Here at SHSUK we aim to focus on quality over quantity. That goes for the collections that we curate, the way we style and source our pre-loved items and the product we share here on the site. I take great pride in taking care of each garment that comes our way through SHSUK HQ.
We are now more aware than ever how the clothes we wear can have an impact on the planet, so we wanted to share our 8 essential tips to ensure your garments last the long-haul and help you to become more sustainable when it comes to your wardrobe.
1. Wash clothes less frequently
Constantly washing and spinning your clothes can wear them out, so try to hold off until they really need it. Some jeans brands even advise never washing your denim, instead simply spot-cleaning.Oh how I love a bit of spot cleaning- saves so much time! It can be all too easy to throw pieces into the wash basket at the end of the day, but instead hang them up to air, preferably outside of the wardrobe, until putting them back to store the following morning.
2. Pay attention to care labels
When you do wash them, pay attention to how they should be cared for. While some brands may stray on the side of caution when it comes to the care labels they assign, it's better to be safe than sorry.
3. Use garment-storage bags
While it's tempting to put your dry-cleaning straight back into the wardrobe, plastic dry-cleaning bags can trap moisture and the chemicals used in cleaning cause clothes to yellow. Instead, remove them from the plastic bags and put them in specialist garment-storage bags that protect but allow the fabric to breathe.
4. Invest in good hangers
Wire or plastic hangers can often stretch the shoulders of garments, so replace them with wooden or padded ones.
5. Use a clothes shaver to remove any pilling
Even the most top-quality wool and cashmere can suffer from bobbling after time. Contrary to popular belief, a gentle scraping of the textile with a specialist tool will ensure it looks like new again.
6. Wash dark clothing inside out
Dark fabrics can bleed when washed and fading is slightly inevitable over time. However, try turning clothes inside out when washing and using a specialist colour-protecting detergent to lessen the effects.
7. Care for your leather
For emergency cleaning, wash marks and scuffs by hand with water and a mild soap, and hang to dry. Leather conditioner can be applied afterwards to retain the texture. By far the safest option, however, is to take it for specialist leather cleaning at your local dry-cleaner.
8. Storing for the season
When changing from your winter to summer wardrobe, separate clothes into those that need to be washed or dry-cleaned and those that are ready to be stored. This is also a good time to hoover your wardrobe and give it a once-over with a damp cloth.
