With summer in full swing, Maintaining fresh and odour-free clothes without constant washing can be a real challenge. Experts from clothing brand Superdry have shared valuable tips and tricks to help keep your garments in top condition, especially for those delicate items that you want to avoid over-washing.
1. Wash Smart, Not Often
Excessive washing can stretch and wear out your clothes faster than necessary. To combat this, try rotating the garments you wear, allowing each piece ample time between uses. This approach not only prolongs the life of your clothing but also helps you rediscover forgotten items at the back of your wardrobe, potentially reducing unnecessary purchases.
For those delicate fabrics that can’t handle frequent washing, consider a gentle vodka spray—a tip borrowed from costume industry professionals. This technique eliminates odours and helps maintain fabric integrity without the need for washing. It’s ideal for items labelled ‘dry clean only’. Always perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure there is no colour change, and apply the spray from a distance to achieve a light mist across the fabric.
2. Embrace Natural Drying
Opting for natural drying methods, such as using a clothesline or drying rack, can greatly reduce wear and tear caused by heat exposure in tumble dryers. Sunlight provides natural antimicrobial properties and can also act as a mild whitening agent for fabrics. To boost this effect, lightly spritz clothes with white vinegar before hanging them outside. This will help maintain the brightness of white garments.
For natural fibres like cotton, which can become stiff when air-dried, try drying outside for a short period followed by a few minutes in the tumble dryer. Gently reshape garments to remove creases before drying to reduce the need for ironing. Be careful with clothes pegs to avoid leaving marks on delicate fabrics.
3. Opt for Cooler Washes
Using cooler wash cycles is beneficial for conserving energy, preserving vibrant colours, and reducing the risk of shrinkage. This practice not only helps save on utility bills but also reduces the chances of accidentally ruining your favourite outfits. Always check the garment label for specific temperature recommendations. Many modern washing machines feature ‘Hand Wash’ programmes, which offer a gentler washing process with lower temperatures and reduced agitation. For hand washing, use a specialist detergent that’s kinder to both your clothes and your hands. Rinse thoroughly to remove any residual detergent and squeeze firmly to remove excess water, but avoid wringing or twisting the fabric to prevent damage.
4. Focus on Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning is an effective way to handle minor stains and spills without resorting to full washes, which can lead to shrinkage, colour fading, and premature wear. When dealing with stains, use a cleaning solution appropriate for both the type of fabric and the nature of the stain. Always test the product on a small, hidden area first to check for any potential colour changes or damage.
5. Protect Delicates with Laundry Bags
For delicate items such as lingerie and knitwear, use mesh laundry bags to provide an extra layer of protection against stretching and snagging. Turning clothes inside out before washing can also help minimise friction and preserve the garment’s quality. This simple step can significantly extend the lifespan of your clothes.
6. Be Careful When Ironing
Ironing can easily damage your clothes if not done correctly. Always select the appropriate temperature setting for the fabric and use a clean, damp pressing cloth for delicate materials. Iron natural fibres like cotton and silk while they are still damp to make it easier to remove creases. For synthetic fabrics, consider investing in a detachable Teflon sole-plate to diffuse heat and prevent scorching.
7. Ditch Wire Hangers
Proper storage is key to maintaining the shape and condition of your clothes. For example, knitwear should be folded rather than hung to prevent stretching. Use hangers that support the weight and shape of each garment, such as padded hangers for delicate items and sturdy hangers for blazers. Use any internal loops or tabs on the garment to help keep its shape and avoid stretching.
8. Embrace Repair Over Replacement
Adopting a repair mindset rather than replacing damaged garments can significantly extend their life. Learn basic sewing skills or consult a tailor for repairs such as reattaching buttons or mending holes. Investing in higher-quality clothing can also facilitate easier repairs and enhance garment longevity, promoting a more sustainable approach to fashion.
Recent data highlights the pressing need for sustainable fashion practices, revealing that approximately 30% of unwanted clothes in the UK end up in landfills each year, equating to around 300,000 tonnes of clothing waste. Deborah Painting, Head of Quality & Technical at Superdry, underscores the growing focus on sustainability in the fashion industry.
The focus on sustainability in the fashion industry has grown a lot recently, showing a greater awareness of environmental issues. These straightforward tips offer effective ways to extend the life of your clothing, reducing the need for replacements.
By air drying, spot cleaning, and repairing garments, individuals can help reduce the fashion industry’s environmental impact. Moreover, taking proper care of your clothes not only saves money but also ensures your favourite items remain in excellent condition for longer.
