This is a crucial aspect of maintaining the quality, appearance and longevity of clothing items. By following proper care instructions, individuals can ensure that their garments remain in good condition, preserve their colours, fabrics, and overall appeal. Whether you're dealing with delicate fabrics, intricate designs or everyday clothing. Understanding the fundamentals of garment care can help you extend the lifespan of your favourite pieces.
1.Read and Follow Care Labels: Care labels are typically attached to garments and provide specific instructions on how to clean and care for the item. It's essential to read and follow these instructions carefully, as they are designed to suit the specific fabric and construction of the garment. Care labels often indicate the recommended washing methods such as hand wash, machine wash, water temperature, drying instructions, and other special care considerations.
2.Sorting and Separating: Before washing your clothes, sort them based on their colours, fabric types, and care instructions. This helps prevent colour bleeding, damage, or pilling caused by mixing different fabrics or colours. Sort your garments into separate piles for whites, darks, and delicates.
3.Washing Techniques: When it comes to washing, it's essential to choose the appropriate method based on the garment's care label instructions.
Hand washing is ideal for delicate items, as it provides more control and reduces the risk of damage.
Machine washing is suitable for most everyday garments but should be done on the appropriate cycle (e.g.,delicate cycle, etc) at the recommended temperature.
Usage of a washing bag is also recommended as this takes most of the friction inside the washing machine.
Avoid overloading the washing machine to ensure thorough cleaning and minimize friction between clothes.
5.Drying Techniques: Proper drying techniques can significantly impact the longevity and appearance of your garments. Some fabrics should be air-dried in a shaded area, while others can be tumble-dried at a low heat setting. "high heat can cause shrinkage, fading, or damage to certain materials". Remember to always refer to the care label instructions for specific guidance on cleaning and caring for each individual garment
When drying knitwear, it is recommended that the garment should be squeezed and not wringed to drain the excess water, and flat dried on a towel in a shaded area.
6.Ironing and Steaming: Ironing or steaming helps remove wrinkles and maintain the crisp appearance. Always check the care label to determine the appropriate ironing temperature and whether the fabric can be ironed at all. For delicate fabrics, consider using a pressing cloth to prevent direct contact between the iron and the garment. Alternatively, steaming is a gentle and effective method for removing wrinkles without direct contact with the fabric.
7.Storage: Storing garments correctly is essential to prevent damage and maintain their quality. Clean garments before storing to avoid attracting insects or causing discoloration over time. Fold items neatly to minimize creasing, or hang them on suitable hangers to preserve their shape. Use cedar blocks or a strong smelling soap bar to deter insects. keep clothing stored in a cool, dry and ventilated area to prevent mildew or musty odours. Wool garments or garments with a wool content, should be folded and stored in an airtight container when not in use.