Make your clothes last longer
I try really hard to stay away from fast fashion brands and shop high quality and sustainable items but since that has not always been the case I have pieces in my wardrobe that are fast fashion. What is characteristic for such pieces are that they have poor quality and since I can’t replace every item with a better option (because that would not be sustainable or financially clever) I put in effort for taking care of the clothes I have.
Before we begin:
Your clothes have tags that explain how to care for them. By following these instructions your clothes can last much longer. They explain everything from how to wash them to how to iron them. You can also use these tags notice materials or special care instructions that you want to avoid. For example, I try to look for pure materias (for example 100% cotton) and avoid items that need dry cleaning. Okay let’s dive in.
Laundry
I try to wash my clothes less frequently and I don’t wash my jeans. Okay, I do, but only if they have a spot which won't go away. When a pair of jeans need some refreshing I air them out. This is something that may come as a surprise to people but even the CEO of Levis explains in an article that washing jeans may cause damage to the material. The same article also suggests putting your jeans in the freezer but that is something I have never tried.
When it comes to detergent, it depends on your water quality. However, today’s washing machines do not really need that much detergent. Some argue that you don’t even need detergent at all, but that your clothes will become clean just by using water and the washing machine. If you choose to wash your clothes using detergent opt for an environmentally friendly one. In Sweden almost every laundry detergent is as marked eco friendly.
Wash dark colours inside out this helps them to keep their colour. If your clothes contain elastic material (common in workout clothes) do not use fabric softener as it may damage the elasticity.
Drying and ironing
Depending on the drying technique your clothes may shrink for example, if you tumble dry them. Here the little tag comes super handy. The best is to let all or at least some of your clothes air dry. If you for some reason decide to dry your clothes in a dryer for example, due to lack of space for time- check your settings on the dryer. Try to adjust the settings so that your clothes come out damp, in that way you will avoid shrinkage and fading.
I steam most of my clothes to straighten wrinkles, this way is more gentle for them. For the clothes that need ironing there are often different levels on the iron to help you set the heat. Remember that not all items should not be ironed and may be damaged beyond repair if they are. Check the clothing tag.
• • • Is often the highest temperature and is suitable for cotton and linen. Be aware that your clothes may not consist of pure materials and hence you might need to adjust the ironing temperature. The clothes should be ironed in a damp state and they might need more moisture as you go. If the item has a print on it cover it with a cotton or linen towel before ironing to protect it.
• • This setting is suitable for wool, silk, polyester and viscose. To be extra careful you can cover your item with a cotton or a linen towel before ironing.
• This is often the lowest setting for an iron and is suitable for acrylic, polyamide, nylon and acetate. If necessary, cover your item with a cotton or a linen towel before ironing.
Storing
Don’t hang heavy items. Knitted jumpers for example, may lose their shape if hanged. I often fold my jumpers the MariKodo way so that they don’t take up too much space since squishing your clothes together may also damage them.
To avoid unwanted visitors in your wardrobe you can buy cedar wood and put them where you store your clothes.
Rotate your clothes to avoid using the same items over and over again and to avoid tear and wear. It is also a good way to keep you updated on what items you have in your wardrobe and if there are items that you do not use anymore. In that case pass them on to a friend or upcycle them.
Mend clothes
Some things are actually really easy to do yourself like reattaching buttons. I think that it is a good way to show respect for the person who made your clothes and for your own finances to learn how to mend your clothes. I have learned a lot by watching youtube tutorials. If there is something you can’t do yourself, take it to a tailor.
Bonus
Change clothes when you’ve come home to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
Use an apron when cooking
If you use make- up, be careful not to stain your clothes. Use a cover or get dressed after you´ve done your make-up. Same with hair products, don’t use them or be careful not to get them on your clothes.
Lastly, don’t beat yourself up if you accidentally ruin an item. Clothes are meant to be used and unexpected things happen no matter how careful you were. Be kind to yourself, and if you have read until this point I’m sure that you are striving towards doing your best.