Which ABU care actions are prohibited because they deteriorate the fiber and shorten wear life?

• A. Ironing, washing, and air drying
• B. Starching, hot pressing, and dry cleaning
• C. Spot cleaning only
• D. Hand washing, line drying, and bleaching

Answer: (B)

Some care actions harm the fabric and shorten wear life by stressing or chemically altering the fibers. Starching coats the fabric with starch, making it stiff and adding buildup that can trap moisture and dirt; over time this stiffness and rigidity can lead to fiber fatigue and cracking. Hot pressing applies high heat and pressure, which can scorch or distort the fibers and weaken the weave, reducing durability. Dry cleaning uses solvents that can strip finishes and weaken fibers, also contributing to fading and wear. Collectively, these actions are prohibited because they directly degrade the material, shortening its service life.