Our world today is increasingly embracing secondhand clothing as a primary option, making it as preferable, if not more so, than buying new. Beyond the initial purchase, it’s also crucial to know how to care for your clothing. Proper care not only extends the lifespan of your garments but also strengthens your sustainability efforts and saves money on buying new clothes.
Here are some tips to incorporate into your daily routine for better clothing care.
1. Sort your dark and light laundry
Sorting your laundry load according to light and dark colours prevents the risk of darker dyes ruining lighter fabrics. Resist the temptation to mix it together; instead, save them for a full load instead. Just imagine: there’s nothing worse than one red sock sneaking in turning your white laundry pile pink.
Light Colours include: White, Yellow, Light blue, Light Green, Ash
Dark Colours include: Black, Navy, Red, Green, Hot Pink
2. Wash your clothes inside out
Clothes washed in a machine are exposed to the washing machine drum and other pieces of clothing. Overtime, the friction is bound to wear out a garment. By turning a piece inside out, it will prevent pilling and preserve the outer appearance.
This simple yet often overlooked tip can significantly extend the life of a garment!
3. Invest in a mesh laundry bag
Mesh laundry bags are incredibly useful for safely washing various clothing items, from delicates to jeans and cotton T-shirts. Acting as a protective barrier, they help prevent snags and tears, ensuring your clothes remain in great condition.
4. Air dry your clothes
Clothes shrink twice as much in the dryer as they do when air-dried, often causing irreversible damage to your garments. Instead, opt to air dry your clothes to preserve their quality and enjoy the fresh laundered smell, all the while without worrying about rising electricity bills.
5. Wash your clothes sparingly
Washing clothes involves necessary agitation to remove dirt and stains, often weakening fabric fibres. While clothes worn in direct contact with the body are washed after each wear, items worn briefly or without sweating can be spared.
Jeans can typically be worn 3 - 4 times before washing. Outerwears and jackets, not being in direct contact with skin, require less frequent washing. For areas in direct contact, wipe them with a slightly damp cloth or air them out after each wear
By following these guidelines, you can extend the life of your clothes by maintaining their quality. Knowing what material your clothing is made of and being more conscious of your decisions is key. Remember, thoughtful care of your garments not only benefits you but also contributes to a more sustainable world!
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