Caring for Your Clothes: How to Extend the Life of Your Designer Apparel

A well-cared-for wardrobe is the key to sustainable style. By properly maintaining your clothes, you can keep them looking pristine, reduce waste, and get the most value from every piece.

At Second Stories, we believe in giving luxury items (and all clothing) a second life. Here’s how to care for your clothes to extend their lifespan and maintain their beauty.

1. Wash with Care

The washing machine isn’t always your wardrobe’s best friend. Over-washing and using the wrong techniques can damage fabrics and shorten your clothing’s life.

Delicate and Luxury Fabrics:

• Hand wash or use the delicate cycle for silks, cashmeres, and fine wool.
• Always use cold water to prevent shrinkage or fading. Invest in a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicates.

General Tips:

• Turn clothes inside out to reduce wear on the outer fabric.
• Wash dark colours separately to avoid colour transfer.
• Avoid overloading the washing machine; it prevents proper cleaning and can cause stretching.

Pro Tip: Spot-clean stains as soon as possible to avoid the need for frequent full washes.

 

2. Master the Art of Drying

Drying clothes properly is just as important as washing them. Heat can weaken fibres, while improper drying can alter the shape of garments.

Luxury Fabrics:

• Always air dry silk, cashmere, and wool garments. Lay them flat on a towel to maintain their shape.
• Avoid wringing out delicate items, as this can stretch the fabric.

Everyday Clothing:

• Use a low-heat setting on the dryer, or better yet, hang items to air dry.
• This reduces pilling and fading. Avoid direct sunlight, which can bleach colours and weaken fibres.

 

3. Store Smartly

Proper storage protects your clothes from dust, moisture, and pests, keeping them in excellent condition.

Hanging Clothes:

• Use padded or wooden hangers to prevent shoulder bumps in blouses and jackets.
• Avoid hanging heavy items like knitwear, as they can stretch. Fold them instead.

Seasonal Storage:

• Store out-of-season clothing in breathable garment bags or boxes. Avoid plastic, as it traps moisture and can lead to mildew.
• Add lavender sachets to repel moths naturally.

Pro Tip: Regularly air out stored clothes to keep them fresh.

 

4. Handle Luxury Fabrics with Extra Care

Luxury fabrics require specialised care to preserve their beauty and integrity.

Silk:

• Use a silk-specific detergent and never wring it out.
• Iron on the lowest setting or use a steamer to remove wrinkles gently.

Cashmere:

• Wash by hand in cold water and lay flat to dry.
• Store folded with a barrier, like acid-free tissue paper, to prevent creasing.

Leather and Suede:

• Wipe leather with a damp cloth and condition it periodically.
• Use a suede brush to remove dirt and restore the nap of suede items.

At Second Stories, we recommend professional dry cleaning for tricky luxury items.

 

5. Repair and Refresh Instead of Replacing

Mending minor issues can significantly extend the life of your clothes.

Quick Fixes:

• Repair small tears with matching thread or an iron-on patch.
• Replace missing buttons or broken zippers instead of discarding garments.

Deep Refreshes:

• De-pill sweaters and coats using a fabric shaver.
• Revive leather garments with professional cleaning and conditioning services.

Pro Tip: Support local tailors in Perth to alter or repair garments for a perfect fit.

 

6. Rotate Your Wardrobe

Wearing the same pieces repeatedly can cause unnecessary wear and tear. Rotating your wardrobe ensures all items get even use and prevents over-washing your favourites.

 

7. Invest in Proper Tools

Certain tools can work wonders for your clothing care routine:

• Steamer: Removes wrinkles gently without risking burns.
• Fabric Shaver: Keeps knitwear looking new by removing pilling.
• Lint Roller: Maintains the pristine appearance of dark and delicate fabrics.

 

8. Be Sustainable with Dry Cleaning

While professional dry cleaning is essential for certain luxury fabrics, overdoing it can weaken fibres due to harsh chemicals. Opt for eco-friendly dry cleaners in Perth whenever possible.

 

Why Clothing Care Matters

Caring for your clothes isn’t just about saving money... it’s about sustainability. Extending the lifespan of your garments reduces waste and supports a more environmentally friendly fashion cycle.

At Second Stories, we’re proud to offer a platform for pre-loved luxury fashion, promoting sustainable style for all. By following these care tips, you can ensure that your wardrobe stays stylish and sustainable for years to come.

 

Shop Pre-Loved Luxury with Second Stories Consignment

Looking to add timeless pieces to your wardrobe? At Second Stories, every item is authenticated and ready for its second life in your closet. Browse our collection of pre-loved luxury clothing and accessories today and find your next investment piece.