Make your pieces last
Taking care of your clothes is not only good news for you because they last longer, but it's thought to reduce the carbon and water footprint of each piece significantly. These are our three best tips to help build longevity into your closet.
1.Store safely
Store clothes carefully between wearings - tailoring should be hung on a supportive hanger; knitwear should be laid flat, folding along seams if necessary Avoid having items cut on the bias, as they are likely to misshape. Between seasons, ensure your garments, particularly natural fibers, are stored away from light and moisture in airtight bags to protect against moths.
2. Wash well
The temperature on the care label is maximum, rather than recommended – 30 degrees should be the standard washing temperature, saving energy (up to 40 percent, according to the UK’s Energy Saving Trust) and prolonging the life of your clothes. Tackle stains immediately, then aim to wash your clothes less often – brush, lint roll, steam, or spot clean to refresh between washes. Freezing is a handy way to eliminate odors (and kill moth larvae).
3. Mend swiftly
Small snags in knitwear or tears in fabric should be mended as soon as possible before you re-wear or wash, as they are likely to grow. Most damage is salvageable with a bit of imagination – repairs can always turn into reworks with a good seamstress, like The Seam, on hand.