With the devastating environmental effects of fast fashion being brought to the forefront, the eco-conscious among us are looking for ways to make our wardrobe last longer without the need to cycle through clothes season-by-season.
If you’re interested in getting the most out of every item in your wardrobe, this article discusses six ways to care for your clothes to make them last longer.
Wash Less Frequently
Washing your clothes too often can cause the fabrics to wear out faster. So, unless they’re dirty or smelly, don’t be so quick to put your clothes in the washing machine after you’ve worn them for a day.
Items like jeans and jumpers usually don’t need to be washed after every wear. If you need to, you can spot-clean and air out your clothes between washes to help them stay fresh without subjecting them to a full wash.
Follow Care Labels
Different fabrics can withstand different cleaning methods, so make sure to always check the care labels on your clothes before you wash or iron them.
Care labels are easy to ignore, but they’re there to help you look after the fabric, so give them the attention they deserve. Custom clothing labels like those offered by Labeloom Label Services can also be useful if you’re making your own clothes, so your customers or family members know how to look after the item.
Wash at Lower Temperatures
Washing your clothes at lower temps is gentler on fabrics and prevents them from shrinking or fading.
Keep in mind that most everyday clothes can be washed at 30°C and still get clean, so don’t go for the hottest wash possible because you’re concerned about smells or lingering dirt—it’s often not necessary!
Air Dry When You Can
Tumble dryers can weaken the fibres in your clothes and cause them to shrink. With that in mind, it’s better to hang your clothes on a line or drying rack if you want them to keep their shape and last longer.
If you can’t imagine not using a dryer, use a low heat setting at the very least.
Store Your Clothes Correctly
Did you know that there are right and wrong ways to store your clothes when it comes to supporting their longevity?
For example, you should always fold knitwear and put it in a drawer instead of hanging it to prevent it from stretching at the shoulders. It’s also worth investing in some padded hangers for delicate fabric, and storing your clothes in breathable garment bags if you’re putting them away for a long time.
Rotate Your Closet
Wearing the same clothes all the time wears them out faster, and you’re more likely to get bored of something you see hanging in your closet year-round.
Rotating your closet helps spread the wear more evenly across your clothes and makes you less likely to impulsively throw out clothes you’re sick of—only to wish you’d kept hold of them a few months down the line.
Takeaway
Looking after your clothes properly is the best way to help them last longer and keep your wardrobe in better shape.
As a result, you can appreciate what you already own and avoid buying as much, which is better for your wallet and the environment.
Published by HOLR Magazine.