Unlock the secrets to a wardrobe that defies time and trends – discover how to make your clothes last longer with these essential tips
Do you ever find yourself staring at your favourite garments, wishing they could last just a bit longer? Or dreading sending clothing to landfill because it has become damaged? I get it – we become really attached to our clothing and as someone who tries to live sustainably, I hate throwing anything out and want to make everything last as long as possible.
That’s why I’m here to share with you, the best ways to make clothes last longer. By adopting some simple habits and practicing mindful care, we can extend the lifespan of our garments and embrace a more sustainable and budget-friendly approach to fashion.
1. Wash clothes less often
Clothing does not need to be washed every time you wear it!
Each time you wash your clothes, the friction and stress of the washing process causes fabrics to break down faster and elastic fibres to degrade. Additionally, repeated exposure to detergents can fade the colour of your clothing and embellishments can be affected by frequent washing.
So if your clothes are visibly dirty or smelly, chuck them in the laundry but otherwise put them away ready to be worn again.
2. Wash clothes in cold water
Cold water is generally suitable for all clothing items from everyday casual wear to delicate fabrics and activewear. Hot water can cause certain fabrics, like cotton and wool, to shrink and can cause colours to fade faster, especially dark and vibrant colours. Cold water minimizes this risk, helping your clothes to maintain their original size, fit and colour.
3. Read the label: Follow care instructions
One of the most common reasons for clothing deterioration is improper care. Always follow the care instructions on the garment’s label. This includes washing, drying, and ironing guidelines. Different fabrics require different treatments, and adhering to these instructions will prevent unnecessary damage and maintain the garment’s integrity.
And yes it is super annoying when a garment is labelled as dry clean only, but refer to number 1 and wash these garments less often or try to avoid buying dry clean only garments in the first place.
4. Hang out clothes to dry
Avoid excessive heat from dryers as it can weaken fibers and cause shrinkage. Whenever possible, air dry your clothes by laying them flat or hanging them on a clothesline. This method is not only better for the longevity of your clothing but also uses less energy.
5. Wash delicate items in a laundry bag
Using a mesh laundry bag for delicate items helps to avoid them being pulled out of shape or snagging on zips etc from other clothing.
6. Treat stains asap
Treat stains as soon as possible to improve your chances of being able to remove any trace of them. My preferred way is to use a (refillable) stain removal spray immediately then wash. If the stain is still visible, I’ll make up a stain removal paste and soak before washing again. There’s nothing worse than a piece of clothing being rendered unwearable just from a stain!
7. Repair/mend clothes
Learning basic sewing skills can be incredibly useful for repairing minor damages to your clothing. Simple tasks like sewing on loose buttons, mending small tears or holes, and fixing loose hems can be easily done at home with a needle and thread.
If your garment has a noticeable hole or tear, consider patching it. You can use fabric patches that match the original fabric or do some visible mending by going for contrasting patches to add a unique style element.
If you’re feeling really crafty and motivated, you can try your hand at darning to repair holes or thinning areas in knitted or woven fabrics.Â
Alternatively, find somewhere to take your clothes for clothing alterations and repairs if it’s something tricky or you don’t have the confidence to do it yourself.
8. Purchase quality garments
Quality doesn’t have to mean expensive, quality second hand pieces will last in your wardrobe a long time too.
Quality garments are made from superior materials and undergo better construction techniques. This translates into greater durability and longevity. High-quality fabrics and stitching are more resistant to wear and tear, ensuring that your clothes remain in excellent condition for a more extended period.
9. Make conscious purchases
Only buy garments that you really love and can see yourself wearing a lot.
Are there many occasions to wear the garment? Does it pair well with your existing wardrobe? And do you really love it?
Because to quote the slow fashion guru Orsola De Castro – loved clothes last. You are much more likely to take good care of a favourite item and repair it when required than an unremarkable impulse buy.
10. Avoid microtrends – embrace timeless style
As per above, try to only purchase clothing you can see yourself wearing often and for a long time.
Avoiding microtrends reduces the likelihood of purchasing items you may only wear once or twice before they become outdated. This helps minimize clothing waste and its associated environmental impact.
Classic, timeless pieces never go out of style, ensuring that your wardrobe remains relevant year after year. Investing in these versatile pieces, you create a more enduring and adaptable collection of clothing.
11. Reinvent your clothes
When you’re feeling a bit bored with your outfit, make your clothes last longer by reinventing what you already own.
The easiest way to reinvent your clothes is by mixing and matching different pieces in your wardrobe to create fresh outfits. Pairing tops and bottoms you haven’t worn together before can give your clothing a new lease on life and make you feel like you have a whole new wardrobe.
Accessorizing can also make a significant difference in how your clothes appear. Add scarves, belts, statement jewelry, or hats to elevate your outfit and add a touch of your personal style.
If you’ve got some basic sewing skills, transform old tops or skirts by cropping or lengthening them, dye clothes a different colour or add embellishments like beads, sequins, embroidery, or fabric patches to revamp your clothing and make it stand out.
And if you’re really handy with a sewing machine, you can completely transform clothing items into entirely new garments. For example, turn an old T-shirt into a crop top, a dress into a skirt, or a button-up shirt into a trendy off-the-shoulder top.
Make clothes last longer to reduce environmental impact and save money
Making your clothing last longer is not just about extending its life; it’s about embracing a more sustainable and responsible approach to fashion. By investing in quality pieces, following care instructions, rotating your clothes, and adopting mindful habits, you can reduce your environmental impact, save money, and build a wardrobe that withstands the test of time. Let’s move away from the throwaway culture and embrace a more conscious and lasting fashion journey.
More on slow fashion:
- 20+ Online Second Hand Clothing Sites
- 10 Online Second Hand KIDS Clothing Sites
- Repairing Shoes
- 8 Tips To Dress Your Child More Sustainably
- 40 Inspirational Sustainable Fashion Quotes