Simple habits can make a big difference in how long your clothes last. By taking good care of them, you can help the planet by reducing waste, and save money by not having to replace them as often.
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Discover simple secrets to making your clothes last longer and saving you money. From washing less often to clever storage tips, these easy hacks will help preserve the quality of your wardrobe. Read on to learn more!
1. Care for Faded Clothes
Frequent washing and exposure to sunlight can cause colors to fade, making your clothes look dull. But before you consider getting rid of them, consider reviving them by re-dyeing. This simple solution can breathe new life into your old favorites.
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You can easily find fabric dye online, and it’s versatile enough to revamp a wide range of items, from pants and tops to shoes and accessories.
2. Tighten loose parts
Don’t toss those loose jeans just yet. A simple tightening device can give them a new fit. Just make two small cuts in the waistband and you’re good to go!
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Next, thread a shoelace through the two holes. Then, use the shoelace as a makeshift drawstring to easily open and close the adjustable waistband.
3. Wash Less Frequently
To keep your clothes looking their best, wash them only when absolutely necessary. Excessive washing can cause fabrics to wear down and colors to fade. Instead, spot-clean stains and hang garments outside to air out and freshen up.
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For durable items like jeans and jackets, consider washing them only every few weeks or even months. This can help significantly extend their lifespan and keep them looking their best.
4. Wash with Cold Water
Washing your clothes in cold water is a simple way to make them last longer. Hot water can cause fabrics to shrink and colors to fade, but cold water is gentler and helps preserve the quality of your clothes.
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Plus, it’s also energy-efficient and better for the environment. Just be sure to use a detergent designed for cold water washing.
5. Avoid the Dryer
Air drying your clothes is a gentler way to preserve their quality. This method prevents shrinkage and damage to fabrics.
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Hang your clothes outside on a clothesline or use a drying rack indoors. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting.
6. Use Gentle Detergents
Harsh detergents can damage fabric fibers by generating excessive friction. To protect your clothes, opt for gentle, chemical-free soaps that are friendly to fabrics.
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These eco-friendly alternatives not only preserve your garments but also reduce environmental impact. When washing delicate or hairy materials, avoid strong detergents, which can weaken fabric strength.
7. Wash Delicates by Hand
For delicate items like lingerie, silk, and cashmere, hand washing is the best option. Use mild detergent and cold water to gently clean these items.
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To remove excess water, gently roll them in a towel instead of twisting, and then lay them flat to dry. Hand washing helps preserve the softness and texture of delicate fabrics, preventing shrinkage and damage.
8. Buy Clothes with Several Purposes
Investing in versatile clothing can help you save money in the long run. Opt for pieces that can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for various occasions.
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Chinos are a great example, as they can be paired with a formal shirt or a casual t-shirt. By choosing multi-purpose clothing, you can create a variety of outfits with a smaller wardrobe.
9. Store Properly
Proper storage is key to preventing damage to your clothes. Delicate items like undergarments should be hung using padded hangers to prevent stretching or creasing.
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Knitwear should be folded carefully to avoid stretching and stored away. Store your clothes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to keep them fresh and intact.
10. Turn Clothes Inside Out
Turning your clothes inside out before washing is a simple yet effective way to protect them. This helps shield the outer layer from the washing machine’s drum, preventing friction and damage.
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It also helps retain colors and prints, preventing them from fading or wearing out quickly. This is especially important for clothes with bold prints or dark colors, like black garments.
11. Rotate your Wardrobe
Wearing the same outfit repeatedly can cause it to wear out faster. So, mix up your wardrobe by dressing differently and giving some outfits a break.
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Store out-of-season clothes and avoid wearing them frequently to prevent unnecessary wear. By rotating your wardrobe, you can distribute the wear and tear across multiple outfits, extending the life of each piece of clothing.
