How to Make Your Clothes Last Longer
- Kevin Bolland
- 14 hours ago
- 4 min read
Making clothes last longer has definitely improved over the last few years, with the introduction of businesses like Vinted becoming an obsession for the modern consumer. However, we still have a long way to go. There is still around 92 million tonnes of clothing waste every year, and this is mostly due to pieces of clothing not being looked after properly. Let’s use jeans as an example; these should last you for years, but how often do you find yourself buying new ones because they don’t fit the same anymore? If you had looked after those jeans better, you wouldn’t have had to buy new ones.
If you take note of the following simple tips, you will be able to make your clothes last longer and save money. This can all be done while simultaneously helping the environment by reducing waste. Continue reading to learn more.
Making Your Clothes Last Longer
Choose Quality Over Quantity
Making your clothes last longer starts before you purchase any item of clothing. While sometimes you think you’re getting more for your money, the quality of these tops is often not great and therefore they will lose their shape or develop holes after just a few washes. As a result, when you’re looking at clothes to purchase, keep an eye on quality, making sure the material feels good and that things like buttons are sewn securely. Even if it might be a bit pricier at the time, it will pay off as it will last you longer. There are many custom designers that can create exactly what you want, and will make it atelier made, heirloom grade.
Follow the Care Label
We’ve all been there when we just shove all the washing in the machine out of ease, rather than checking each label to know how each item should be washed. However, taking that extra few seconds to check the label can make a big difference to how long your clothes last. Following the care label instructions reduces the risk of those issues we all dread, like shrinking. Not only does it prevent damaging your clothes, but it also helps to keep them looking fresh. Using the right temperature keeps the color looking vibrant.
Wash Clothes Less Often
Just because you’ve worn clothes doesn’t mean they need washing straight away. In fact, many clothes are designed to rarely be washed, such as jeans. As long as the item isn’t visibly dirty or smelly, you can get away with a few wears before needing a full wash. For items like women's lounge sets, which you will mainly wear to just chill at home, if you do drop something on an item, try spot cleaning rather than throwing it in the wash. Being more thoughtful about how often you wash your clothes will help to make them look newer for longer.
Dry Clothes Properly
Once your clothes are washed, the next stage is really important in helping your items to last longer. Air drying your clothes should always be a preference however, I know for ease, especially in the colder months, using a tumble dryer is a lot more efficient. The heat from a tumble dryer can weaken the fabric fibers causing the item to lose its shape. In addition, here are a couple of good to know tips:
● Knitwear should be dried flat on a towel or airer.
● If you’re drying your clothes outside, try not to have your darker items in direct sunlight as this can cause the color to fade.
Repair Instead of Replace
Just because your trousers have lost a button or your zip has fallen off your hoodie doesn’t mean you need to throw them away. Some of these repairs can take minutes to sort, but they make the item last considerably longer. You can easily sew a button back onto your trousers or get a new zip fitted for your hoodie for a couple of pounds if you’re unable to do it yourself. Another reason people often discard items is when their clothes develop pilling (the little bobbly bits that sometimes appear). Most of the time, these can be removed by using a fabric comb or fabric shaver (a personal shaver does just as good a job too).
Store Your Clothes Correctly
The way you store your clothes is just as important as how you wash them. There are a few particular items that are more important than others. For example, knitwear should always be folded rather than hung, as hanging can cause it to stretch over time. It is also important to keep your wardrobe or wherever you’re storing your clothes clean, dry and well-ventilated to prevent mold. Every 6 months, most people will put away all their winter/summer clothes and get out the alternative. When storing your clothes, it is key to keep them packed away in breathable storage bags to protect them from dust and moisture whilst they’re being stored away.
Final Thoughts
If you choose better-quality pieces, care for them properly, repair minor damage and store them correctly, you can keep your clothes looking their best for years to come. Not only will this save you money, but it will also help reduce clothing waste and support a more sustainable approach to fashion.
Article was generously provided by Darcy Fowler
Thanks for reading!
