1. WASHING
Being mindful during the washing process and making the right decisions about frequency and method extends the lifespan of your clothes.
Tip #1: before dropping your clothes in the laundry bag, ask yourself: do they really need to be washed? Each wash consumes water and energy, so it's essential to consider whether airing out your garment or cleaning a small stained area is sufficient.
Tip #2: if the piece needs a wash, it's time to check the label and understand the ideal washing method.
Tip #3: if machine washing is the ideal method, reducing the number of loads by filling the machine helps clothes last longer. Additionally, washing at a lower temperature reduces the impact on clothes, preventing shrinking and fading, and also reducing energy usage. Sorting clothes by material, color, or specific attributes also reduces potential damage.
Tip #4: for delicate products, consider keeping your garments clean by handwashing and/or using cold water.
2. DRYING
Dryers consume a lot of energy, so reduce their use whenever possible: it's beneficial for you, your clothes, and the planet. An interesting option is to air- dry using a drying rack! This way, you avoid wrinkles and shrinking while also not wasting energy.
3. IRONING
If it's really necessary to iron your clothes, remember to check the tag information on how to do it for each type of fabric.
Tip #1: after washing, with the garment damp, you can hang it on a hanger to dry to prevent wrinkling.
Tip #2: if the garment is damp and you've just taken a hot shower, you can hang the clothes in the bathroom. The hot water steam helps to remove wrinkles, so you won't need to spend time and energy ironing your clothes.
4. STORAGE
Organizing clothes after the previous steps increases the likelihood of wearing them more often.
Tip #1: clothes stored in clean and dry environments last longer.
Tip #2: maxi styles or easily wrinkled clothes can go on hangers, but be cautious with crochet, knitwear, jersey, or wool pieces, as hanging them can stretch and lose shape. You can fold them and put them in drawers instead!
Tip #3: choose suitable hangers for your garments: plastic or velvet ones can hang delicate pieces, while wooden ones support heavier materials, and metal ones are suitable for denim pieces.
Tip #4: opt for natural, organic, and biodegradable materials to keep your garments smelling fresh for longer.
FAQ
My garment is fading, what can I do to reduce color loss?
Wash it inside out in low temperatures, using eco-friendly and/or neutral detergent.
How to avoid frequent washings?
Since washing clothes gradually wears out the fabrics, you can create the habit of hanging your clothes to refresh them after use.
My clothes have pills, what can I do to prevent/remove them?
It occurs due to constant friction on clothes and can be reduced by turning the clothes inside out before washing and storing. You can use a razor blade, dishwashing sponge, or lint remover to remove them.
How to remove stains?
Wash only the necessary area where the stain is located with neutral soap or eco-friendly remover.
How to prevent mold?
You can hang your clothes to refresh them.
How can the lifespan of torn clothes be prolonged?
Rips and holes are not reasons to discard your pieces. You can choose to repair them yourself by sewing or customizing your pieces.
What do I do with clothes I no longer want?
Other people and projects can give new stories to old pieces. So donate, sell, or exchange them :)
What do I do with clothes that can no longer be worn?
