Garment care, the not so sexy yet important tips to extend the life of your clothes
It's not rocket science that if you take care of your clothes they last longer, but who has the time to master the intricacies of caring for each garment type? You know we are all about practical and easy advice around here, so we have compiled a quick cheat guide. Consider this a starting point.
Washing
COLDWATER WASH EVERYTHING unless it requires dry cleaning. And if it does go to an eco-friendly dry cleaner, typically they would use less harsh chemical methods - this might require a little research.
Back to the water, think of what happens to your skin when it comes in contact with heat, ouch! What makes you think heat to clothing especially natural fabrics is a good idea... exactly. Using cold water means your clothes are less likely to shrink or fade. Bonus, it’s the right thing to do for the environment.
Additionally, avoid over washing. Most natural fabrics like wool can go a few wears between washes.
Drying
Did you know that your dryer uses hot air to dry your clothing? Heat again is best in moderation. Adjust the temperature setting on your dryer to low - most dryers have a magical temperature adjusting button you have probably never noticed before.
Where possible hang to dry - except sweaters, lay those flat because the weight of the water when wet will stretch them out and we don’t want that.
Bonus: For the most part clothes that are hung to dry need less ironing and that’s a win on the time-saving front.
Storage
We get this question a lot - What’s the best way to organize my closet, store off-season clothing, etc. How you keep your clothing is just as important as how you launder it.
Get ready for a metaphor of sorts. Think of your closet like a plate of food. It doesn’t matter how good the food is, if it’s just tossed on a plate without thought you are less inclined to taste it. When organizing your closet keep that in mind, a pleasant-looking closet inspires style creativity
If you have worked with us before you are probably reading the next line in Ceecee’s voice. “ Get rid of plastic hangers now.” They are often ugly and in our opinion not great for your clothes. Consider space-saving velvet hangers the bonus is your clothes won’t slip off.
Fold all sweaters, unless they are lightweight. Again the weight of the sweater will cause stretching if hang. Off-season, dry clean/wash your sweaters before storing and store in an airtight and dry place. This goes for all other clothes, mould is a thing in dump conditions - we want none of that. If you want to get fancy add some dryer sheets in between your folds for that fresh scent.
Dress pants should be hung along the existing crease, jeans can be hung or folded. Tshirts are best in the drawer for space-saving.
Ironing
Although garment care can get more detailed, these quick tips will help you elongate the life of your clothing.
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