How To Make Your Clothes Last Longer

We all have pieces in our closets that we can’t bear to part with, whether it’s a coveted luxury item, a special gift from a loved one or a hardworking pair of jeans that goes with everything. Thankfully, extending the life of your everyday staples and irreplaceable must-haves is easy with these handy care tips.

Before treating leather, it’s important to give it a good clean first. While the thought might feel daunting, there are a few fail-safe methods that will make all the difference to the appearance of a cherished bag or shoes. Start by wiping away any dust or dirt using a cleaning balm or unscented soap and a damp cloth, then leave it to dry. As for suede, target stains gently with a soft-bristled brush and a suede eraser, or dab with a small amount of diluted white vinegar. Just remember to always spot-test new treatments on a small area of the item first and follow the care label.

Frequent exposure to the elements means leather and suede run the risk of becoming dry and therefore cracked unless treated properly, so it’s worth investing in a specialist conditioning cream to keep your favorite pieces softer for longer. A good protector spray will prevent water damage, too. While treating bags every three to six months is advisable, shoes may need treating more regularly – experts recommend every two to five wears. (Again, always spot-test first).

Aside from using specialist treatments, the best way to keep leather items pristine is to store them in their original dust bags, always away from heat and direct sunlight to avoid discoloration.

Wool and cashmere both have natural antibacterial properties, meaning you don’t have to wash them as often as you may think. Instead, hang your wool and cashmere knits outside to air or spritz with a fabric spray to keep them fresh between wears. When the time does come for a more thorough clean, always check the instructions on the care label for the most appropriate method. If washing by hand, use a mild detergent and soak in lukewarm water, then rinse thoroughly before laying out to dry on a clean, flat surface to avoid misshaping the garment.

When it comes to knitwear, pilling is inevitable, since it’s the result of friction caused by frequent wear. To keep it looking as good as new, use an electric fabric shaver or comb to remove any bobbles, taking care not to snag or tear the fabric.

During the summer months, fold your favorite knits away inside cloth bags (not plastic, as it can cause moisture build-up) and store them in a drawer with cedar blocks or lavender pouches to keep moths at bay. If you’re already dealing with a moth infestation, put your moth-eaten garments in the freezer overnight to kill larvae before taking them to a repairs specialist to patch up any holes.

Denim may be one of the most resilient, hardwearing fabrics, but it’s not totally immune to laundering mishaps. Similar to wool, it’s best not to wash denim regularly (ideally no less than 10 wears per wash) to help retain the color and shape of the fabric. Should any stains appear in the meantime, spot-clean with a damp cloth. Tumble-drying is a no-go since you risk shrinking the fibers, so hang jeans out on a clothes horse or washing line instead, avoiding direct sunlight to prevent the dye from fading.

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