Wardrobe Care and Maintenance
It takes more than merely hanging your clothing back in the closet after wearing them to keep a well-organized and well-maintained wardrobe. It takes a little effort and a few easy procedures to keep your garments in good shape for a long period. Here are some wardrobe care and maintenance suggestions to help you keep your clothes looking new.
1. Sort and declutter on a regular basis
The first step towards a well-kept closet is to declutter it. Every few months, go through your clothes and get rid of everything you haven't worn in a year or longer. This will not only free up room in your closet but will also make it easier to find the clothing you actually wear. Donate or sell any good-condition garments you no longer use, and trash any damaged or worn-out goods.
2. Purchase High-Quality Hangers
Investing in high-quality hangers can make a significant impact in the upkeep of your clothes. Wooden or cushioned hangers are good for delicate textiles, while slender velvet hangers save space and keep clothes from slipping off. Wire hangers should be avoided since they might stretch out your garments and leave them with unsightly creases.
3. Obey Proper Washing Directions
Following proper washing instructions for your garments is one of the most crucial aspects of wardrobe upkeep. Before washing, always check the care label and follow the directions. This will not only help your garments survive longer, but it will also protect them from any harm caused by improper washing practices. Silk, wool, and cashmere are delicate textiles that demand special care, so hand wash them or use the delicate cycle on your washing machine.
4. Correctly hang or fold clothes
Properly hanging or folding your garments can help them retain their shape and quality. Knitted and fragile textiles should be folded to avoid stretching, whilst structured clothing like blazers and jackets should be placed on robust hangers to keep their shape. Hanging clothes in the proper direction (facing the same direction) will help make your wardrobe appear more organised and visually appealing.
5. Properly Store Seasonal Clothes
When not in use, it is critical to properly store your seasonal clothing. This not only saves room in your closet, but it also protects your items from harm. Store winter clothes in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags throughout the summer, and vice versa. To avoid musty odours or mildew, make sure to clean and dry the garments before storing them.
6. Make Use of Natural Repellents
Use natural repellents such as cedar balls, lavender sachets, or dried rosemary to keep moths, silverfish, and other pests away from your clothes. These natural alternatives are not only healthy, but they also offer a lovely fragrance to your clothes.
7. Mend and alter clothing
Instead of throwing away clothing with small flaws, consider fixing them to extend their life. Keep a sewing kit on hand for basic adjustments like replacing a button or repairing a frayed hem. You can also refashion garments that no longer fit you correctly, giving them new life.
To summarise, appropriate wardrobe care and maintenance take some effort and time, but it pays off in the long term. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your garments remain in good condition and last for a longer period of time, saving you money and lowering your environmental effect. So, tidy your closet, invest in quality hangers, follow appropriate washing instructions, and store your clothes properly to keep your wardrobe organised and your clothes looking new.
