How to care for your delicate clothes?
When investing in quality pieces, it is essential to take care of them to prolong their shine and durability. Delicate garments, often made from noble materials or natural fibers, such as silk, cupro, wool, lyocell or lace, require special attention. They bring a sophisticated and elegant touch to your outfits, but you have to take care of them!
Before going any further, I would like to mention that it is not necessary to wash your clothes after each use, especially your delicate clothes. Sometimes, simply airing them outside is enough. I invite you to read the article about tips and tricks to reduce the frequency of washing your clothes .
That being said, let's get down to business. Here are some tips on how to properly maintain and keep your clothes looking great for longer.
1. Read care labels
Every garment has a label with specific care instructions. Normally, this label is located in an inside seam of the garment. Before purchasing and, especially, before washing, take the time to consult it. It will tell you whether hand washing is recommended, whether machine washing is possible and at what temperature. If you are used to washing and drying all your clothes in the machine, take the time to read the care label before purchasing. This will help you choose pieces that are suited to your needs and avoid those that require special care that you might find restrictive. After all, it's good to buy quality clothes, but you still have to wear them!
2. Prefer hand washing
For more delicate fabrics and wool knits, hand washing is often the best option. Use cold water with a mild detergent specially designed for these fabrics (available at all major retailers). Avoid scrubbing too hard and simply let it soak for a few minutes before rinsing gently.
3. Use a machine wash bag
If you need to machine wash a delicate garment, place it in a washing bag to avoid excessive friction. Select a gentle cycle and a reduced spin.
4. Dry carefully
The dryer is the enemy of delicate fabrics! Prefer air drying by laying the garment flat on a clean surface, for example, a table or a clothes rack. To avoid deformation, do not hang it on a hanger when it is still wet.
5. Iron at low temperature
Some materials like silk or wool do not support high temperatures. Use a low temperature iron and, if possible, an intermediate fabric to avoid direct contact with heat. Steam is also an excellent option for gentle wrinkle removal.
6. Store carefully
Delicate clothes should be stored properly to avoid creasing or damage. Fold them carefully or hang them on a hanger away from sunlight.
7. Treat stains immediately
In case of stain, act quickly with a mild stain remover suitable for the fabric concerned. Gently dab the area without rubbing, then wash the garment following the care instructions. I take this opportunity to mention that any fabric made from natural fibers (cotton, linen, wool, viscose, cupro, etc.) can easily be damaged or discolored if rubbed. It is better to gently spread the anti-stain liquid with your fingers and make circular movements.
8. Take clothes to a dry cleaner if necessary
For particularly valuable pieces, such as dresses or jackets, professional cleaning may be the best solution.
A gesture of love for your clothes
Taking care of your delicate clothes not only extends their lifespan, but also preserves their beauty and quality over time. By adopting these good practices, you will be able to enjoy your favorite pieces for longer while reducing your environmental impact.
Take care of your treasures, they will take care of you!
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