I've previously shared tips on extending the life of your clothes with proper care and maintenance techniques. While you can reduce washing based on fabric types, the only surefire way to keep your clothes in the best shape is… well, not washing them at all. But let’s be real - no one’s willing to wear dirty clothes, so eventually, those garments will need to be washed, whether by machine, hand-washed, dry-cleaned, or another method.
Since there’s no universal washing method for all clothes, today, I’ll break down the best washing practices for some common materials. Remember, proper washing techniques help make your clothes last longer and perform better.
Leather Jackets
You can only trust dry cleaners with leather jackets, but many people opt to clean up stains at home first. This is a smart choice since no one understands your clothes better than you!
For basic stains like mud or dirt, gently wipe them away with a clean, soft cloth - damp if necessary. For tougher stains, like oil or grease (which can be a nightmare on light leather!), take extra care when using bleach. Always test a small amount on a hidden part of the garment first. Dab it on a less visible area to make sure it won’t cause damage.
Suede Items
When it comes to suede, use a brush and specialized cleaning solution to remove dirt and stains. If this doesn’t work, stop before you make things worse.
Avoid using wet wipes on suede, as they contain alcohol that can damage the material, causing stains to spread uncontrollably. If your suede gets muddy, gently wipe it with a soft cloth without pressing too hard. Leave a bit of mud to dry, then use a suede brush to clean it off. Afterward, wipe the item with a warm, damp cloth and let it dry overnight. Never use a hairdryer or direct heat on suede!
Denim Items
Always turn your jeans inside out before washing, whether in the machine or by hand. Air dry them to maintain their shape - using the dryer can cause them to lose their form and shrink.
Wool Items
While some washing machines feature a wool setting, it's generally recommended to hand-wash wool garments. Use warm (not hot!) water to avoid shrinking the fibers. Spread wool sweaters flat to dry, as using hangers while damp can cause the fabric to stretch. When storing wool, always fold it instead of hanging it to preserve its shape.
Silk
Silk-blend items usually need to be dry-cleaned. When you take them to the cleaners, request minimal chemicals. If you have silk blends that can be hand-washed (those with low silk content), use warm water and only a small amount of mild detergent. Don’t wring or twist the fabric - silk requires delicate handling. Let it air dry until slightly damp, then iron on a low setting on the reverse side to smooth out any wrinkles.
A Few Laundry Symbols to Know
Be sure to check for laundry symbols inside your clothes - often found along the side seams. They’re there for a reason!
Quick Reminders:
Hot water can cause your clothes to fade, shrink, or wear out faster, so always be mindful of the temperature.
Separate darks and lights before washing to prevent color transfer. For example, avoid washing a red sweater with a white shirt unless you’re okay with it turning pink.
More detergent doesn’t always mean cleaner clothes. Stick to the recommended amount.
Always check your pockets before washing to avoid damaging the washing machine or your clothes. Small items like coins, keys, or lip balm can be trouble.
And finally, if anyone suggests using black coffee to prevent fading or extra bleach to clean better… maybe reconsider their advice.
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