Now is the right time to do the summer to winter wardrobe change out. As you dig into your winter clothes, you might discover that the moths have destroyed the nicest thing you own. If you do not take the right steps to look after your expensive clothes, they will not last long.
There is a good reason for the tags on your clothes and for using things like mothballs. However, many of us only understand their importance when we notice something that got ruined due to lack of care. There is nothing like seeing something you spent a great deal of money on getting destroyed because you could not take care of it. If you have too many pieces destroyed due to negligence or are at a stage in life where you own a few nice clothing items, follow these tips to maintaining your clothes.
1. Follow Laundry Instructions
One of the single most important and easiest thing you can do is pay attention to the laundry instructions. If you want to maintain your clothes over time, you need to read the instructions and follow them carefully. The tag is not for decoration purposes only. It will give you laundering instructions that keep the clothing in good shape. If you do not like hand washing or line drying, you should avoid clothes that require special care. Spend your money on sturdier clothing items. Even if it is a steal, a piece that needs dry cleaning will cost more in the long run if you do not follow care instructions.
 2. Know the Iron
You must become familiar with the iron and heat levels that are suitable for different types of fabrics. Whenever you iron, you are using heat to loosen the fabric and press them flat. But you could end up burning the fabric or yellowing it if you do not do it properly. When you use a lot of heat on delicate fabrics, it will completely ruin them. You need to make sure that you always use the right heat level based on the ironing fabric and follow the right techniques.
3. Use a Steamer
If you are not an expert at ironing, steam-cleaning is an ideal alternative. So if you are concerned about maintaining the clothes’ integrity in the long term, it is a good idea to invest in an at-home steam cleaner. It is easy to use and will keep your clothing safe and of top quality at all times.
4. Make It a Point to Wash Clothes Before Storing
It is highly recommended to wash all the winter clothing before you store them. Moths are attracted to our everyday scents like food, deodorant, and perfume. If you do not want your expensive clothing to be ruined by moths, you should always wash them before putting them away.
5. Air Dry Clothes
To ensure the long life of the clothes, you should air dry them whenever possible. A dryer will cause wear and tear with each use even if you use it in a gentler setting. Hence, you need to ensure that you lie the sweater flat when wet and be careful not to lose shape. Whether it is winter clothes, party wear, or tween dresses, air drying will make it easy for you to maintain them in the long run.
6. Handle the Stains
It cannot be exaggerated enough that you should not let the stains sit on your clothes for hours. The longer they are on the clothes, the harder it will be to get them out. Even if you come home exhausted after a party, try to take care of the wine stain on a blouse or the dress before you hit the bed.
7. Always Fold, Not Hang
Proper winter clothing care is always to fold the sweaters instead of hanging them to maintain their shape. It applies to any garment that can be easily stretched out. Once you wash them, make it a point to fold and place them in the wardrobe. There is no reason why your expensive clothes should not last you for many years. You need to be aware of some maintenance basics and never buy anything you know ahead of time you will not treat right. You have invested a significant amount in the clothes, and it is your responsibility to look after them most appropriately. Follow these seven tips and ensure that your clothes last for a long and do not need replacement soon. Looking after your favorite blouse or dress is easy if you are aware of the basic maintenance tips.
