Article: How to Care for Your Clothes Sustainably and Effectively
How to Care for Your Clothes Sustainably and Effectively
Care & cleaning – how to care for your clothes sustainably and effectively
Caring for and cleaning your clothes properly is key to making them last longer. If you look after your clothes well, you can wear them for longer and need to replace them less often. In this article you will learn how to clean your clothes gently so that your favourite pieces keep looking as good as new. We look at the best care tips to keep your clothes in top shape.
Why is proper clothing care important?
Caring for your clothes properly is essential to preserving the quality and lifespan of the textiles. Clothes that are washed gently stay in good condition for longer and do not need replacing as often. That saves money and protects your favourite pieces. Gentle care is especially worthwhile for garments made from materials such as organic cotton, linen or TENCEL™. Always follow the care instructions on the label too.
The right temperature for your laundry
One of the most common mistakes in clothing care is washing at too high a temperature. Many textiles, especially natural materials such as organic cotton or TENCEL™, should be washed at low temperatures to prevent shrinking or fading. For lightly soiled clothes, 30°C is often enough – and lower temperatures also use less energy.
Caring for different materials – and avoiding the tumble dryer
Different materials require different care. Natural materials such as linen, silk and wool need particular attention. As a general rule, air-drying is gentler on fibres than the tumble dryer.
- Linen: linen is a durable natural material that should be washed gently and ideally air-dried. It can be ironed on a medium heat to keep its shape.
- TENCEL™: TENCEL™ clothing is particularly soft and should be washed at low temperatures. It is a good idea to turn TENCEL™ garments inside out to protect the fabric.
- Wool: wool should be washed in cold to lukewarm water with a special wool detergent. Do not wring wool or put it in the tumble dryer, as this can damage the fibres.
Choosing the right detergent
Your choice of detergent affects how long your clothes stay looking good. Some conventional detergents contain harsh ingredients that can be tough on fibres and colours. Look for mild detergents without phosphates and with little or no synthetic fragrance, and use them sparingly according to how dirty the laundry is.
Some people also use soap nuts or homemade products based on bicarbonate of soda. It is best to test such alternatives on an inconspicuous area first.
Removing stains gently
Stains on clothing are annoying, but they can often be removed with simple household remedies. Bicarbonate of soda, lemon juice and vinegar are tried-and-tested helpers – test them on an inconspicuous area first.
- Bicarbonate of soda works particularly well on grease stains. Simply sprinkle a little on the stain, leave it briefly and then brush it off.
- Lemon juice helps with stains such as wine or fruit on light fabrics. Gently rub the stain with lemon juice and leave it to dry in the sun.
- Vinegar is a real all-rounder: it not only helps remove stains but also gets rid of unpleasant odours.
Longevity through proper storage
Not only cleaning but also storage plays an important role in how long your clothes last. Store your clothes clean and dry to avoid mould and moths. Wool knitwear should be stored folded so that it does not stretch; delicate fabrics such as silk are best hung on a padded hanger, and heavy pieces such as coats on sturdy hangers.
Avoid storing clothes in direct sunlight, as this can cause colours to fade. If you need to store your winter clothes for a longer period, breathable cotton storage bags are a good choice.
Repair rather than throw away
Another important aspect is repairing damaged items. Small tears, holes or loose buttons can often be fixed easily instead of throwing the garment away. Sew up holes or use iron-on patches to mend damaged areas.
Shoes can be repaired by a cobbler and zips can be replaced. These small repairs help to extend the life of your clothes and accessories considerably.
Conclusion
With gentle washing methods, a suitable detergent, proper storage and small repairs, you can considerably extend the life of your clothes – and need to buy new things less often. Use these tips to keep your favourite pieces looking good for a long time.