Our clothes are incredibly important. Yes, they help us to look great and feel confident, but even if you have no interest in fashion, the clothes that you wear protect you from the elements and keep you warm. Clothing goes through a lot of wear and tear, and will never last forever, but as more of us are looking for ways to do our bit for the environment, reducing textile waste, and making our clothes and shoes last longer, is an important step. Here are some great tips to help you.
Read the Care Label
The care label on your clothes is not just a suggestion; it’s essential information that will help you to take care of your clothes properly. Every garment comes with a label that indicates how it should be washed, dried, and ironed. Make sure to read and follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your clothes.
Wash Less Often
Most of us are guilty of washing clothes every time we wear them. While you should wash things like your underwear and socks after each wear, other things, like jeans, and especially things like jumpers that you usually wear over another product and away from your skin, can be worn several times before they need washing. Get into the habit of smelling clothes to judge their cleanliness and sponging off small marks instead of throwing things into the wash without thinking.
Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Washing clothes in hot water can cause shrinkage, fading, and damage to the fabric. Instead, wash your clothes in cold water to prevent these problems. Cold water is also better for the environment and will save you money on your energy bills.
Use a Gentle Detergent
Using a harsh detergent can damage the fibres of your clothes, making them wear out faster. Instead, use a gentle detergent that is designed for delicate fabrics. This will help to protect your clothes and keep them looking new for longer.
Avoid Overloading the Washing Machine
If you overload the washing machine,this can cause your clothes to rub against each other, resulting in damage and wear. Make sure to only wash a few items at a time, and never overload the washing machine.
Store Your Clothes Properly
Storing your clothes properly is essential for preserving their condition. Make sure to hang your clothes on hangers instead of folding them and avoid overcrowding your closet. This will help to prevent wrinkles and damage to the fabric.
Treat Stains Immediately
Treating stains immediately is essential for preventing them from setting into the fabric. Use a stain remover or soak the affected area in cold water before washing to remove the stain.
Repair
A small hole doesn’t mean that clothing needs to be thrown away. Try to sew, or patch as much as you can and only replace things when you can’t get any more life out of them.
Look After Your Shoes
Clothes aren’t the only things that we can make last a little longer. Polish your shoes with Saphir to protect them from the elements, clean mud off your outdoor boots as soon as you get in, and get shoes resoled if needed, instead of replacing them at the first sign of damage.
By looking after your clothes and shoes you are doing your bit for the environment and saving yourself money. Get into good habits, and you’ll soon start to find that your clothes and shoes last much longer.
