We know how much your clothing means to you. Our customers have spent top dollar on their garments and often ask us how they can make them last. At some point, even the best made pieces will begin to pill or deteriorate but with a few little tricks you can extend a garments’ life. We put together some tips to be sure your clothing lasts as long as possible.
1). All items, even those worn only a handful of times should be professionally cleaned before seasonal storage. Bacteria can grow on garments that have not been cleaned and can attract hungry larvae.
2). Clean a stained item as soon as possible. Permanent fabric bonding can occur after a few days which sets the stain. Once a stain is set, there is no guarantee that it can be professionally removed.
3). Beware of “invisible stains.” When clothes have been exposed to perspiration, perfume, alcohol, soda or sugar from food or drinks, they should be cleaned right away. Invisible stains will dry clear but if hung back up and allowed to set they will eventually re-appear as bleached and darkened splotches, many times after cleaning.
4). Cigarette smoke lingers in fabrics and can cause yellow discoloring if not cleaned.
5). Never try to remove a spot from a tie or pocket square. Because they are cut on the bias, even a small amount of rubbing will cause them to twist and stretch out of shape.
6). Apply cologne and perfume and let it completely dry before getting dressed to prevent your garments from being “bleached” by the alcohol they contain.
7). Wearing a scarf under a leather jacket, or any jacket for that matter, prevents soils and oils from creating a shiny, slick sheen around the neck.
8). Folding sweaters and rolling linens helps them last longer. Knits will stretch and fray on the hanger especially at the shoulders. Hanging or folding linens will create permanent creases and wrinkles.
9). Clothes will look newer for longer when stored away from natural light, in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures will attract insects and hurt fibers. Avoid mothballs and try cedar and lavender instead.
We know your clothes are important to you because they’re important to us too. These are some of our best tips to keep your clothing in great shape for years to come. Unfortunately, garments won’t last forever but with proper care, you can give them their maximum life expectancy.
