Garment Care

Follow The Care Label Instructions

Care labels are essential for maintaining the quality and appearance of clothes, as they provide important information about the fabric type, washing and drying instructions, and any special care requirements. However, understanding care labels can be confusing, as they often use symbols and abbreviations that may not be familiar.

To make it easier, you can refer to our guide on care labels, which explains each of the symbols and terms commonly used in care labels. For example, you can learn that the symbol of a basin of water with a hand means the garment should be hand-washed, while the symbol of a square with a circle inside means it can be dry-cleaned.

It's important to follow the care label instructions carefully, as ignoring them can damage your clothes or shorten their lifespan. For example, washing a delicate fabric in hot water or using bleach on a colorfast item can cause shrinkage, fading, or discoloration. Similarly, using a dryer on a garment that is meant to be air-dried or ironing a fabric that is not suitable for high heat can also cause damage.

In addition to the symbols, care labels may also include additional instructions, such as "wash with like colors", "iron on low heat", or "do not wring or twist". These instructions can help you avoid common mistakes and ensure that your clothes are properly cared for.

Stains Need To Be Treated Right Away

Stains are a common issue that can ruin the appearance of clothes and make them difficult to clean. To prevent stains from setting or spreading, it's crucial to treat them as soon as possible. Here are some tips on how to deal with stains effectively:

1. Identify the stain: Before you start treating a stain, you need to know what type of stain it is and what caused it. To identify the stain, you can use our comprehensive guide on stains which provides a complete table of the different types of stains and their specific causes.
2. Choose the right stain remover: Once you know what type of stain you're dealing with, you can choose the appropriate stain remover to use. There are many commercial stain removers available in the market, but not all of them are suitable for every type of stain. For instance, using bleach on oil-based stains would be useless. See our guide to choosing the right stain remover if you're curious about what stains each stain remover is great for.
3. Test the stain remover: Before you apply the stain remover to the entire stain, it's recommended to test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to make sure it doesn't cause any damage or discoloration. Follow the instructions on the label and apply the stain remover to the affected area, working from the outside in. Use a clean cloth or sponge to dab the stain gently, without rubbing or scrubbing too hard.
4. Rinse and repeat: After you've treated the stain with the remover, rinse the fabric thoroughly with cool water to remove any residue. Check the stain to see if it's gone, or if it still needs further treatment. If the stain persists, repeat the process or try a different stain remover. Avoid using hot water or a dryer on a stain that hasn't been completely removed, as heat can set the stain and make it even harder to remove.

By following these tips and using the right stain remover, you can increase the chances of removing stains from your clothes and keeping them looking clean and fresh. The sooner you treat a stain, the better your chances of success.

Wash Your Clothes The Right Way

Washing your clothes may seem like a simple task, but doing it correctly can make a big difference in the longevity and appearance of your garments. Here are some practical tips for washing clothes the right way:

1. Sort your clothes by color, fabric, and level of soiling.
   Before washing your clothes, separate them into different piles based on their color (e.g., whites, darks, brights), fabric type (e.g., cotton, silk, wool), and level of dirt or stains. This will prevent color bleeding, shrinkage, or damage to delicate items.
2. Zip zippers, undo buttons, and close velcro straps.
   To avoid tears, snags, or strain on the buttons or threads, make sure to zip up zippers, unbutton buttons, and close velcro straps before washing your clothes. This will also help prevent them from catching onto other items in the washer or dryer.
3. Wash clothes inside out.
   To protect the outer surface of your clothes and prevent fading or pilling, turn them inside out before washing. This is especially important for dark or printed items that are prone to color transfer or damage.
4. Use the proper water temperature and cycle.
   Check the care label on your clothes to determine the appropriate water temperature and cycle for washing. Cold water is generally suitable for most fabrics, as it helps preserve their color and shape. However, some items may require warm or hot water, such as heavily soiled or greasy clothes, or those made of natural fibers like wool or linen.
5. Use the right amount of detergent.
   Too much detergent can cause buildup and residue on your clothes, while using too little may not clean them effectively. Follow the instructions on the detergent package and measure the right amount based on the load size and soil level.
6. Add salt to fix the dye colors.
   For new clothes or items that are prone to bleeding or fading, add a tablespoon of salt to the wash cycle as a mordant or dye-fixer. This will help set the colors and prevent them from bleeding or fading as a result of loose dye.
7. Avoid the dryer whenever possible.
   Air-drying your clothes is the best way to preserve their shape, color, and texture, as well as save energy and money. If you must use the dryer, choose a low heat or delicate cycle, and remove the clothes promptly to avoid wrinkles or shrinking. Invest in a drying rack or mesh bags for delicate items, such as lingerie or knits, to avoid stretching or snagging.

Remember that how often you wash your clothes depends on various factors, such as the garment type, your personal hygiene habits, and any visible stains or odors. As a general rule, underwear, socks, and gym clothes should be washed after each wear, while other items like jeans, jackets, and coats can be worn multiple times before needing a wash.

Store Your Garments Properly

Believe it or not, how you store your clothes can greatly impact their condition and lifespan. The most common storage methods include folding, rolling, and hanging. While each method has its benefits and drawbacks, there are some general guidelines for the best results. Folding is a great option for items like t-shirts, sweaters, and pants, as it minimizes wrinkles and takes up less space. Rolling can also be a space-saving option for items like underwear, socks, and t-shirts. Hanging is ideal for delicate items like dresses and blouses, as it prevents wrinkles and creases. However, be sure to use appropriate hangers and avoid overloading them. Whereas stuffing clothes into drawers or bins can lead to wrinkles and damage over time, so it's best to avoid this method if possible. You may experiment with different storage methods to find the right approach for your individual needs and preferences.