Last updated on May 5th, 2024 at 03:17 pm
One of the best ways to keep your clothes looking new is to care for them properly. With a few simple tips, you can extend the lifespan of your clothing and save money in the long run. Today, we’ll discuss how to care for your clothes so they stay looking new for longer.
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Wash Your Clothes Less
Washing your clothes frequently can cause wear and tear in the long run. You may not see the effects of washes today, but in the coming years, you’ll notice that your favourite garments become dull and fade after too many washes. Try to wash your clothes only when it’s necessary. If clothing doesn’t smell or look dirty, you can skip a round of washing it. Air the item to remove any odours, and only wash it when necessary.
Read The Care Labels On Your Clothing Before Washing
Taking the time to read and properly follow the care labels on your clothing is essential to keeping them looking their best for longer. Not only do these little labels help ensure that you are taking proper care of your garments, but they can also help keep them from becoming damaged or discoloured due to improper wash or drying techniques. It is important to remember that certain fabrics require special treatment for washing and drying. Following the instructions on the care label will ensure you properly care for your clothing items. In addition, keeping up with their care items helps ensure you get plenty of use out of each item without creating unnecessary wear-and-tear damage over time.
Wash In Cold Water
One of the most important tips for properly caring for your clothes is to wash them in cold water. Washing in cold water helps stabilise colours and prevent colours from running, bleeding, and fading, keeping your garments looking vibrant. More importantly, it saves energy by drastically reducing energy consumption (especially when using hot or warm water). Cold water washes can be as effective as hotter ones using a detergent formulated for colder temperatures.
Wash Your Clothes Inside Out
This practice can help prevent colour fading on areas like collars and seams by keeping them from directly coming in contact with the washer or dryer. Washing clothes inside out also protects your garments from pilling, where tiny balls of fabric form and cling to the garment’s surface due to abrasion with other fabrics during washing.
Air Dry Your Clothes
Although it’s tempting to toss damp clothes into the dryer to avoid forgetting about them and having them sit around, the heat from your dryer can cause fabrics to break down later on, leading to shrinking or fraying. Instead, take the time to properly air dry garments to maintain their shape and remain free of any damage. Hang items such as shirts and jackets in an area with good airflow; for example, outside in a ventilated spot, over a balcony railing, or in an open room (like a laundry room) with fans going. Smaller pieces like socks or scarves can be laid flat on regular towel piles. Doing this can keep clothes looking fresh and save you money on electric bills since no energy needs to be used.
Store Your Clothes Properly
Well-organised and built in wardrobes can help keep your clothes looking new for longer. First, fold your clothes neatly and place them in the correct wardrobe section. Next, ensure you don’t overload any area, which will cause clothes to stretch and wrinkle. Finally, be sure to vacuum the inside of your wardrobe regularly – this will remove any dust or debris that may damage your clothes.
Steam Your Clothes To Avoid Wrinkles
One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your clothing looking new is to incorporate steaming into your wardrobe maintenance routine. This technique has two significant advantages: it doesn’t require ironing, and it helps protect delicate items from high-heat exposure. In addition, the steam from a garment steamer or hand-held device loosens wrinkles in fabric fibres quickly and easily, giving items an almost like-new look. Steaming is a simple yet powerful way to care for your clothes and avoid dry cleaning bills when paired with regular laundering. Plus, using the right attachments can help reach even hard-to-access spots. Best of all, relax knowing that you’re protecting natural fibres such as silk, wool, and linen by avoiding excessive heat when steaming – one of the best strategies you can employ for a long life for your favourite garments!
The key to keeping your clothes looking new is to take preventative measures such as washing inside out, air-drying after washing, and storing them properly. Additionally, steam your clothes regularly using a garment steamer or hand-held device to keep wrinkles from setting in. These simple steps can help extend the life of your favourite garments and save you money in the long run. With these tips, you can look and feel your best for years!
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