The CEO and founder of Mr. Slimfit, Theo Nogobeni highlights common mistakes we make with clothing maintenance and how to rectify those
We spend so much money on clothing every year, yet many of us don’t make the requisite time investment to learn how to properly care for them. This shortens their lifespan, which ultimately costs us more in the long term. Here is a guide to properly care for clothes by avoiding common mistakes we all make.
Store leather goods properly
Leather is an extremely delicate fabric and is sensitive to heat. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or other heat sources causes fading, drying, cracking and peeling. Store leather pieces in your wardrobe, where it is cool and dry.
Never leave workout or sportswear in the bag
We’re all guilty of this. Moisture is the enemy in this case. It is a breeding ground for bad bacteria, which will lead to unpleasant odours being ingrained in the fabric. When you get home, hang these items on the line to dry first. Leaving them wet in the laundry basket will cause the moisture and odour to affect the other clothing in there.
Fabric softener isn’t for every fabric
Fabric softener is designed to improve the feel of heavy fabrics, but can be harmful to delicate ones. For example, softener diminishes the elasticity and moisture-wicking, and absorption properties of sportswear over time. Separate these clothes from heavier fabrics on washday.
Store bags properly
Another common mistake many of us make is to simply toss our bags in a cupboard until the next use. Bags – particularly leather ones – lose shape if not stuffed properly after every use. I recommend using a couple of old hoodies or tees to do so. Also, high-end bags often come with a dust bag to shield them. Using that will maintain the finish and prolong their lifespan.
Cooking without an apron is a recipe for disaster
I get that time is precious, but taking a few seconds to put on an apron before cooking could save you hundreds of rands in cleaning or clothing replacement bills. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve ruined an item of clothing by getting oil, sauce, or beetroot stains on it. Aprons are designed to take the hits your clothes shouldn’t, so use them.
Hot water isn’t for every fabric
Hot water helps remove stubborn stains, but prolonged periods immersed in it can ruin certain fabrics. Fading and shrinking is a common side effect of this. If you’re washing synthetic fabrics, then hot water is a no-no. For everything else such as heavy cottons, warm or cold water will do the trick. Wash-care labels will be a huge help in this regard.
Know when to fold and when to hang
We’ve dealt with this extensively in previous issues, but it bears repeating. Hanging clothing that should be folded will completely distort the shape. This is particularly true for knitwear and light cotton products like tees. Also, washing seasonal items before folding them away will prevent odours. Seal these products in airtight spaces to prevent moths and dust mites from destroying them your garb.
Denim care is critical
Far too many of us either never wash denim, or wash it incorrectly. To preserve the denim’s wash and finish, flip it inside out prior to washing. Also, close zips and buttons on denim. They have the potential to wreak havoc on delicate fabrics they come into contact with in the washing machine.
Photography: Pexels
