How to Preserve the Life of Your Clothes
Handy tips:
Hand Washing
Hand washing is a gentle alternative to machine washing. (See below for guidance)
Cold Water
Wash clothes and shoes with cold water to prevent shrinkage and fading.
Mesh Delicate Bags
Wash your clothes in mesh delicate bags to protect your clothes from being worn and snagged on in the washing machine.
Hang Dry/Lay Flat
Heat from dryers wears and shrinks clothing. Opt to either hang dry or lay flat. Laying clothes flat to dry will prevent fabrics from stretching. Drying whites and like colors in the sun will brighten. Dry dark clothes in the shade to preserve it’s color. Never twist water out of your clothes, as this can stretch out fabric.
Flip It & Zip It
Flip clothes inside out to prevent fading and wearing & zip up zippers to avoid snagging onto other clothes in the wash and damage to the actual zipper.
Like Fabrics & Colors
Wash clothes with similar fabrics or colors together to prevent colored dyes from transferring and maintaining fabric consistency.
Treat Stains/Vinegar
Treat your stains immediately, either with a rinse or soak. Vinegar can be used as a non—toxic stain remover and fabric softener. Avoid using chlorine bleach, which can damage textiles.
Mend It
Mend your favorite pieces instead of throwing them out. If no longer repairable, drop-off your pieces at your local textile recycling facility. Help us keep textiles out of the landfill!
HOW TO HAND WASH CLOTHES
1. Add cool water and mild soap or detergent into a basin.
2. Place garment in water and swirl around.
3. Rinse with cool water and pour out water, and gently press the garment to remove excess water, being careful not to twist.
4. Spread garment on a thick, dry towel. Roll towel the way you would a yoga mat, pressing as you go. Do not twist towel.
5. Unroll. Hang dry or lay garment on a dry towel on a flat, waterproof surface (flip as needed).
6. If any wrinkles or folds remain, use a steamer to remove.
“Buy less,
choose well,
make it last.”