1. Buy Clothes Made From Natural Materials
Choose clothes made from natural fibers such as cotton, linen, or wool. These materials are more comfortable to wear and provide natural warmth or breathability. Their synthetic counterparts will shed microplastics and be more prone to pilling and tears, requiring more time and effort to repair or replace them.
Wearing natural fibers also provides a more luxurious feel against the skin, enhancing the overall wearing experience. Clothes made from natural materials are better for the environment too since they will decompose faster.
2. Use Mesh Laundry Bags
When washing delicate items, using mesh laundry bags can be a game-changer. These bags provide an extra layer of protection, preventing garments from tangling and snagging on other items in the wash. I use these bags in every load for articles of clothing I particularly want to preserve the condition of. Examples of this would include items with embellishments, intricate designs, or are just plain more expensive!
3. Turn Clothes Inside Out Before Washing Them
Doing this will help preserve the front-facing fabric as it tumbles around the washing machine rubbing against other clothes. After I started doing this consistently for all my clothes I stopped encountering as many pilling issues and overall my clothes did not look as old and worn.
4. Avoid Using the Dryer
While it certainly is convenient, using the dryer often leads to damage over time. High heat can degrade elastic fibers like Elastane, causing garments to lose their shape and fit. Moreover, frequent tumble drying can lead to pilling on fabrics, which negatively impacts their appearance. Not to mention the inadvertent shrinking! Pay close attention to the material composition to ascertain whether a round in the dryer would lead to the clothing piece becoming much too small to wear or even worse damaged beyond repair.
As an alternative, consider air drying your clothes whenever possible. This gentle drying method helps maintain the fabric’s quality and can also save on energy costs. I set up a drying rack for this that is effectively like line drying, just indoors!
5. Follow Care Instructions
Every garment typically comes with care labels that provide specific guidance on how to wash, dry, and maintain them. Adhering to these instructions will best maximize the longevity of each item. Whether it involves washing on a gentle cycle, avoiding bleach, or using specific temperature settings, following these recommendations can help prevent damage and extend the life of your clothes.
6. Wash with Cold Water
Washing your clothes in cold water is not only better for the environment, but also gentler on the fabrics. Hot water can cause colors to fade and can damage delicate fibers, leading to a shorter lifespan for your garments. Cold water is just as effective at cleaning while helping to preserve the integrity and vibrancy of your clothes. Additionally, it reduces energy costs associated with heating water, making it a win-win for both your wardrobe and your wallet.
Do you have other laundering tips to share? Leave a comment below!
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