light materials to reduce friction. Air drying flat or on a hanger helps keep its shape and texture.

How do you remove wrinkles from ramie fabric?

Ramie fabric comes from fine bast fibers and tends to wrinkle easily because it does not stretch much. To remove wrinkles, iron the fabric while it is still slightly damp using a low to medium heat setting.

Use a steam iron or place a pressing cloth over the fabric to protect it from heat marks. If you do not want to iron, hang the fabric in a steamy bathroom to relax light creases.

Avoid pressing directly on dry ramie, as this may weaken or flatten the fibers.