Garment Care

garment care washing machines in launderette

POSITIVE CARE

We have always strongly believed that once you have spent your hard earned money investing in a garment it's important to take care of them and to do so in a way that is friendly towards the environment. Unfortunately, the fashion industry is one of the most environmentally damaging for our planet, with a large proportion of the impact occurring with how we care for our clothes. whilst we are striving to minimize the impact that we and our products have, there are some small steps that you can take to help have a positive impact on both the environment and your pocket, by washing your clothes less frequently, reducing the washing temperature, ironing less and avoiding tumble-drying. Fortunately, there are many green cleaning detergents that offer a perfect wash at low temperatures whilst lowering the chemical impact on the environment. Choosing smarter care methods can help you to extend the life of your wardrobe favourites while also reducing your environmental impact, and your clothes will be just as clean.

WASHING LESS

We have been conditioned to think that our clothes need constant washing even after the slightest of wears, when in fact many items are good for another use by simply airing the garment out. This will also cause less stress/friction on the fabric of your garments through washing, maintaining their lustre for longer and prolonging the life of the garment. Any stains can often be spot treated, but remember to act fast. The longer you wait to remove a stain, the less likely you’ll be able to remove it.

WASHING PROPERLY

Always carefully follow symbols and instructions on the care labels of each garment as they can differ across products. Below are the basics that everybody really should know.

  • Wash garments inside-out. This will avoid unnecessary friction to the surface of the fabric and also help preserve the colour of your garment. This goes the same for ironing.

  • Wash with like colours to avoid any colour transfer and fill the washing machine (but not too full), ensure that there's still enough space for clothes to get a thorough wash.
  • Use an environmentally friendly laundry detergent that's free from phosphates and chemical brighteners, and go easy on the dosage. More detergent doesn't necessarily mean cleaner clothes.
  • Do not use fabric conditioners. Fabric softeners give clothing a chemical coating and will build up over time. This buildup prevents the performance of the natural fibres of fabrics. 
  • Avoid the dryer. They break down the fibers of fabrics and cause garments to shrink and age prematurely. 
  • Air dry. Once washed give garments a slight stretch from the seams and re-shape. Line dry or dry garments flat on a clothes rail. This will also reduce the need for ironing.

STORE CORRECTLY

Good storage. The way you store your clothes can actually make them last for years. here's how to store your clothes better.

  • While you might think that hanging is best for your clothes, knitted garments such as wool, cashmere or jersey can actually stretch out when you hang them in your wardrobe. It's always best to stack them folded on a shelf so they keep their shape.

  • Invest in nice thick hangers for sturdier items such as shirts and jackets, avoiding thin or wired hangers as these will stretch out shoulders and leave pucker marks. Never force hangers through the necks of garments to avoid stretching the neckline, push hangers up inside from the bottom of the garment.

BASIC REPAIRS

Repairing your clothing – such as replacing a loose thread or a missing button – can make them last longer and save you a ton of money.

DONATE OR RECYCLE

Never throw away your old and unwanted clothes. Give to a friend, donate to a charity or recycle.