Care For Your Clothes & Care For Our Planet
With the average lifetime for a garment estimated at just 2.2 years and almost 80% of Australian clothing ending up in landfill each year – taking good care of your clothes has never been more important.
Keeping your clothes for longer can help to dramatically reduce the emissions that occur during a piece of clothing's life cycle; extending the active life of a piece of clothing by just nine months can significantly reduce its environmental impact. By following a few simple tips, you can extend the lifespan of your garments and keep them looking as good as knew.
Read the Care Label
Before you start washing or ironing your garment, take a moment to read the care label. The care label provides valuable information on how to properly care for the fabric. It will indicate whether the garment should be hand-washed or machine-washed, the recommended water temperature, and whether it can be tumble dried or needs to be air-dried. Following the care instructions will help prevent damage and maintain the garment's quality. For our tips outlining different fabrics head to our Garment Care page.
Sort Your Laundry
Sorting your laundry is crucial to prevent colour bleeding and fabric damage. Sort your garments into different piles based on colour, fabric type, and level of dirtiness. Washing dark and light colours separately will prevent colour transfer. Delicate fabrics, such as silk or lace, should be washed separately or placed in a mesh laundry bag to avoid snagging or tearing.
Use the Right Detergent
Choosing the right detergent is essential for garment care. When washing silk and wool it's essential that you use an enzyme free or mild detergent as they are protein based fibres and using harsh detergents can weaken the fibres and cause colour fading. Avoid using bleach unless specifically recommended on the care label, as it can damage the fabric and alter the colour. Opt for mild environmentally friendly detergents that are suitable for individual fabric types.
Wash with Care
When it comes to washing your garments, gentle is the way to go. Use a delicate or hand-wash cycle on your washing machine, or hand-wash them if necessary. Avoid using hot water, as it can shrink or damage certain fabrics. Instead, opt for cold or lukewarm water. Turn your garments inside out before washing to minimise friction and protect the outer surface.
Air Dry Whenever Possible
Air drying is the gentlest way to dry your garments and helps maintain their shape and colour. Hang your clothes on a drying rack or lay them flat on a clean towel. Avoid using a dryer unless the care label explicitly states that it is safe to do so. High heat can cause shrinkage and damage delicate fabrics.
Store with Care
Proper storage is essential to prevent wrinkles, stretching, and moth damage. Fold your garments neatly and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid using wire hangers, as they can stretch the fabric. Instead, choose padded or wooden hangers to maintain the garment's shape.
Handle Stains Promptly
Accidents happen, and stains are inevitable. However, treating stains promptly can prevent them from becoming permanent. Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any excess liquid. Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain. For some great natural stain removal tips read our journal post - Want To Keep Those Whites Bright
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your garments stay in excellent condition for years to come. Caring for your clothes not only extends their lifespan but also reduces your environmental impact by reducing the need for frequent replacements. So, take the time to care for your garments, and they will reward you with long-lasting beauty and style.
References
https://eco-age.com/resources/
