How to Increase the Longevity of Your Clothes
<p></p> <img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/Article_Webp/longevity.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: auto"/> <p></p> <p>The life span of clothing seems to be shrinking in the age of high fashion, but by adopting certain habits and practices, you can significantly increase the longevity of your garments. Here’s how to keep your clothes looking new for longer:</p> <p><strong>Check the care labels before washing, drying or ironing your clothes. </strong>These labels provide specific instructions designed by the manufacturer to ensure the item remains in the best condition possible. Use the appropriate water temperature, cycle type and drying method as per the garment’s care label. For example, delicate fabrics often require cold water and gentle washing cycles.</p> <p><strong>Wash clothes less frequently. </strong>Instead of washing an entire garment, spot clean any stains to avoid unnecessary laundry cycles that can degrade the fabric. After wearing, let your clothes air out overnight to refresh them. This is particularly effective for jeans and jackets, which don’t require frequent washing.</p> <p><strong>Use gentle laundry detergents. </strong>Harsh detergents can weaken fabric fibers over time. Choose mild detergents that are eco-friendly and designed for sensitive skin. Bleach can be very harsh on fabrics and lead to discoloration and fiber damage. Use non-chlorine bleach or gentle stain removers instead.</p> <p><strong>Practice proper laundry techniques.</strong> Wash similar colors together to avoid color transfer and sort by fabric type to ensure delicate items aren’t damaged by heavier garments. Turn clothes inside out to reduce the wear on the outer fabric during washing and help preserve prints and embellishments.</p> <p><strong>Dry clothes with care.</strong> High temperatures can shrink and permanently warp fabrics. Air dry your clothes when possible and use the lowest dryer setting if necessary. Leaving clothes in the dryer for too long can cause wrinkles and set stains, making them harder to remove.</p> <p><strong>Store clothes properly.</strong> Invest in quality hangers that match the needs of your garments. For example, use padded hangers for delicate items and sturdy ones for heavier garments like coats. Give your clothes space to breathe to prevent wrinkling and fabric damage.</p> <p><strong>Repair and upcycle. </strong>Simple skills like sewing a button or mending a seam can significantly extend the life of a garment. Get creative with older clothes by dyeing them, cutting them into new styles or adding new embellishments. </p> <p><strong>Invest in quality over quantity. </strong>Go with natural fibers like cotton, linen and wool, which generally last longer than synthetic fibers. It might be worth investing in more expensive items if they last longer and fit better than cheaper alternatives. </p> <p><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies</a></p> <p><strong>Related Articles</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/clothes-and-shoes/" target="_self">The Essential Guide to Clothes & Shoes</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Rated Local</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a> </p>
